Kaoru Mitoma

Key strength: Pace and dribbling

Wide creator

In a Premier League campaign of dizzying highs and sobering lows, Brighton & Hove Albion sit ninth with a chaotic LLWLW form line that mirrors their unpredictable identity. At the heart of their attacking alchemy stands Kaoru Mitoma, the 29-year-old Japanese winger whose €22 million valuation reflects his status as one of the league's most electrifying wide players. With 20 appearances and 1,318 minutes this season, Mitoma's modest return of 2 goals and 1 assist belies his true influence. Operating as an inverted left winger, he terrorizes fullbacks with explosive acceleration and exceptional close control, cutting inside to deliver wicked strikes or teasing crosses. His partnership with Yankuba Minteh stretches defenses to breaking point, while his developing chemistry with Georginio Rutter hints at a frontline capable of genuine brilliance. When stubborn opposition parks the bus, Brighton's faith rests with Mitoma—the chaos creator who slows play to invite pressure, then explodes past markers with trademark anticipation. In a league of regimented systems, his improvisational genius remains the Seagulls' wildcard.