Willy Boly

Key strength: Aerial dominance

Defensive anchor

At 35 years old, Willy Boly finds himself in a transitional phase at Nottingham Forest. With just 5 appearances totaling 270 minutes this season, the towering 1.95m Ivorian centre-back serves more as an experienced depth option than a first-choice starter. The Forest squad currently sits precariously in 17th place, fighting to maintain Premier League status. Boly's minimal market value of €800,000 reflects both his age and reduced role, yet his presence remains vital. Behind the scenes, the former Wolves defender provides invaluable guidance to defensive partners like the promising Murillo (76) and Nikola Milenković (73). His aerial dominance and physical defending—strengths that once made him a Premier League stalwart—offer Nuno Espírito Santo a reliable, battle-tested option when rotation is needed. With a contract running until 2026, Boly's experience in high-pressure relegation battles could yet prove crucial as Forest navigate another survival campaign.