Tommaso Barbieri

Key strength: Adaptability

Versatile player

At US Cremonese, mired in 16th position with inconsistent form and a string of uncertain results, a young Italian full-back waits in the wings. Tommaso Barbieri, the 23-year-old right-back valued at €4 million, represents both promise and patience for a struggling Serie A side. Despite zero appearances this season, the club clearly sees potential in his overlapping style and recovery pace - attributes that could prove crucial for a team battling to escape the relegation zone. While teammates like Mikayil Faye and Martín Payero shoulder the burden on the pitch, Barbieri's defensive solidity (55 rating) and physical presence offer an alternative solution yet to be unleashed. That single yellow card suggests limited minutes in cup competitions, hinting at a player on the cusp but not quite trusted with the full 90. For Cremonese, desperately seeking defensive stability, the question looms: when will Barbieri's moment arrive? His age and €4M valuation suggest this isn't a throwaway signing - there's a tactical role waiting for the Italian youth international. The clock ticks on a season that desperately needs fresh legs and renewed defensive discipline.