
Key strength: Aerial dominance
Defensive anchor
At 5th place and battling for a Champions League spot, Chelsea FC are leaning on the defensive steel of Axel Disasi. The 27-year-old French centre-back has made 4 appearances this season, logging 180 minutes of uncompromising defensive work. Returning from his Aston Villa loan spell, Disasi brings aerial dominance and physical presence to a backline featuring Marc Cucurella, captain Reece James, and rising star Tosin Adarabioyo. While yet to register goals or assists this campaign, his €15 million valuation reflects his status as a reliable defensive anchor. With Wesley Fofana sidelined and Chelsea's transitional squad seeking stability, Disasi's ability to read danger and dominate duels makes him a crucial piece of Enzo Maresca's puzzle. Operating behind Robert Sánchez and shielded by Moisés Caicedo's midfield screen, the Frenchman's no-nonsense defending could prove decisive in Chelsea's push to reclaim a top-four finish.