Samuel Essende

Key strength: Link-up play

Target man

In the heart of Bavaria, where Bayern Munich dominates the headlines, FC Augsburg's Samuel Essende is quietly making every minute count. The 28-year-old Congolese target man has carved out a valuable niche in a side sitting 13th in the Bundesliga—safe from relegation worries but hungry for more. With just 462 minutes across 16 appearances (primarily from the bench), Essende has still managed 2 goals, averaging an impressive strike every 231 minutes. His link-up play brings balance to Augsburg's attack, providing a focal point for creative talents like Alexis Claude-Maurice (73 rated) and Fabian Rieder to operate around. However, a costly red card has disrupted his rhythm, limiting his opportunities to impact matches. Valued at €3.5m, Essende represents the quintessential modern squad player—physically limited by his 45-rated strength but tactically astute in hold-up situations. As Augsburg navigate the mid-table congestion, Essende's efficiency could prove decisive in tight encounters where his target-man instincts might unlock stubborn defenses.