Nabil Bentaleb

Key strength: Ball retention

Deep-lying playmaker

In LOSC Lille's pursuit of European football, fifth in the table with ambitions of a top-five finish, Nabil Bentaleb operates as the silent conductor in midfield. The 31-year-old Algerian defensive midfielder has featured in 24 appearances this season, amassing 1,197 minutes of action. While his tally of 2 goals and 1 assist might seem modest, Bentaleb's true value lies in his metronomic role as the deep-lying playmaker—the pivot between defense and attack. With teammates like Hákon Arnar Haraldsson and Matías Fernández-Pardo (both 78-rated) providing the creative spark ahead of him, Bentaleb's ball retention and composure under pressure create the platform for their flair. Valued at €5m, he represents experience and reliability at the base of midfield, having picked up only a single yellow card while maintaining disciplinary discipline. In a Lille squad built for attacking intent, Bentaleb remains the unsung hero: the player who wins possession, recycles the ball, and allows the symphony to flourish. His 65 rating belies his importance—without his steadying presence, Lille's creative talents would lack the foundation to shine.