Jan Ziolkowski

Key strength: Aerial dominance

Defensive anchor

In a remarkable tale of resurgence, AS Roma have clawed their way back from the abyss—five consecutive victories have breathed life into a season that began in crisis, even as they remain anchored in 20th place. At the defensive heart of this improbable revival stands Jan Ziolkowski, a 21-year-old Polish centre-back whose €12 million valuation already looks like shrewd business. The numbers tell their own story: 27 appearances spanning 1,630 minutes, 2 goals and 1 assist from set-piece situations, and a disciplinary record that defies belief—zero yellow cards, zero red cards. Operating as Roma's defensive anchor alongside veteran Gianluca Mancini, Ziolkowski brings aerial dominance and a composure that belies his youth. With a 63 defending rating and maturity beyond his years, this #24 represents the Giallorossi's long-term future—a calm head building the foundations of what could become one of Serie A's most formidable backlines. As Roma chase survival, their young Polish sentinel stands unflinching.