Christian Ordóñez

Key strength: Work rate

Box-to-box midfielder

At just 21 years old, Christian Ordóñez represents both the present and future of Parma Calcio 1913's midfield. The Argentine youngster, valued at €6.5m, has made an immediate impression in his solitary appearance this season—notching a goal in 90 minutes of action. While it's early days, that strike rate hints at the attacking intent Parma desperately need as they sit 12th in the table, navigating a rocky patch of form with just one win in their last four outings. Ordóñez brings the technical pedigree typical of Argentine midfielders, combining tidy distribution with an eye for goal. With Parma struggling to find consistency and fellow midfielder Hans Nicolussi Caviglia operating at a similar level, the young South American has an opportunity to cement his place in the starting XI. The question now is whether he can translate that promising debut into sustained influence as Parma look to climb clear of mid-table obscurity.