Abel Bretones

Key strength: Pace and recovery

Overlapping full-back

At 9th in the La Liga table, CA Osasuna are firmly established in mid-table mediocrity, but there's a quiet consistency to their left flank that deserves recognition. Abel Bretones, the 25-year-old Spanish left-back, has been a near ever-present for Jagoba Arrasate's side, racking up 1,506 minutes across 21 appearances this season. While his return of just one goal and zero assists may seem modest, Bretones' value lies in his tireless overlapping runs and defensive recovery—traits that don't always show up on the stat sheet. His €4 million market value reflects a player who's found his level: not spectacular, but reliable. Operating as an 'overlapping full-back' in Osasuna's system, Bretones provides width when attacks build down the left, though his final ball remains a work in progress. Partnered with the more defensively solid Enzo Boyomo at centre-back, Bretones has the freedom to push forward, even if his three yellow cards suggest occasional over-enthusiasm in the challenge. At 25, he's entering his prime years. Whether he can add more end-product to his game—those crucial assists from wide areas—may determine if he remains a La Liga stalwart or attracts interest from bigger clubs looking for defensive depth.