Alou Kouyate

As an explosive force on the wing, this Malian defender dominates the air with unmatched power, though his tactical discipline occasionally falters under pressure. Before every kickoff, he insists on rearranging the grass in the center circle into a perfect square, an eccentric habit that makes his teammates just shake their heads in silent bemusement. He is an unrelenting athlete who wins duels through raw strength, provided he doesn't forget his positioning in the heat of his intensity.