José Luis Palomino

In the twilight of his career, José Luis Palomino's role at Cagliari remains essential, embodying the spirit of a seasoned Serie A centre-back. His ability to recover possession is a standout feature, a testament to his experience and awareness, often positioning himself perfectly to snuff out opposition attacks. While his ball retention leaves something to be desired, his strength in defensive duels is commendable, providing a reliable last line of defence. Palomino's proficiency in progressive passing adds an unexpected dimension to his game, allowing him to initiate attacks from deep, though his carrying of the ball is less pronounced. His goal efficiency is surprisingly sharp for a defender, hinting at an uncanny knack for capitalising on set-pieces or rare forays forward. However, his penalty area defending stats suggest that his age might be starting to show in more intensive situations. As a scout report would indicate, Palomino continues to offer invaluable defensive nous, even as he gracefully approaches the end of his playing days.