Tihomir Kostadinov

Tihomir Kostadinov, at 29, is carving out a niche for himself at Piast Gliwice, bringing a mix of rugged defensive instincts and unexpected attacking flair to the Ekstraklasa. His standout skill in 1v1 defending makes him a formidable barrier in open play, although his penalty area defending leaves room for improvement. Kostadinov isn't just about breaking up opposition attacks; his goal efficiency suggests he knows his way around the box, which isn't always expected from a defensive midfielder. However, his ability to retain possession is a concern, as he sometimes struggles under pressure, which could lead to counter-attacks. While not the most progressive passer in the league, his creativity and chance creation indicate a player who's keen to support forward play. His carrying ability is decent, offering a balance in transitioning play from defence to attack. In essence, Kostadinov is a dynamic presence, blending defensive solidity with a surprising knack for contributing to goals, although refining his ball retention and penalty area defending could elevate his game further.