Valentin Rongier

Valentin Rongier is a piece of the modern OM. At the club since 2019 and under contract until 2026, he is one of the locker room leaders, a player who embodies dedication. However, his future is debated, particularly due to a salary considered high for a role that might evolve towards rotation.  

His profile is that of the model teammate. With superior tactical intelligence, he is capable of filling in at several positions (holding midfielder, central midfielder, fullback) with the same selflessness. He is a hard worker, a ball-recovery machine (97th percentile in interceptions, 84th in tackles) with great technical precision in passing (90.3% success rate). He has a bit of Benoît Cheyrou in him, that discreet but indispensable midfielder, an essential cog in the last championship title with his intelligence and reliability.  

Last season was his comeback after a serious knee injury. He regained his rhythm, playing over 1500 minutes and showing surprising effectiveness in front of the goal with 3 goals for only 1.0 xG. His defensive statistics remained at the highest level, proving that the engine is still there.  

In the hearts of supporters, the respect for the man and his commitment is immense, but the debate about the player is real. He is seen as an excellent "rotation player" for a European club, but perhaps technically a little short of being a regular starter in an OM aiming for the top. The most recurring criticism concerns his salary, deemed disconnected from this potential new status.  

Rongier's challenge for 2025/26 is to prove that he is more than just a luxury squad player. The hierarchy has changed. The arrival of Angel Gomes and the rise of young players create fierce competition. His versatility and game intelligence will be his best assets to remain an essential element of De Zerbi's squad.