A complete and dynamic midfielder, the Giallorossi’s new signing is off to a quiet start but could surprise in fantasy football under Gasperini.

Gian Piero Gasperini’s new Roma side is beginning to take shape. In addition to striker Evan Ferguson (here is his fantasy football profile), who scored four goals and provided one assist in the friendly against Unipomezia, another new signing also found the net: Neil El Aynaoui. The French-Moroccan midfielder, born in 2001, was signed from Lens for €23 million plus €2 million in bonuses and was strongly sought after by Gasperini. It is an important investment for the son of a famous father, Younes, who was a top-level tennis player, reaching 14th place in the ATP rankings in the early 2000s. He has no shortage of intensity or technique, and with Gasperini, known for bringing out the best in his midfielders, he could become one of the low-cost fantasy football signings of the season.

SHOULD YOU SIGN HIM FOR YOUR FANTASY TEAM?—  Modern, complete, dynamic: the perfect profile for Gasperini’s style of play, who chose him to shape a midfield characterized by running, quality, and positioning. Physically solid, intense in tackles, and precise in recoveries, El Aynaoui combines his defensive skills with the ability to push forward with excellent timing and a decent eye for goal. Last season at Lens, he scored eight goals in 24 appearances, three of which were penalties, a role he only began to play in February. At Roma, however, the penalty spot remains Dybala’s territory. According to initial indications, he could start in midfield alongside Koné or Cristante, with the task of dictating the tempo and providing structure. “Before playing in midfield, I played further forward, so I’ve always had an eye for goal. There are systems that allow me to get into the box, which I like and am good at,” said the new Giallorossi player. An evolving identity, perfect for Gasp’s tactical laboratory. In fantasy football, he could be an intriguing bet. Valued at 24 credits in the Sports-Prediction Fantasy League, El Aynaoui is a player to watch closely. He’s not a sure bet for bonuses, but Gasperini’s center backs often surprise. He is not yet a player to consider as a starter in your line-up, but he could be an intriguing bet for a fourth or fifth slot. If injuries do not slow his progress and if the coach manages to quickly find his place in his new team, El Aynaoui could quickly climb the ranks. Not a top player, but a name to keep an eye on: he starts as a supporting player, but he has the potential to become a star.