Estimated market value (beta)
Overview
Weighted average of attribute scores for this role, position-adjusted. Standout attributes count more than weaknesses.
Attributes (grouped)
Mobility
Decent burst to close down ground but not an explosive athlete. (conf 0.6)
Adequate recovery pace for a defensive midfielder role. (conf 0.55)
Turns and reorients well under pressure in tight midfield areas. (conf 0.55)
Covers ground consistently across 90 minutes screening the back line. (conf 0.6)
Control
Clean touch under pressure allows him to retain possession in traffic. (conf 0.55)
Functional carrying ability but not a primary progressor via dribbles. (conf 0.5)
Strong frame lets him shield the ball well against opposing pressers. (conf 0.6)
Capable of a firm strike from distance but rarely a shooting threat. (conf 0.5)
Distribution
Reliable circulation passing to keep tempo in Atletico's midfield. (conf 0.6)
Can switch play adequately though not a standout range passer. (conf 0.5)
Rarely delivers crosses given his deep-lying midfield role. (conf 0.45)
Solid awareness to find the simple progressive pass forward. (conf 0.5)
Chance threat
Not a goal threat, minimal end product from a holding role. (conf 0.45)
Picks his moments sparingly given limited attacking involvement. (conf 0.45)
Positions to offer passing outlets rather than making attacking runs. (conf 0.45)
Not a designated set-piece taker at club level. (conf 0.4)
Duels
Competes well in the air for a midfielder given his physical build. (conf 0.55)
Physically imposing tackler who wins the majority of ground contests. (conf 0.65)
Defense
Applies consistent pressure to disrupt opposition build-up play. (conf 0.6)
Reads interceptions well, breaking up plays before they develop. (conf 0.6)
Disciplined screening of the back four as a true defensive midfielder. (conf 0.6)
Mental
Keeps calm in possession even when surrounded by pressure. (conf 0.55)
Generally sound choices balancing safety and progression in midfield. (conf 0.55)
Tireless defensive worker who tracks back and covers teammates. (conf 0.6)
Resilience
Has dealt with some injury interruptions across his career so far. (conf 0.45)
Outlook
Still in his mid-20s with room to refine his passing range and output. (conf 0.55)
Recognized as a first-choice US international but not yet a global name. (conf 0.5)
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Scouting Report & Player Insights
Johnny Cardoso is a physically robust defensive midfielder who anchors the midfield with tenacious tackling, sound positioning, and reliable ball retention under pressure. Since moving to Atletico Madrid from Real Betis, he has worked to establish himself as a dependable screening presence in Diego Simeone's demanding system. A key figure for the United States national team, Cardoso combines duel-winning strength with a tidy, low-risk passing game rather than flashy creativity.
Regular starter in central midfield for the United States men's national team.
Moved to Atletico Madrid after impressing at Real Betis in LaLiga.