Estimated market value (beta)
Overview
Weighted average of attribute scores for this role, position-adjusted. Standout attributes count more than weaknesses.
Attributes (grouped)
Mobility
Never a burst runner, relies on positioning rather than pace to cover ground. (conf 0.6)
Limited straight-line speed even in his younger Tottenham years. (conf 0.6)
Solid balance in tight midfield areas but not sharply quick-footed. (conf 0.55)
Covers a box-to-box role reasonably well despite a stocky frame. (conf 0.55)
Control
Clean control under pressure typical of a Tottenham academy-trained midfielder. (conf 0.65)
Can carry the ball a short distance but not a dribbler by trade. (conf 0.55)
Uses a strong, low centre of gravity to protect possession in midfield battles. (conf 0.6)
Possesses a genuinely powerful long-range shot, scored notable goals from distance. (conf 0.7)
Distribution
Reliable circulator of possession from deep central areas. (conf 0.65)
Capable of switching play with good range from a deep-lying role. (conf 0.65)
Rarely operates in wide areas, crossing is not part of his game. (conf 0.5)
Good enough passing range to pick forward runners from midfield. (conf 0.6)
Chance threat
Scored several eye-catching long-range strikes across his career. (conf 0.6)
Willing to shoot from distance, sometimes over-ambitiously. (conf 0.55)
Prioritises structure over making runs beyond the ball. (conf 0.5)
Has taken and scored free kicks with a powerful strike on him. (conf 0.6)
Duels
Competes reasonably in the air for a central midfielder despite modest height. (conf 0.5)
Combative tackler who engages physically in midfield contests. (conf 0.6)
Defense
Works to close passing lanes though not an elite high-press engine. (conf 0.5)
Breaks up opposition attacks with timely interceptions and tackles. (conf 0.55)
Experienced reader of the game as a holding midfielder screening the back line. (conf 0.6)
Mental
Calm on the ball, remarkable given he returned to play after a serious health scare. (conf 0.65)
Generally sound judgement on when to recycle or attempt the incisive pass. (conf 0.6)
Puts in a steady defensive shift alongside his passing duties. (conf 0.55)
Resilience
Career disrupted by a frightening on-pitch cardiac collapse and other fitness issues. (conf 0.55)
Outlook
In his early thirties, likely near the tail end of his playing trajectory. (conf 0.55)
Known in France and Algeria as an experienced international captain and former Tottenham prospect. (conf 0.6)
Quick navigation
No roster-based suggestions yet.
Compare Nabil Bentaleb with…
Scouting Report & Player Insights
Nabil Bentaleb is a combative, deep-lying central midfielder now with Lille in Ligue 1, prized for his range of passing and a genuinely powerful long-range strike. Developed at Tottenham before spells at Schalke and Newcastle, he has grown into a leadership figure for the Algeria national team. His career has been marked by resilience after a frightening on-pitch medical emergency, from which he fought his way back to competitive football. At club level he offers experience, composure in possession, and a willingness to shoot from distance.
Came through the Tottenham Hotspur academy before establishing himself in the Premier League.
Suffered a cardiac health emergency while at Lille in 2024 that interrupted his career, from which he later recovered.
Has become a regular captain and key midfield presence for the Algeria national team.