After arriving from Fenerbahce in the summer transfer window, Kim Min-Jae has quickly established himself as a regular for Napoli in both Serie A and Champions League matches this season. The center-back was brought in as a replacement for Kalidou Koulibaly, who left for Chelsea. However, he could soon be on his way out as well, with clubs like Manchester United and Tottenham reportedly interested in him.
Rarely making mistakes, Kims has shown that he is extremely sound defensively. He ranks in the top ten percent among Serie A center backs in ball recoveries and blocks. He is an adequate threat in the air, ranking in the top 20 percent when it comes to headers won. However, where he really excels is building play out of the back with the ball at his feet. He ranks in the top one percent in passes attempted and completed, as well as overall touches. Napoli's possession-based system has helped him become more confident with his passing, and he is in the top 20 percent in progressive passes and passes into the final third.
With a recent injury to Amir Rrahmani, Kim has been able to step up as Napoli's defensive anchor. This is a big boost to Korea, as he will need to be one of their mainstays in Qatar.
