Roberto Ayala

Argentina · Centre-back · Gen 2 · Zidane & Ronaldinho · Peak 1998-2006

Undersized but superb in the air, a defensive leader who read play brilliantly

Nicknames El Ratón

77.4OVR#408 of 1,235 outfield players

Position-weighted average of all outfield and career attributes, as on the main table.

Top 10 attributes

Defensive Positioning92
Interceptions92
Aerial Duels92
Anticipation91
Heading90
Marking90
Standing Tackle90
Leadership90
Concentration90
Determination90

All 64 attributes

Speed 61.8

Top Speed71
Acceleration71
Dribbling Speed51
Top Speed with Ball65
Knock-on & Run55
Change of Pace58

Shooting 50.6

Finishing44
Shot Power62
Long Shots52
Volleys42
Curve46
Penalties50
Heading90
Direct Free Kicks38
Shooting Creativity30
Acrobatics52

Passing 61.1

Short Passing76
Long Passing70
Through Balls62
Crossing48
Link-up Play66
Vision64
Set-Piece Delivery42

Ball Control 66.7

Dribbling60
Possession72
First Touch74
Skills & Tricks50
Weak Foot68
Press Resistance76

Movement 61.8

Off-the-Ball Movement50
Runs in Behind42
Attacking Positioning46
Anticipation91
Recovery Runs80

Football IQ 80.5

Decision Making88
Spatial Awareness88
Game Management84
Tactical Creativity62

Defending Skill 90.0

Defensive Positioning92
Marking90
Interceptions92
Standing Tackle90
Sliding Tackle88
Offside Trap88

Physical 78.4

Strength80
Stamina85
Agility69
Balance80
Recovery82
Reactions84
Hold-up Play50
Aerial Duels92
Aggression84

Mental 89.0

Big-Game Temperament86
Leadership90
Selflessness88
Concentration90
Determination90
Tactical Discipline90

Career 75.8

Consistency90
Longevity88
Achievements61
Durability82
Loyalty58

Profile

Born: 14 April 1973
Height: 177 cm
Foot: Right
Career: 1991–2010
Prime: 1998-2006

Club career

1991–1993 Ferro Carril Oeste
1993–1995 River Plate
1995–1998 Napoli
1998–2000 AC Milan
2000–2007 Valencia
2007–2008 Real Zaragoza
2008–2010 Racing Club

Honours

Europa League 1

2004 Valencia

League title · La Liga Valencia 2

2001–02, 2003–04

UEFA Super Cup 1

2004

Olympic gold medal 1