Zhang Rui

Zhang Rui, an experienced central defensive midfielder for Shandong SL, has long been a stalwart presence in the Chinese Women's Super League (CWSL). At 36, she brings a wealth of experience and tenacity to the pitch, evidenced by her impressive playing time of 1,443 minutes over 17 matches this season. Known as an "Anchor" player, Zhang Rui excels in stabilizing the midfield with her robust defensive skills. She boasts a remarkable 10.17 possession-adjusted interceptions per game, showcasing her ability to read the game and disrupt opponents' play effectively.

Her role as a CDM doesn't just stop at defense, as Zhang Rui also contributes to her team’s offensive transitions. Although her goals per game sit at 0.07, it's her ability to facilitate ball progression that stands out, with an average progressive passing distance of 239.93 meters per game. Additionally, her progressive carrying distance of 83.67 meters per game highlights her capability to advance play, making her an essential link between defense and attack. Despite a modest 3.5 playmaker rank, her combination of defensive prowess and transitional support makes her a valuable asset to Shandong SL, reflected in her calculated transfer value of €4K.