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Argentine term for the classic number 10, roughly meaning "hook" or "connection." Plays centrally behind the strikers, linking midfield to attack through vision and passing rather than running. The enganche gets creative freedom but doesn't track back much, which makes the role rare now that everyone has to press. Riquelme was the perfect example - all touch, all passing, zero interest in defending.
Juan Román Riquelme was the quintessential enganche - at Boca Juniors and Villarreal, he would dictate games with his sublime touch, unhurried elegance, and killer through balls, despite minimal defensive contribution or physical presence.
Robbie
Jan 23, 2026
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