Very little explanation is needed – essentially I am determining the best possible starting XI players currently in Europe. This list places much emphasis upon performances in big matches this season so far: crucial domestic games and European Cup competitions. I have had everybody from Zlatan to Iniesta on the phone, each begging for a place on the list – how did they manage to get hold of my number? Anyway, astonishingly (or perhaps not so astonishingly) you won’t find either name here.
Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comment section below, as I am expecting some probing questions. I approached this article with an objective mind, open to any player, regardless of age or “reputation”. I also decided on a widely-used 4-4-2 formation.
Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer: Bayern Munich
Mignolet, Moraes, Ruffier, Buffon, Cabbalero, Courtois, you name them, no goalkeeper in the world has been in better form this season than Bayern Munich and Germany’s No. 1, Manuel Neuer. The charismatic shotstopper has been a commanding presence behind Bayern’s back four. The definition of the word reliable, like Ron Burgundy, Neuer is an anchor-man, and he has provided Munich with just as many match winning moments as Franck Ribery and Mario Götze.
Neuer’s searing hot form has not just been limited to the domestic scene, however. The 27-year-old has recorded numerous clean sheets in the UEFA Champions League, notching up man of the match performances along the way. Whenever called upon, he rarely fails to make fine saves, while his distribution is always notable.
On current form, Neuer will most certainly be one of the best keepers on show at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Right Back: Pablo Zabaleta: Manchester City
The much admired Argentina star has been the model of reliability in a season of fluctuating fortunes, especially away from home, for City this term.
Named in the PFA Premier League Team of the 2012/2013 season, it would be no surprise if he found his name there again and perhaps scooped the Blues’ player of the year award this term.
Regularly compared to the great Denis Irwin, whom Sir Alex Ferguson said produced an eight-out-of-10 performance almost every week, Zabaleta has matured as a full back.
It is evident, for all the ridiculous talent in the City squad that Zabaleta is very much the unsung hero. For me, both Seamus Coleman and Zabaleta have been right back revelations this season, and it’s Zabaleta’s refusal to be influenced by all the plaudits that impresses me so much. Much like the aforementioned Irwin, the Argentine defender lets his football do the talking, leaving the front page of the tabloids for ex teammates such as Mario Balotelli and Carlos Tevez.
One of Mark Hughes’ first signings, the former Espanyol man can almost be regarded as a veteran given the vast change the club has undergone in recent years.
Centre Back: Alessandro Lucarelli: Parma
What superlatives are left to describe this true professional? Italy is known for corruption and carries a reputation for being about as reliable as an Alfa Romeo’s engine. However, it is also known for breeding some of the biggest legends ever to grace a football field. From Christian Zanetti to Paolo Maldini, the list is endless. Alessandro Lucarelli is a man who could be added to this list. Perhaps a debateable iclusion, nonetheless, I feel that he deserves his place among Europe’s elite. The Italian turned 36 in July, but the burly defender is currently enjoying arguably his best season with Parma, and arguably his best season ever in football. The former Fiorentina and Genoa centre-back has kicked almost every ball of Parma’s Serie A matches so far this term, kicking a few attackers in the process. His remarkable ability to read a dangerous situation is impressive. Obviously, at the age of 36, Lucarelli lacks the pace of many attacking players, but his positioning masks this fact on an almost continuous basis. A true old school defender, the Italian has been nothing short of brilliant this season.
Centre Back: Diego Godin: Atletico Madrid
The best defender in Spain this season has not been Sergio Ramos or Pique, it has been Diego Godin. The Uruguayan has managed to stay fit and is no longer the unpredictable player from 2012, early 2013.
Los Colchoneros have been solid defensively in La Liga this season, and it is no exaggeration to say that Godin is the major reason why.
He works determinedly to prevent opposing players from even getting a sniff of an opportunity and has become more active in the attacking third. All this has been added to his game without once surrendering his positioning defensively.
The defender makes Thibaut Courtois’ job far easier, actually making the Belgian look even better than he actually is. With the instincts, the smarts and the skills, Godin has all the attributes needed to become the best defender in Europe. Keep an eye out for a big move in the not so distant future; God knows Manchester City could do with him, especially when you consider Vincent Kompany’s unpredictable fitness levels and the pace of Martin Demichelis, something similar to that of a three-legged donkey.
Left Back: Ricardo Rodriguez: Wolfsburg
Switzerland, much like Belgium, continuously produces two things in abundance: delicious chocolate and batches of promising super-stars. Ricardo Rodriguez is very much one of these starlets. In my opinion, he has been the standout left-back in Europe so far this season. Yes, Leighton Baines or Luke Shaw might have a say in this matter, but for sheer class, Rodriguez deserves his place in the team.
At just 21 years-of-age, the full back has already a made a huge impression in the Bundesliga. Plying his trade with the once formidable Wolfsburg, he is a player to keep a close eye on over the forthcoming months, as Rodriguez is destined for a move to a much bigger club, perhaps Munich or Chelsea, both of whom are in need of defensive reinforcements.
Right Wing: Sidney Sam: Bayer Leverkusen
Sidney Sam may sound like a DJ living it up in Ibiza, but I assure you that he is not; he is a footballer living it up in Germany. Having scored five goals in 22 Bundesliga matches for Leverkusen last season, Sam had already managed to better this in the first nine games of this campaign. Capturing the attention of scouts across the globe, the German winger has built quite a reputation for himself. He deservedly takes the right-wing spot in this European XI, as Leverkusen have been unpredictable lately, yet Sam has maintained a consistent level of brilliance.
Attacking Midfield: Cristiano Ronaldo: Real Madrid
Quite recently, Real Madrid forward Cristiano Ronaldo received the Globe Soccer Award for the fans favourite player of 2013. It comes as no surprise, as of right now; he is the very best player in the world. His performances of late have been phenomenal.
In his speech during the conference, somewhat tongue in cheek, Ronaldo said that it won’t be easy for him to record 69 goals like he did last year.
“It won’t be easy to repeat what I’ve achieved. But I will certainly try to break more records because I won’t develop unless I try,” admitted the Portuguese star.
He then continued by stating, “I’ve been developing myself for (almost) six or seven years. I continuously improve and scoring goals is part of the development of my (skills).”
CR7, who is also the captain of his national team, is literally tearing La Liga defences apart. In addition, he managed to bag an astonishing nine goals in the group stages of this Champions League campaign.
Cocky in the extreme, when asked who his favourite current player is, jokingly, Ronnie responded by saying: “I am my (own) favourite player.”
Love or hate, there is no denying the brilliance of this man. With Messi currently injured, now is the perfect time for the enigmatic superstar to widen the gap of influence and effectiveness.
Let us remember this: In a decade, remarkably, Ronnie has gone from a baby-faced cowboy to a proficient goalscorer. Honestly, forget Messi, Ibra, Bale and the rest, this man is the best player in the world RIGHT NOW.
Portugal’s debonair prince does not need a golden bauble to confirm his magnificence. He is the best footballer I have witnessed this season. He knows it and you know it, even if you are a diehard Barca fan.
What I love about this guy is the simple fact that Ronaldo never shied away from hard work during his years at Old Trafford. A stint of abdominal soreness, for instance, was attributed to a daily custom of 700 press-ups, followed by hundreds of crunches. Easy workout, right?
Creative Midfielder: Luca Modric: Real Madrid
Over a year ago, Spanish newspaper Marca encouraged their readers to vote on the worst signing in La Liga. The two names to top the poll were ex EPL stars. Alex Song and Luka Modrić were the two names that topped the list. The duo signed for Barcelona and Real Madrid respectively, having previously operated in North London for bitter rivals Arsenal and Spurs. While Song continues to underperform in Spain, Modric has gone from zero to hero. Something that was both refreshing and necessary to see, especially when you consider the substantial fee Los Blancos paid Tottenham Hotspur in order to secure the Croatian’s signature.
There had been unremitting reports suggesting the playmaker was miserable in Spain, missing the adoration he received in England. There were real fears that his development would be subdued due to his lack of appearances under José Mourinho. Early on, no doubt, Modrić failed to replicate his Spurs form, which didn’t help in his attempt at winning over the expectant supporters, and many were calling for him to be sold after only a matter of weeks at Madrid.
Nevertheless, Luka ploughed away, and rather than shy away from the unwanted limelight, the pocket-sized 28-year-old trained harder and fought for his place in the starting eleven. While many constantly ridiculed the midfielder, Modrić remained determined to win over the sceptics and has done so in remarkable fashion. Real may have failed to defend their La Liga silverware last term, but on a deeply personal level, the Croatian magician can be content with his end of season performances.
Under Ancelotti, Luka is now the main man providing the fluidity in the middle of the park. I have always admired this player, and seeing Modrić figure so highly in the Real stats rankings this season has been joyous. This fact will come as no surprise to those that have frequently watched the pocket dynamo over recent years. Interestingly, of every regular for the Real last term, only Michael Essien had a better pass success rate than Modrić (87.7%) in La Liga, highlighting his aptitude at picking out a teammate on an almost unfailing basis.
His fondness to keep the ball in motion as much as possible is key to Madrid’s brilliance this year. This fact alone has seen the Croatian win over a number of critics, especially in the merciless Spanish media. Class is permanent, and with Modrić providing so many influential assists, Madrid look more complete as a whole. Yes, Bale and Ronaldo get most of the headlines, however, Modric is a special player, an artist that deserves to be respected and praised.
Considering his diminutive frame and lack of height, he possesses a strength and composure that sees him elude and outshine much more powerful midfielders.
Left Wing: Franck Ribery: Bayern Munich
Last August, Franck Ribery picked up UEFA’s Best Player in Europe award, and the France international, also nominated for the 2013 Ballon d’Or – has actually benefited from the managerial change at Bayern Munich. At 30 years-of-age, some may expect his performances on the flank to slow or become less effective, but the opposite has been the case. Ribery has produced more awe-inspiring moments of quality under Pep Guardiola than ever before. Having bagged three goals in his first nine appearances of the season, the French wizard has gone on to score vital goals and provide splendid assists.
Striker: Diego Costa: At. Madrid
One word can be used to describe the current campaign for the Atletico Madrid. And that word is WOW. As the powerful goal scorer bids to be selected in the World XI team to be announced on January 13th, his reputation as a world class striker is most definitely confirmed. In early December, at the Balon d’or Gala, FIFA and FIFPro announced the shortlisted candidates for the position of the best attacker currently plying his trade. Balotelli, Cavani, Suarez, Zlatan & CR7 are just a few of the names that accompany the Brazilian on this list of the elite. The recent goals and performances of Diego Costa in Spain have earned the Hispanic – Brazilian striker the very right to be classed in this special group of players, but only three will make up the striker positions in the World XI selection. The sheer strength and flair of Costa are two of his most impressive attributes.
Some fear that his ability to use the dark arts when necessary might hinder his advancement and credibility as a footballer. Last year, the Brazilian international was sent off in the Europa League. The incident was rather unsavoury, as Costa produced a move more suited to the WWE. He headbutted David Limbersky, a Viktoria Plzen player, and UEFA subsequently banned him for four games. One can often witness team-mates frantically trying to calm him down to keep the red mist at bay, yet it is Costa’s pace and finishing that have seen his team challenging both Barca and Real for the La Liga silverware. Too often he may look like he has gone 12 rounds with Tyson, but Costa has the control and the intelligence to play with his back to goal. Instead of suffering due to the sale of Falcao, Costa has truly thrived.
Striker: Luis Suarez: Liverpool
England captain Steven Gerrard recently claimed, on current form, that Liverpool team mate Luis Suarez is the greatest player in the world.
In his first 12 appearances of the season, the fiery Uruguayan netted 19 times. These goals catapulted Liverpool to the top of the Premier League, albeit for a temporary period of time. At this time, he had scored six more than his nearest rival, Argentina forward Sergio Augero, a remarkable achievement when you consider the fact that Suarez was banned for a handful of early season games.
At the back end of 2013, Suarez’s prolific streak earned him a lucrative contract renewal at Anfield, a place where he has overcome extensive misgivings after numerous contentious incidents. One of these included the infamous bite on the arm of Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic. This season, the South American seems to have adapted a strict vegetarian diet, and he looks sharper than ever before.
Amazingly, the 27-year-old is the first Liverpool player to score at least twice in five successive home games. Suarez is well on course to exceed the Premier League goal scoring record of 34, an excellent achievement shared by former English heroes Andy Cole and Alan Shearer. The latter is quite possibly the best striker to ever grace the EPL, and Shearer achieved the 34 goal feat with Blackburn Rovers in the 1994-95 season.
Honourable Mentions:
Goalkeeper: Vincent Enyeama, Lille
It is only down to the greatness of Manuel Neuer that Enyeama isn’t this teams custodian, thanks to his unbelievable run of 11 consecutive clean sheets in Ligue 1 for Lille during the first half of the season. His 1062 minutes without conceding meant that he fell just 114 minutes short of the all-time record in France’s top flight. The fact that the goal came thanks to a big deflection mean that Vincent was as unlucky then as he is in missing out on selection today!
Striker: Mario Mandzukic, Bayern
An underrated striker– his goalscoring record has been rather impressive, but it’s his all-round contribution that is what makes him so valuable. From battling in the air to his dogged determination to get back and make his side a more compact unit, the man is almost good enough to be called Super Mario. Perhaps Balotelli has that nickname firmly secured.
Centre back: Thiago Silva: PSG
The major reason why PSG have one of the most established defences in Europe is down to the immense Brazilian. Along with Ibra, Silva is one of the first names on the PSG list of indispensable players. His intellectual defending makes him a very daunting opponent.
Left back: Jordi Alba: Barcelona
The Spaniard has slotted in well at Barca and is an able replacement for the ailing Abidal, and it is his deadly ability down the flank that proves to be his greatest asset. Who can forget that goal against AC Milan in the Champions League? You know the one, a goal scored on a night that sealed an incredible comeback for the Catalan giants.
Centre midfield: Arturo Vidal: Juventus
Vidal has flourished with Juventus, averaging roughly 5 tackles per game, pretty impressive for any defensive midfielder. Last season, his 13 goals and 10 assists in all competitions proved that he is just as effective going forward. Along with Tevez and Pogba, he has been one of the standout players for Juventus this season.
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