Rangliste 2012-13 - Attacking Midfielders

Marek Hamsik (Napoli and Slovakia) 38 games, 11 goals **

For so long regarded as a huge prospect this was a coming of age season for Hamsik. In the past he has been erratic in his play, sometimes superb but often underwhelming, but this year he added the consistency that was previous lacking. Outstanding with the ball at his feet he laid on a host of chances for his teammates, most notably for Edinson Cavani, and was probably the leading creative figure in Serie A this season. He’s now on the verge of becoming a very special player indeed.

Juan Mata (Chelsea and Spain) 35 games, 12 goals **

Deservedly voted as Chelsea’ player of the season, Mata was a class apart this year. 12 assists in the league this season along with 12 goals meant that he was Chelsea’s most influential player and his performances were no less significant in Europe, delivering both assists in the Europa League final to secure yet another trophy was taken back to Stamford Bridge. With Jose Mourinho now returning to West London the Spaniard may well be joined by the reinforcements needed to win his first league title in England.

Mario Goetze (Borussia Dortmund and Germany) 28 games, 10 goals **

The question so many people were left asking in the aftermath of the Champions League final was, “What difference might Goetze have made?” That imponderable will sadly remain unanswered but it does reflect the esteem in which he is held that the youngster might have been the difference maker for Dortmund if he had been fit. A German record fee move to Bayern Munich should ensure that he will have plenty of opportunities to sample club football’s biggest event many times in the future.

Henrikh Mkhitaryan (Shakhtar Donetsk and Armenia) 29 games, 25 goals **

Quite simply a phenomenal season for Mkhitaryan in an exceptional Shakhtar team. The title had already been effectively won by Christmas after a start to the season which saw them nearly unstoppable at home and hugely impressive on the international scene. The young Armenian was the stand out figure in the side, taking full advantage of a slightly advanced position to score the sort of goals tally that any striker would be proud of. The tiny country in the South Caucasus has not had a player this good since Khoren Oganesian in the early 1980s.

Santi Cazorla (Arsenal and Spain) 38 games, 12 goals **

A season that started brilliantly was more fitful after Christmas but few could dispute that Cazorla was among the finest newcomers in the league. Full of imagination and guile the Spaniard was the primary creative force in the Gunners’ successful race for the Champions League. Given that his compatriots David Silva and Juan Mata both improved significantly in their second season in the Premier League, Arsenal fans have a lot to look forward to.

Toni Kroos (Bayern Munich and Germany) 24 games, 6 goals **

The absence of Toni Kroos for Bayern Munich in the Champions League didn’t ultimately prove costly but such was the young midfielder’s influence during the season that it might have been a more straightforward match had he been fit. His excellent positioning and passing ability make FC Hollywood a far less predictable team to face than when they play with an out and out winger like Arjen Robben and shift Thomas Muller inside. How Pep Guardiola will accommodate so many exceptional players is unclear but he’d be a fool to sacrifice the talents of Kroos.

Hernanes (Lazio and Brazil) 34 games, 11 goals *

Although his influence declined in the second half of the season it was still a very impressive year for Hernanes. A recall to the Brazilian national team was strong recognition of his fine form and he could well be exactly the kind of player that Felipe Scolari needs next summer given his clever positioning and well judged distribution. Those attributes would also be well suited to a club more likely to challenge for major honours than Lazio.

Marouane Fellaini (Everton and Belgium) 31 games, 11 goals *

After a superb beginning to 2012-3 the performances of Fellaini, like those of Everton as a whole, were rather less impressive as the season wore on. However, at his peak in the early months of the campaign the Belgian midfielder was nigh on unplayable and his relentless physicality saw defenders completely unable to contain him. Given Manchester United’s need for a central midfielder to play alongside Michael Carrick in anchoring the side most people consider it only a matter of time before Fellaini joins former manager David Moyes at Old Trafford.

Andres Iniesta (Barcelona and Spain) 31 games, 3 goals *

This was a strange season for Iniesta. For the first time in his career he began to deliver the number of assists that one would associate with a player so frequently touted as one of the greats of this era. Yet for a player who carried the soubriquet “the solutions man” he looked in the Champions League sorely lacking in ways of breaking down the best defences. If he is to merit the lofty accolades which he so often receives he needs to be able to be able to deliver against big and small teams alike.

Mesut Oezil (Real Madrid and Germany) 32 games, 9 goals *

The arrival of Luka Modric in Madrid added an extra element of pressure for Oezil this season. Previously the injury troubles of Kaka had meant that the German was almost unchallenged as the team’s preeminent playmaker but the arrival of the Croatian schemer was forced to work for his place. Yet again he was among the most regular providers of chances in Europe with 13 assists in the league alone. Still only 24 the best should be yet to come.

Mathieu Valbuena (Marseille and France) 37 games, 3 goals *

Now ready to commit himself to Marseille in the longer term, Valbuena remains the key creative force at the Stade Velodrome. His 12 assists in Ligue 1 were surpassed only by Dimitri Payet and the hustle and bustle of the Marseille man’s endeavours means opposing defences rarely get a moment of peace. With the World Cup just a year away he has sensibly decided that leaving the familiar surroundings of Marseille would be a mistake at this point in time.

Isco (Malaga and Spain) 37 games, 9 goals *

With Malaga’s financial difficulties it is now certain that Isco will not be playing on the Costa del Sol next season. Which megaclub he will be joining is still unclear but another fantastic year for the youngster means it is inevitable that he will have a host of suitors. Last year he proved he was capable of shining in La Liga, this season he took that form into Europe, lighting up the Champions League on a run that agonizingly ended in the quarter-finals. If he does join Manchester City as is widely tipped they’ll be hoping he can finally get them past the European group stages.

Christian Eriksen (Ajax and Denmark) 33 games, 10 goals *

Given the lofty expectations which surround Eriksen the year that has just gone was not an unqualified success. Yes, he won the title for the third season in a row with Ajax, providing thirteen assists, more than any other player in the team. However, for a player of his calibre there was a hope that he might yet have kicked on further still and truly dominated the league. For him to develop further many feel he should move to one of the continent’s best leagues and could there be a better place to do so than as a potential successor to Mario Goetze at Dortmund?

Honourable Mentions

Juan Arango (Borussia Moenchengladbach and Venezuela)

Pablo Batalla (Bursaspor and Argentina)

Remy Cabella (Montpellier and France)

Gonzalo Castro (Bayer Leverkusen and Germany)

Renaud Cohade (St Etienne and France)
Kevin De Bruyne (Werder Bremen and Belgium)

Alessandro Diamanti (Bologna and Italy)

Diego (Wolfsburg and Brazil)

Filip Djuricic (Heerenveen and Serbia)

Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona and Spain)

Julien Feret (Rennes and France)
Steven Gerrard (Liverpool and England)
Keisuke Honda (CSKA Moscow and Japan)

Szabolcs Huszti (Hannover and Hungary)

Hiroshi Kiyotake (Nurnberg and Japan)

Koke (Atletico Madrid and Spain)

Adam Maher (AZ Alkmaar and Netherlands)

Oscar (Chelsea and Brazil)

Oscar (Valladolid and Spain)

Ivan Rakitic (Sevilla and Croatia)

Wayne Rooney (Manchester United and England)

David Silva (Manchester City and Spain)
Marco Van Ginkel (Vitesse and Netherlands)

Joan Verdu (Espanyol and Spain)

 

Rangliste 2012-13 - Central Midfielders

Arturo Vidal (Juventus and Chile) 31 games, 10 goals ***

Although his first season in Turin was a superb one, Vidal was rarely quite as influential last time out as when he starred for Bayer Leverkusen. This year Vidal has increasingly taken on the mantle of Juventus’ most important player, scoring crucial goals and providing valuable assists as well as the vast range of other intangibles which make him arguably the world’s most complete central midfielder. It’s no real surprise that Real Madrid have apparently been tracking the Chilean, a player who would improve any team.

Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich and Germany) 28 games, 7 goals ***

Bayern Munich's star midfielder had to face the demons of failure last year after his crucial penalty miss in the Champions League shoot out. This season he was frequently excellent and sporadically exceptional though there were signs that his passing on occasion was not as crisp as it could be. Despite that anchoring the team to an historic treble was fitting reward for a sublime midfielder and allowed him to finally capture major silverware after so many near misses.

Andrea Pirlo (Juventus and Italy) 32 games, 5 goals **

After a sensation first season at Juve this year marked a marginal decline in the impact of Andrea Pirlo. That though should not take away from what, by almost any other player’s standards, was an excellent campaign. 10 goals across Serie A and the Champions League tell a story but the real measure of Pirlo’s significance to the Old Lady continues to be the measured control he displays in an increasingly busy midfield.

Xavi (Barcelona and Spain) 30 games, 5 goals **

Is it too early to say that Xavi is on the wane? The Barcelona legend completed more passes more accurately than any other player in Europe and yet there was a suspicion that his ability to influence play in the final third was showing signs of decline. Unquestionably he remains the game’s finest midfield metronome but as with a number of his team mates he needs to show more cutting edge in future seasons rather than simply relying on Messi for a moment of genius.

Ilkay Gundogan (Borussia Dortmund and Germany) 28 games, 3 goals **

Last season saw Gundogan initially struggle to adjust to the task of replacing Nuri Sahin in the Dortmund midfield before, as the season wore on, he started to excel. This year that upward trajectory continued with the player of Turkish heritage demonstrating his ability in a series of excellent Champions League performances. Calm and collected in possession, a fine dribbler and intelligent passer he certainly has all the tools to establish himself as one of the best midfielders in world football. Now he needs to set about forcing his way into starting XI for the German national side.

Fernandinho (Shakhtar Donetsk and Brazil) 23 games, 2 goals *

Fernandinho’s continued absence from the Brazilian national squad remains an ongoing mystery. One of the most complete players available to Selecao manager Felipe Scolari, he would look a natural fit in the international team but has been overlooked along with the rest of the Ukraine based cohort. Extremely impressive in the Champions League run, Fernandinho was equally important to another domestic title that was won with ease.

Claudio Marchisio (Juventus and Italy) 29 games, 6 goals *

Playing alongside Arturo Vidal and Andrea Pirlo it can sometimes be easy for Marchisio to fly under the radar. That lack of profile though doesn’t reflect the contribution of the Italian international who adds drive and the desire to burst into the box to a stellar midfield. Extremely well rounded Marchisio is as adept defensively as he is in getting forward and his willingness to work back for the side has been a major feature of Juve’s success under Antonio Conte.

Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid and Spain) 28 games, 0 goals *

Ultimately a rather disappointing season for Alonso concluded without a major trophy or a real sense that such a richly gifted group of players as those that grace the Bernabeu had fulfilled their potential. On a personal level the Spaniard was still hugely important in central midfield, again setting the rhythm that the team played to, but he rarely hit the same heights that he has enjoyed for La Roja. Quite what the departure of Jose Mourinho might mean for the former Liverpool man is unclear but while rumours of stalling contract discussions were widespread there are few players who would provide more than Alonso.

David Pizarro (Fiorentina and Chile) 29 games, 3 goals *

So cruelly wasted by Manchester City last season Pizarro made clear in Florence that he is one of the world’s best midfield orchestrators. At his best when he is the focal point of a side he excelled in a team committed to attractive possession play and who offered the movement to exploit his intricate passing. Seemingly set to move again in the summer the Chilean may be entering the last years of his career but given he has never relied on physicality there is no reason to write him off just yet.

Borja Valero (Fiorentina and Spain) 37 games, 1 goal *

As with Pizarro, Borja Valero has made the most of the opportunity to play alongside like minded figures in the Fiorentina team. So often responsible for the key final pass in the team he chipped in with 11 assists, only Francesco Totti and Marek Hamsik supplying more in Serie A. That epitomizes his value to the side and his combination with both the Chilean and Alberto Aquilani made Fiorentina arguably the best side to watch in the Italian top flight this year.

Joao Moutinho (Porto and Portugal) 27 games, 1 goal *

Long the subject of intense transfer speculation Moutinho has finally taken the plunge and departed Portugal. The only surprise in that he has opted for the French Ligue 1 and parvenus Monaco rather than one of the continent’s more established powers. A playmaker of exceptional vision and technical ability he started the season slowly but gradually worked himself back to peak form. Now he needs to focus on making Monaco a worthy rival to PSG.

Kevin de Bruyne (Werder Bremen and Belgium) 33 games, 10 goals *

An excellent loan spell in Bremen has done a lot for De Bruyne’s reputation. Signed by Chelsea last year but allowed to remain in Belgium, spending 12 months in Germany has shown that he is able to step up to the highest level. Whether that will be at Stamford Bridge or whether he might go on another high profile loan is unclear but regardless he needs first team football to show that he can step on again.

Marco Verratti (Paris Saint-Germain and Italy) 27 games, 0 goals *

Widely regarded as the future of Italy’s midfield Verratti has the class on the ball and elegance in his play to suggest he could well be a worthy successor to Andrea Pirlo. For a player of his age to be handed such a crucial role for a side of PSG’s caliber certainly indicates a level of maturity that does not normally accompany tender years. Although the French champions wealthy backers may well back further purchases there should be no danger of Verratti being shown the door.

Honourable mentions

Mikel Arteta (Arsenal and Spain)
Lars Bender (Bayer Leverkusen and Germany)
Moussa Dembele (Tottenham Hotspur and Belgium)
Aaron Hunt (Werder Bremen and Germany)
Gokhan Inler (Napoli and Switzerland)
Sami Khedira (Real Madrid and Germany)
David Luiz (Chelsea and Brazil)
Steed Malbranque (Lyon and France)
Ricardo Montolivo (AC Milan and Italy)
Roman Neustadter (Schalke and Germany)
Paul Pogba (Juventus and France)
Yaya Toure (Manchester City and Ivory Coast)

Rangliste 2012-13 - Defensive Midfielders

Michael Carrick (Manchester United and England) 36 games, 1 goal ***

Often an unsung hero in United’s midfield this was one of the first seasons in which Michael Carrick was duly recognized. Universally selected by Manchester United players as their player of the season, Carrick was instrumental in a fantastic season which saw the title won at a canter. That he has already won five titles, not to mention a Champions League crown, in just seven years at Old Trafford may give food for thought to those who questioned his inclusion among the PFA’s six nominations for the season.

Sergio Busquets (Barcelona and Spain) 31 games, 1 goal **

The ease with which Barcelona won La Liga, only to collapse in dramatic style in the Champions League, made the overall season a distinct anticlimax. That disappointment should not take away from another fine season for Busquets who remains one of the preeminent shielding midfielders of his era. As ever an immensely accurate passer and a master of retaining the ball, little blame could be pointed in his direction for his side’s failure in the season’s showpiece matches.

Blaise Matuidi (Paris Saint-Germain and France) 37 games, 5 goals **

Despite the high profile arrivals of some of the game’s biggest names Matuidi was probably the most consistent midfielder in France this season. Physically powerful and impressive in possession the France star was one of the few constants in the side, featuring in more league matches than any other PSG player, underlining the faith shown in him by Carlo Ancelotti. Certainly against Barcelona he displayed an ability to compete against the very best and to get forward when needed.

Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich and Spain) 27 games, 3 goals **

Even at £32m Martinez has worked out as an excellent signing for Bayern. The midfielder only started 19 league matches for the Bavarians but it was in the Champions League where he really excelled, proving dominant in the semi-final match ups against Barcelona and offering a platform for the team’s attacking stars to build on. That calm and assured ability allied with his positioning and aerial ability makes him one of the most complete defensive midfielders in the game at present and Spain must surely now be looking for a way to shoehorn him into the starting XI.

Pontus Wernbloom (CSKA Moscow and Sweden) 26 games, 4 goals **

A domestic double for CSKA Moscow was a fantastic end to a vintage season from Wernbloom. The Swedish midfielder has been the key figure in the success of the club in the last 12 months with his authority in midfield complimenting the creative talents provided by the likes of Keisuke Honda and Alan Dzagoev. The former AZ man may not be the biggest star to ply his trade in the Russian league, but nobody was more consistently influential or important.

Maxime Gonalons (Lyon and France) 35 games, 3 goals *

Belying his tender years Maxime Gonalons plays like an old head in Lyon’s midfield. The French star made more passes than any other player in Ligue 1 and that ability to retain possession was a critical element in OL’s third place finish. That performance will put Lyon into the qualifying rounds for the Champions League where one would expect his brand of measured and intelligent midfield mastery to be right at home.

Benat (Real Betis and Spain) 34 games, 4 goals *

Set to join Athletic Bilbao in the summer, the hugely influential Benat has had a strong final season in Seville. A major danger from set-pieces he is also capable of dictating the pace of play from deep positions and Betis will struggle badly to replace the calm he exudes in the centre of the pitch. No wonder then that a number of English clubs were reportedly interesting in signing the midfield schemer who would have been a worthy addition to almost any midfield.

Nemanja Matic (Benfica and Serbia) 26 games, 3 goals *

The tall Serbian midfielder might have missed out on Europa League glory but he certainly showed former club Chelsea that they might regret letting him go. Consistently among the league’s best performers as he drove Benfica forward ,he was voted the player of the month in the Superliga three times, illustrating quite how influential he has become during his time in Portugal. Given his performances this season a return to the Premier League may yet be in the offing, though Benfica have proven notoriously hard to bargain with in years past.

Etienne Capoue (Toulouse and France) 34 games, 7 goals *

An average season for Toulouse but a fine individual campaign from Capoue who provides so much verve and drive from the centre of midfield. Frequently among the goals and excellent in the air he possesses the determination and ability that ought to succeed at one of Europe’s best clubs. Certainly he would make a sensible addition for a certain club newly riched and based in a French principality.

Morgan Schneiderlin (Southampton and France) 36 games, 5 goals *

Not one of the more well known Premier League stars but few were as influential this season. No player across Europe’s major leagues made more interceptions in 2012-3 and it was that ability to break up play and then use the ball intelligently that was so vital in Southampton’s relegation battle. Those close to the team undoubtedly knew the value of Schneiderlin’s contribution with the fans and players voting him their club player of the year.

Sebastian Rode (Eintracht Frankfurt and Germany) 33 games, 0 goals *

The partnership between Pirmin Schwegler and Sebastian Rode in the Frankfurt midfield was of tremendous importance in the team’s unexpected success in the Bundesliga. The club might be most famous for facing Real Madrid in the 1960 European Cup final but despite such an illustrious past nobody thought they would excel in such a way as they did in the opening weeks of the season. Admittedly they found the ruckrunde rather tougher but the young German remained industrious and impressive in an excellent first season back in the top flight.

Victor Wanyama (Celtic and Kenya) 32 games, 6 goals *

The relentless energy and drive of Wanyama were of huge importance in Celtic’s unexpected progress in the Champions League. The Kenyan star impressed all observers with the maturity of his play and his lack of fear against some of Europe’s most renowned names. His impact may have waned as the season progressed but he certainly did enough to justify the interest surrounding him as a potential Premier League acquisition.

Defensive midfielders
Esteban Cambiasso (Inter and Argentina)
Gabi (Atletico Madrid and Spain)
Luiz Gustavo (Bayern Munich and Brazil)
Asier Illarramendi (Real Sociedad and Spain)
Grzgorz Krychowiak (Reims and Poland)
Frank Lampard (Chelsea and England)
Francesco Lodi (Catania and Italy)
Sandro (Tottenham and Brazil)
Pirmin Schwegler (Eintracht Frankfurt and Switzerland)
Jeremy Toulalan (Malaga and France)

Rangliste 2012-13 - Centre-backs

Dante (Bayern Munich and Brazil) 29 games, 1 goal ***

After a fine season last year at Gladbach Dante arrived in Munich to join Holger Badstuber and Jerome Boateng in a centre-back rotation. By Christmas he had proved he was not only indispensible but arguably the best defender in Europe. His clumsy “tackle” in the Champions League final was far from illustrative of his true quality as he is normally a composed and assured figure who neatly blends physicality with anticipation and ball skills. Now set to form a seemingly world class defensive partnership with Thiago Silva he should be a focal part of Brazil’s preparations for the 2014 World Cup.

Thiago Silva (PSG and Brazil) 22 games, 0 goals **

Although it took him some time to settle in Paris, by the end of the season Thiago was back to the spectacular form he displayed during his spell at Milan. That was enough to see many regard him as the best central defender in the world for his combination of great technique alongside pace and strength. Now committed to stay at PSG the millions lavished on the Brazilian international could well turn out to be the best money their Qatari backers ever spend.

Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus and Italy) 24 games, 1 goal **

Has there been a better defender in world football over the last five years than Chiellini? Despite his occasional absences this season through injury the Juventus stopper has been at his imperious best in an exceptional defence along with Andrea Barzagli and Leonardo Bonucci. Outstanding in the air and a fantastic tackler Chiellini is more than maintaining the rich tradition of Italian hard men that dates back to Pietro Vierchowod and Claudio Gentile.

Andrea Barzagli (Juventus and Italy) 34 games, 1 goal **

Rarely a player who garners too many plaudits Barzagli followed up on his hugely impressive 2011-2 with another excellent season at Juve. With excellent concentration levels and a love of defending he provides a fantastic base for the team and was instrumental in making the old lady’s backline so impregnable. Certainly the time is well overdue for the Italian international to start getting the wider credit he deserves. 

Diego Godin (Atletico Madrid and Uruguay) 35 games, 1 goal **

The rugged and uncompromising Godin has been a central figure for Atletico Madrid this season. Rumours floated last summer suggested that Liverpool eyed the Uruguayan as a potential replacement for Daniel Agger if he was to join Manchester City, and given how Godin has played in the last 12 months they might be wishing they had been able to move the Dane from Merseyside. Although he won’t win too many awards for his technical abilities there are few defenders who are more apt at the simple art of frustrating the opposition.

Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund and Germany) 28 games, 1 goal *

After two seasons in which Hummels was near flawless this year marked something of a decline. Still a commanding presence at the back there were errors against both Shakhtar Donetsk and Real Madrid which almost ended Dortmund’s stunning Champions League run. Where the BVB defender excels is with the ball at his feet and he remains something of a throwback in the way that he gallops forward to join attacks when the mood suits him. That ability is what has elevated him above his peers in the past but he needs to refocus on the defensive basics to return to the top table.

Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham and Belgium) 34 games, 4 goals *

An excellent first season in England saw the Belgian defender elected by his peers to the PFA team of the season. Initially used as a left-back in the absence of Benoit Assou-Ekotto, by the end of the season Vertonghen had been restored to his preferred central berth. His quality on the ball and willingness to surge forward have been key in the consistency shown by Spurs this season and his partnership with Michael Dawson is among the most dependable in the league.

Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid and Spain) 26 games, 4 goals*

Far from a vintage season for Real Madrid but Sergio Ramos continued to excel in La Liga. While the prodigiously talented Raphael Varane naturally attracted huge attention for what was a marvelous breakthrough season, Ramos held the defence together during a challenging autumn for Los Merengues. With a top class partner alongside him there is little reason why Ramos cannot carry Madrid even further next year.

Gonzalo Rodriguez (Fiorentina and Argentina) 35 games, 6 goals *
It’s easier to pick out the players who didn’t perform superbly for Fiorentina this season than those who did. Vincenzo Montella did such an impressive job in motivating the Viola that they were minutes away from reaching the Champions League only to be overtaken in the dying moments by Milan. In a fine back three with Facundo Roncaglia and the rehabilitated Stefan Savic the Argentine Rodriguez displayed his ability from set pieces as well as typically committed defending.  

Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United and England) 28 games, 1 goal *

Overshadowed in recent years by the performances of defensive partners Nemanja Vidic and Jonny Evans, Ferdinand reestablished himself as United’s premier centre-back during 2012-3. Much of the focus around the defender this season centred on his international recall and eventual retirement but that he was in such demand was an indication of the quality of his performances. Only Ryan Giggs has been at Old Trafford longer now than Ferdinand and he remains the focal point of a first rate defence.

Hugo Campagnaro (Napoli and Argentina) 28 games, 1 goal *

Napoli haven’t enjoyed a season as successful in the league as this since the days of Diego Maradona. Campagnaro may not be blessed with the creative gifts of his illustrious compatriot but he is deservedly winning a legion of admirers in Naples. Dogged, determined and unwavering in his commitment to win every header and tackle the Argentine has been a true rock at the heart of a resolute defence.  

Nicolas Nkoulou (Marseille and Cameroon) 38 games, 0 goals *

Not many pundits expected to Marseille to push PSG for quite so long as they did in the race for the French title. That they did owed a debt to both the Parisians failure to add up to the sum of their parts but also the defensive excellence of Nkoulou. Voted by his peers into the Ligue 1 team of the season the Cameroonian international was consistently excellent domestically and shone on a regular basis at the Stade Velodrome.

Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal and France) 25 games, 2 goals *

The incredible run of form that Arsenal enjoyed in the last 10 matches of the season indicated that when they play at their best they can show the consistency of title winners. Critical to that success was the fact that they conceded only five goals in those 10 fixtures and the man they had to thank was Koscielny. His solidity made him an essential figure in the closing stages and his goal against Newcastle in the final match of the season clinched that invaluable Champions League place.

Ezequiel Garay (Benfica and Argentina) 27 games, 1 goal *

Ultimately the season ended in disappointment for Garay and his Benfica side. Pipped at the post by Porto in the Superliga and agonizingly defeated in the closing moments of the Europa League by Chelsea what had looked such a promising year turned into a vast let down. Despite that the Argentina star had another fine year and looks well established at the heart of the defence in Alejandro Sabella’s squad for next year’s World Cup.

Honourable Mentions
Toby Alderweireld (Ajax and Belgium)

Mehdi Benatia (Udinese and Morocco)

Jerome Boateng (Bayern Munich and Germany)

Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus and Italy)

Paolo Cannavaro (Napoli and Italy)
Aurelien Chedjou (Lille and Cameroon)

Chico (Swansea and Spain)
Alberto de la Bella (Real Sociedad and Spain)
Jonny Evans (Manchester United and Northern Ireland)

Benedikt Hoewedes (Schalke and Germany)

Timm Klose (Nurnberg and Germany)
Marquinhos (Roma and Brazil)

Inigo Martinez (Real Sociedad and Spain) 
Matija Nastasic (Manchester City and Serbia)

Nicolas Otamendi (Porto and Argentina)
Gerard Piqué (Barcelona and Spain)

Andrea Ranocchia (Inter and Italy)

Neven Subotic (Borussia Dortmund and Serbia)
Raphael Varane (Real Madrid and France)

Philipp Wollscheid (Bayer Leverkusen and Germany)

Rangliste 2012-13 - Full-backs

Philipp Lahm (Bayern Munich and Germany) 29 games, 0 goals ***

It’s hard to see how the season could have gone any better for Philipp Lahm. As well as skippering Bayern to an historic treble he personally enjoyed a wonderful vein of form, back in his preferred right-back slot. That he provided 11 assists in the Bundesliga alone, more than any other defender in Europe’s big leagues, showed that he hugely proficient going forward but it will have been the strength of the backline that really pleased the Germany captain.

Jordi Alba (Barcelona and Spain) 29 games, 2 goals **

The 2012-13 season was a strange one for Jordi Alba. One the one hand he effortlessly adapted to life at the Camp Nou, winning at a canter the Liga title that was Barcelona’s primary aim after last season’s painful setback. On the other, the manner of their crushing defeat to Bayern Munich appeared to mark a passing of the baton in European football and Alba, along with the rest of the Barca side, looked totally incapable of providing the much needed cutting edge. On the whole it was a positive start to his second spell in Barcelona but one with a bitter aftertaste.

Darijo Srna (Shakhtar Donetsk and Croatia) 25 games, 2 goals **

The 12 assists that Srna provided for Shakhtar in their exceptional league campaign underlined the quality he provides in the final third. Having spent a decade in Donestsk he has claimed an incredible seven titles and witnessed the transformation of the club from a provincial powerhouse to one of Europe’s most complete sides, capable on frightening the likes of Chelsea and Juventus. Nobody among the playing staff has done more in that time to set the club on the path and even at 31 the Croatian can expect many more successful years to come.

Leighton Baines (Everton and England) 38 games, 5 goals **

Another excellent season for Baines saw him secure his place among the Premier League’s best full-backs. An expert from deadballs and a superb crosser, the danger he poses on the left wing was best evidenced by the fact he created more chances than any other defender in Europe’s major leagues. Given his continued excellent form Roy Hodgson now has a difficult task ahead in selecting England’s best left-back with the Everton defender’s attacking instincts proving a worthy alternative to Ashley Cole’s defensive security.

Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City and Argentina) 30 games, 2 goals *

A barren campaign at the Etihad has seen the majority of last year’s most important figures dramatically wane in their influence. Yet while City’s glamour players have dropped off one of their less frequently recognized heroes has stepped up again. Zabaleta’s tireless industry down the right flank has been a key factor in the successes the club did enjoy, even if his needless sending off in the FA Cup final was the height of foolishness.

Filipe Luis (Atletico Madrid and Brazil) 32 games, 1 goal *

Having been omitted from the Brazil squad for a number of years, this season has marked a deserved return to the Selecao for Filipe Luis. A hugely adventurous attacking full-back his forays into the opposition half have been a consistent feature of Atleti’s build up play this season. Quick and an excellent crosser of the ball he may yet prove a worthy rival to Marcelo for a starting berth at the Confederations Cup.

Stefan Lichtsteiner (Juventus and Switzerland) 28 games, 4 goals *

It would have been easy to think that the arrival of Mauricio Isla in Turin might have spelt the end of Lichtsteiner as Juve’s first choice right-wingback. However, this season saw the Swiss international reaffirm his position in Antonio Conte’s side. Certainly the energy and drive he provides down the right flank would not be easily replaced and on current form there are few who could match his overall contribution.

Carlos Martinez (Real Sociedad and Spain) 29 games, 1 goal *

The story of the season in La Liga was the remarkable achievement of Real Sociedad. The club’s defensive solidity was the key to their success and the contribution of Martinez to that was vital. Equally effective going forward his raids down the right were a regular feature but it was the combination he formed in a hugely impressive back four that really set him apart from his rivals.

Mattia de Sciglio (AC Milan and Italy) 27 games, 0 goals *

One of the revelations of the season in Italy, De Sciglio has already drawn comparisons with Milan legend Paolo Maldini for his performances this year. That should be no real surprise given that he is a right-footed full-back who has often been deployed on the left in order to strengthen a fragile defence but it does show the regard in which he is held. The youngster still has a long way to go to justify such lofty expectations but in an ultimately successful year he has been an undoubted bright spot.

David Alaba (Bayern Munich and Austria) 23 games, 3 goals *

A meteoric rise for Alaba meant that a player who was unsure of his place in the Bayern side at the start of the season was being described as the best left-back in Europe by Graeme Souness by the time the Champions League final rolled around. That improvement has been a gradual one but Alaba is well suited to a team like FCB who are so committed to attack. With Philipp Lahm unable to play on both flanks at the same time there are many who wish the Austrian was available to play for Die Mannschaft at the next World Cup.

Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea and Serbia) 34 games, 5 goals *

Whether at right-back or in the centre of Chelsea’s defence Ivanovic proved again to be a rock at Stamford Bridge. Scorer of the winning goal in the Europa League final, his ability at attacking set pieces is the equal of anyone and he is a constant danger for opposing markers. Perhaps the most memorable moment of a remarkable season was being bitten by Luis Suarez at Anfield in April, an incident in which the Serb did exceptionally well to keep his cool.

Patrice Evra (Manchester United and France) 34 games, 4 goals *

Once the best left-back in Europe Evra declined markedly in recent seasons and was considered by many to be the weak link in a fine United side going into this campaign. This season that changed and while his defensive assuredness returned he also developed a previously hidden ability at attacking set pieces, impressive for a player of his stature. Four goals and five assists, with many coming at crucial times, meant that he certainly played his part in the title run in and subdued rumours that he was due to be replaced by Leighton Baines.

Daniel Carvajal (Bayer Leverkusen and Spain) 32 games, 1 goal *

Seven assists from right-back were one of the key reasons that many rated Carvajal among the best newcomers in the Bundesliga this year. The potential displayed by their youngster prompted Real Madrid to include a buyback option in the defender’s sale to Bayer Leverkusen and they now look set to exercise that after just one year in Germany. Now Carvajal may be well placed to usurp Alvaro Arbeloa for both club and country.

Maxwell (Paris Saint-Germain and Brazil) 33 games, 2 goals *

Having reined in some of his attacking instincts Maxwell has matured into one of the most reliable full-backs in Europe. Capable on the ball and a fine passer he has been a constant presence in Carlo Ancelotti’s defence offering stability and certainty in a frequently changing line-up . It would not be surprise though if PSG went in search of a more glamorous option this summer to bolster their Champions League assault.

Rafael (Manchester United and Brazil) 28 games, 3 goals *

Some observers doubted the temperament of Rafael before this season and questioned whether he had the defensive discipline to make it at a club of United’s stature. Those reservations have been comprehensively demolished this season as the youngster has improved leaps and bounds. While his twin Fabio was struggling at Loftus Road Rafael put in a year of great maturity and must now be a potential alternative to the fading Dani Alves.

Manuel Pasqual (Fiorentina and Italy) 35 games, 2 goals*

The threat posed by Pasqual down the left has been a major factor in the surprise success of Fiorentina this campaign. Handed license by Vincenzo Montella to get forward with abandon, his six assists were the most of any defender in Serie A. Although the Viola were pipped to third place on the final day of the season Pasqual showed why he has long been regarded among the best wing-backs in Italy.

Honourable mentions

Adriano (Barcelona and Brazil)
Kwadwo Asamoah (Juventus and Ghana)
Daley Blind (Ajax and Netherlands)
Ashley Cole (Chelsea and England)
Lucas Digne (Lille and France)
Mikel Gonzalez (Real Sociedad and Spain)
Daryl Janmaat (Feyenoord and Netherlands)
Jefferson (Estoril and Brazil)
Glen Johnson (Liverpool and England)
Juanfran (Atletico Madrid and Spain)
Sebastian Jung (Eintracht Frankfurt and Germany)
Dmitri Kombarov (Spartak Moscow and Russia)
Matthew Lowton (Aston Villa and England)
Nacho Monreal (Malaga/Arsenal and Spain)
Jeremy Morel (Marseille and France)
Bastian Oczipka (Eintracht Frankfurt and Germany)
Lukasz Piszczek (Borussia Dortmund and Poland)
Stefan Radu (Lazio and Romania)
Marcel Schmelzer (Borussia Dortmund and Germany)

Rangliste 2012-13 - Goalkeepers

Willy Caballero (Málaga and Argentina) 36 games, 0 goals **

Did any keeper perform quite so many heroics in so many big games this season as Caballero? Absolutely critical in Malaga’s Champions League run he also excelled in the most significant domestic matches making save after stunning save. Given the challenging circumstances that surrounded La Rosaleda the Argentine goalie performed real heroics in a supremely satisfying year.

Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus and Italy) 32 games, 0 goals **

Given the standards that Buffon has set during a phenomenal career this was not his best season. That he kept 19 clean sheets in the league shows quite how high the bar is set. The veteran keeper was widely criticized for David Alaba’s shock early goal in the Champions League quarter-finals but he remained as steady as ever in another authoritative season. Conceding just 19 goals in 32 Serie A appearances was evidence enough of his enduring quality.

Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich and Germany) 31 games, 0 goals **

The only criticism one can level at Neuer for this season is that he was simply not worked enough. Such was the quality of Bayern’s defence and midfield the German international was rarely called upon to repeat the heroics he so often showed at Schalke. When, like in the Champions League final, he was required to be at his best Neuer more than stepped up to the challenge and it is difficult to see a keeper of his age who can match the numerous attributes he offers to the Bavarians.

Thibaut Courtois (Atletico Madrid and Belgium) 37 games, 0 goals *

Only 21 years old but already staking a claim to be the world’s best goalkeeper, Courtois’ presence in the Atletico goal has been a core part of their exceptional season. For all the (deserved) attention devoted to the exploits of Falcao at the other end of the pitch, it has been their defence which has carried Atleti this season. The Belgian appears content to spend another season in Spain but it can only be a matter of time before Chelsea decide to recall such a potential gamechanger.

Rene Adler (Hamburg and Germany) 32 games, 0 goals *

A season of mixed fortunes for Hamburg has been one of great promise for Rene Adler. Although he conceded 51 goals in 32 games, including a remarkable nine in a thrashing at the hands of Bayern Munich, he was so often the difference maker in a struggling side. Few imagined that the move would prompt a return to the German national team but he now looks poised to battle for the place of Manuel Neuer’s understudy.

David de Gea (Manchester United and Spain) 28 games, 0 goals *

The first half of the season saw David de Gea facing pointed questions over whether he was yet ready to be the trusted No. 1 at Old Trafford. The fact that he was producing some miraculous saves behind a porous defence was overlooked and his deficiencies on crosses magnified. As the campaign wore on and the defensive issues ebbed away the ability of De Gea came again to the fore and underlined that he should be in situ for years to come.

Kevin Trapp (Eintracht Frankfurt and Germany) 26 games, 0 goals *

While Frankfurt fell away from the heady heights they hit at the start of the season it was still a remarkable year for a newly promoted side. In the early months of 2012-13 the entire side were in stellar form, but while others dropped away Trapp remained a cornerstone in an excellent defensive performance. Germany are spoilt for choice when it comes to promising young keepers but Trapp is certainly a worthy rival to the likes of Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Bernd Leno.

Federico Marchetti (Lazio and Italy) 33 games, 0 goals *

The importance of Federico Marchetti to a fine Lazio season cannot be overstated. With the Italian keeper between the posts his team conceded just 32 goals in 33 games, a defensive record that only Juventus clearly bettered. In the five matches that Marchetti missed the team allowed 10 goals and looked extremely fragile, proving his worth conclusively within an impressive defence.

Salvatore Sirigu (Paris Saint-Germain and Italy) 33 games, 0 goals *

Voted by his fellow professionals as the best keeper in France, Sirigu’s reliability was an enduring factor in PSG’s title victory. Tall and agile, the Italian keeper has few flaws and has offered an excellent foundation on which a fine campaign was founded. Only 26 he looks the natural successor for the national team to Gigi Buffon when the Juventus legend finally hangs up his gloves.

Samir Handanovic (Inter and Slovenia) 35 games, 0 goals *

At the halfway point of the season many felt that Inter were the most likely candidates to push Juventus all the way in Serie A. Instead the team collapsed in the spring and ended the year having let in 57 goals, only bottom club Pescara boasting a worse defensive record. That it wasn’t an even worse disaster was due principally to Handanovic who performed heroically in facing a barrage of shots on goal during a testing first season in Milan.

Mickael Landreau (Bastia and France) 38 games, 0 goals *

No goalkeeper in France this season has been tested more often than Landreau. Bastia can boast the worst defensive record in Ligue 1, but had it not been for the former France international they would surely have been facing relegation. Indeed Landreau’s form has been more than good enough to merit a deserved call up to the French national team for their summer internationals.


Fraser Forster (Celtic and England) 34 games, 0 goals *

In a season with Rangers banished to the fourth flight there was never any danger of Celtic failing to win the league. For that reason it was always going to be the Bhoys progress in other competitions on which their season would be judged. Forster’s European heroics, particularly against Barcelona, were critical in the team’s Champions League progress and while his dip in form in the league was of concern to fans it still marked a major achievement.

Honourable mentions

Asmir Begovic (Stoke City and Serbia)
Morgan de Sanctis (Napoli and Italy)
Brad Guzan (Aston Villa and USA)
Gorka Iraizoz (Athletic Bilbao and Spain)
Hugo Lloris (Tottenham Hotspur and France)
Steve Mandanda (Marseille and France)
Antonio Mirante (Parma and Italy)
Kenneth Vermeer (Ajax and Netherlands)
Roman Weidenfeller (Borussia Dortmund and Germany)

Rangliste Criteria 2012-13

This time last year I set out to emulate German magazine kicker, who have, since the 1950s, prepared a ratings system to evaluate the performance of players throughout the year. Initially limited to Germans based domestically it was in time widened to include foreigners in the Bundesliga and eventually German players based overseas. This list covers the entirety of the European season 2012-13 and updates the provisional rankings handed out in January.

The kicker writers have historically assessed the performances of players on a semi-annual basis and then categorized them into the following categories:

- World Class
- International Class
- Broader Circle
- In Focus

In order to simplify these (I am after all looking at the whole of Europe) I have amalgamated the bottom two categories into a single “National Class” but provide some honourable mentions of the players who came close but didn't quite make the main list.

Note: My rankings do not necessarily correlate with those of kicker. The magazine has never published the criteria that they work on in determining the level of performance, nor make clear how the ratings would tally with the rest of the world. As such a player that kicker deem to be international class may well end up in a different category under my rankings.

These rankings as ever are naturally subjective and in no way claim to be definitive. They should hopefully though be interesting and provide some food for thought. Many thanks go to the various people who have given me suggestions in this, they were hugely appreciated

Scope

These rankings apply to all players based in Europe in a given period. They focus primarily on domestic and European performances, with due consideration given to internationals but exclude continental tournaments such as the World Cup, European Championships and Copa America. Consideration is given to the calibre of competition and opposition faced to reflect the difficulty in obtaining performances. Therefore an outstanding performance in the Belgian league will count for less than one in the Champions League final.

Players are rewarded for competing to a high standard in multiple competitions and for maintaining consistency throughout the period. Where a player is injured for a period of time in a season it may prevent them demonstrating the necessary consistency to be classified as world or international class.

The rankings consider merely the performances made during the period in question. They do not look at the ability or past history of a player, only how they have played during the year studied. They do not assess the completeness or variety of talents a player demonstrates either, merely the level to which he influences the games played in.

Note: In any given season there may be no players performing to a world class level in a particular position, players do not become world class by default (ie the lack of performance by others) but by the performances they make.

All appearance and goal information provided relates only to domestic league performances.

Ratings

World Class *** – Performing consistently to an exceptional standard. Among the finest players in the world and performing at a level comparable with the very best in your position. (Guideline – 15-20 players a season)

International Class ** – Performing consistently to an excellent or sporadically to an exceptional standard. (Guideline – 20-30 players a season)

National Class * – Performing consistently to a very high standard or sporadically to an exceptional or excellent standard. (Guideline – 50-70 players a season)