Rangliste 2012-13 - Strikers

Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG and Sweden) 34 games, 30 goals***

Winner of nine domestic titles in ten years across four leagues and six clubs, Zlatan just keeps on delivering. Everyone assumed that this season would be a cakewalk for PSG and yet without the influence of their Swedish striker the title challenge would have been a far fetched idea. In breaking the 30 goal barrier in the league he became the first man to do so in France since Jean-Pierre Papin in 1989-90 and finished a wonderful season on a high.

 

Edinson Cavani (Napoli and Uruguay) 35 games, 29 goals***

Cavani has shown signs that he merits a place among the top echelon of strikers for a number of years but this season he extinguished all doubts. Capable of scoring in every conceivable way he is truly the complete centre-forward. Talks already appear to be in progress to take the Uruguayan to Manchester City but he surely will not be short of suitors after an incredible campaign for Napoli.

 

Robert Lewandowski (Borussia Dortmund and Poland) 31 games, 24 goals ***

 

Arguably the most rounded centre-forward in the world, Lewandowski is someone who seemingly has the lot. A clinical finisher, great in the air and proficient at linking with the midfield there are precious few strikers who could succeed in so many systems. Although he shone last season this year he took his game to a new level and ten goals in the Champions League, four of which came in the destruction of Real Madrid in the semi-finals, showed that he can cope against the very best.

 

Radamel Falcao (Atletico Madrid and Colombia) 34 games, 28 goals ***

 

The decision of Falcao to depart Madrid in pursuit of riches offered by Monaco has led some to brand him a mercenary. However, given the ambition shown by the club from the principality so far the Colombian striker might yet be improving his chances of silverware. The second half of the season saw him slightly subdued in comparison with the wonderful way he began the year, but overall it still marked another remarkable term on the goalscoring front.

 

Robin van Persie (Manchester United and Netherlands) 38 games, 26 goals ***

 

Even at £24m Robin van Persie was the signing of the season in the Premier League. Nobody doubted his ability at Arsenal or that he would succeed at Old Trafford but the speed with which he settled and the importance of the goals he scored were paramount in ensuring that the title was secured with the minimum of fuss. Such was the comprehensive nature of his adaptation to life in Manchester that few Reds fans are overly concerned about the loss of Wayne Rooney, something that would have been almost inconceivable 12 months ago.

 

Stefan Kiessling (Bayer Leverkusen and Germany) 34 games, 25 goals **

While Joachim Low may not be a great admirer of the Leverkusen striker there is no doubt that he has enjoyed a fantastic season. Tall, strong and athletic the centre-forward was the focal point of an excellent side and his ability to lead the line on his own makes him a highly prized commodity. His style of play may not be the most fashionable in the modern game but there is no denying he is highly effective.

 

Antonio di Natale (Udinese and Italy) 33 games, 23 goals **

It has become a cliché now to talk about the evergreen nature of Di Natale. For the fourth season in a row he has topped the 20 goal mark and he was again centre stage as Udinese staged a miraculous revival after Christmas. The veteran has now targeted 200 career Serie A goals requiring another 24 to be scored. In this sort of form he could achieve that by the end of next season.

Wilfried Bony (Vitesse Arnhem and Ivory Coast) *

The player of the season in the Eredivisie, Bony enjoyed a phenomenal year for Vitesse. Dutch defences were simply unable to cope with the combination of power and technique that the Ivorian offers and his combination with Marco Van Ginkel brought out the best of both players. Already well travelled at the age of 24 his physicality and height would look to be tailor made for the Premier League and may well draw interest this summer.  

 

Jackson Martinez (Porto and Colombia) 27 games, 26 goals *

The Porto scouting network just keeps unearthing top level players. With the departure of Hulk in the summer to Zenit, the Dragao turned to Colombian hitman Martinez and he proved a resounding success. With 26 goals in just 27 games he hit the ground running and ended the season as the top scorer in Portugal. Given Porto’s history of lucrative sales it may not be long before he’s on the move again.

 

Burak Yilmaz (Galatasaray and Turkey) 30 games 24 goals*

Despite the arrival of Wesley Sneijder and Didier Drogba there was no doubt who the star of Galatasaray’s season was. While he didn’t quite match his goal haul from his final season at Trabzonspor, Yilmaz ability to perform in both the Turkish league and the Champions League meant his value increased hugely during the season. A powerful bull of a striker, his combination with Drogba is a daunting prospect for any defender in Europe next year.

 

Graziano Pelle (Feyenoord and Italy) 29 games, 27 goals *

 

Until this year Pelle was a striker who had long shown promise but rarely scored the numbers of goals that his talent hinted at. After a disappointing spell at Parma he finally found his shooting boots in the Eredivisie and looked unstoppable for Feyenoord. Admittedly, performances in the Dutch league can be misleading with the likes of Alfonso Alves unable to replicate his exploits in tougher surroundings. A permanent move to the Rotterdam giants should give the Italian the opportunity to continue his ongoing renaissance.

 

Roberto Soldado (Valencia and Spain) 35 games, 24 goals*

 

Where now for Soldado? The financial difficulties faced by Valencia have forced them to sell their best players in each of the last few seasons and now, having missed out on Champions League football, the impetus is stronger than ever. There is no question about his quality, having scored consistently throughout his time at the Mestalla and demonstrated his ability as a first rate finisher.

 

Christian Benteke (Aston Villa and Belgium) 34 games, 19 goals *

When Christian Benteke arrived at Villa Park even those who had watched him play in Belgium widely felt that his £10m price tag looked steep. By the end of the year it had proved a bargain with the powerful striker one of the few bright spots in a wretched Villa season. Without the goals of the Belgian international the relegation battle would surely have been significantly tighter and he now looks an obvious target for the likes of Arsenal and Spurs.

Stephan El Shaarawy (AC Milan and Italy) 37 games, 16 goals *

Unstoppable until January, the arrival of Mario Balotelli forced a major change in the role played by El-Shaarawy. Shunted out onto the flanks he was nowhere near as potent as he had been when the season started, but his excellent pace and fine dribbling meant that he remains a threat. Given Milan’s history for selling their best players in recent seasons, talks of a potential move may not be too wide of the mark.

Alvaro Negredo (Sevilla and Spain) 36 games, 25 goals *

With all four goals in a thrilling 4-3 win on the last day of the season Negredo singlehandedly cost Valencia their Champions League place. A classic striker in the English style it’s no wonder that West Ham looked at the Sevilla star as a potential replacement (and major upgrade) on Andy Carroll. His power and nose for goal made him the highest scoring Spaniard in La Liga this season and he should surely be able to pick a club with rather loftier ambitions.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (St Etienne and Gabon) 37 games 19 goals *

Only 23 but the Gabon forward has already announced his huge talent to the world. An excellent season for St Etienne saw the youngster play mainly through the centre but also on the right and this versatility, while maintaining the level of performance, bodes well for the future. Tall, quick and inventive his chance creation was almost as impressive as his finishing. An excellent campaign that hints there is more to come.

Mario Mandzukic (Bayern Munich and Croatia) 24 games, 15 goals *

Not the most graceful or elegant of players Mandzukic was an essential factor in Bayern’s success this season. To take the place of a striker who scored 28 goals in the league last season takes some doing but such was the Croatian’s impact few felt that Mario Gomez was missed by the end of the year. The workrate and energy displayed by Mandzukic as well as his ability in the air meant that his lower goal tally was a price worth paying for a more effective team.

Honourable mentions

Aritz Aduriz (Athletic Bilbao and Spain)

Jeremie Aliadiere (Lorient and France)

Jozy Altidore (AZ Alkmaar and USA)

Carlos Bacca (Club Brugges and Colombia)

Mario Balotelli (AC Milan and Italy)

Dimitar Berbatov (Fulham and Bulgaria)

Oscar Cardozo (Benfica and Paraguay)

Dario Cvitanich (Nice and Argentina)

Rafik Djebbour (Olympiakos and Algeria) 
Alfred Finnbogason (Heerenveen and Iceland)

Bafetimbi Gomis (Lyon and France)
Phillip Hosiner (Austria Vienna and Austria)

Vedad Ibisevic (Stuttgart and Bosnia)

Miroslav Klose (Lazio and Germany)

Rickie Lambert (Southampton and England)

Romelu Lukaku (West Bromwich Albion and Belgium)

Pablo Osvaldo (Roma and Italy)

Rangliste 2012-13 - Forwards

Lionel Messi (Barcelona and Argentina) 32 games, 46 goals***

The fact that some people regarded this as a disappointing season for Messi shows just how far he has raised the bar. Just as telling was the fact that even at 4-0 down in theChampions League semi-final against Bayern few dared to rule out a Barca comeback if the Argentine was fully fit. During a spell that saw Messi score against every single La Liga team consecutively there were those who claimed he was out of form. Those are the challenges faced by the greatest player in the world but there was no denying that this was another season that will go down in history as among the best ever.

Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid and Portugal) 34 games, 34 goals ***

Another season in which Ronaldo excelled but ultimately came up slightly short. Top scorer in the Champions League, a goal a game in La Liga and the Portuguese forward still was left ruing a season in which the biggest prizes eluded him. That should not take away from a magical season which, as with Messi, can only be considered even remotely disappointing by a player as consistently excellent as Ronaldo.

Luis Suarez (Liverpool and Uruguay) 33 games, 23 goals***

That Luis Suarez’s season will be best remembered for his biting of Branislav Ivanovic is something of a tragedy. For in an often pedestrian, sometimes brilliant Liverpool side he proved himself to be a cut above his teammates. Though the Reds could only finish in a disappointing seventh place in the league the Uruguayan was the equal of any player in the league with his exceptional ability on the ball and markedly improved finishing.

Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich and Germany) 28 games, 13 goals ***

After a 2010 in which Muller announced his talents to the world it was perhaps inevitable that there would be a period of consolidation. This year saw him storm back in to form, demonstrating quite why expectations had been so high. A stellar autumn was consolidated on in the spring and he was, along with Ribery, the principle reason that Bayern were so potent going forward in the league. Quite what role Pep Guardiola has in mind for the young star is unclear but he will surely be central to Bayern’s future.

Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund and Germany) 32 games, 14 goals **

Reus’s first season in Westphalia was perhaps not as spectacular as his last at Borussia Moenchengladbach. With an all-star cast around him there was less onus placed on the young attacker to carry the side, but with that freedom came some wonderful interplay, particularly with Robert Lewandowski and Mario Goetze. The departure of that pair will place greater responsibility on the shoulders of Reus, but based on past experience he should be well placed to cope with it.  

Francesco Totti (Roma and Italy) 34 games, 12 goals **

When football historians look back over the last 20 years and remember the truly great players of this era how many will give Francesco Totti his dues? The Roma captain furthered his position in the pantheon of greats by overtaking the legendary Gunnar Nordahl to sit second in the all-time top goalscorers list for Serie A, sitting behind only Silvio Piola. The magnitude of that achievement will only be realized in hindsight but it capped off another superb campaign for a tremendous player.

Erik Lamela (Roma and Argentina) 33 games, 15 goals **

A hugely frustrating season for Roma was one of significant development for Lamela. The Argentine confirmed his status as one of the brightest prospects in the game and as arguably the best dribbler in Serie A, flourishing under Zdenek Zeman’s attack minded tutelage. It had previously been unclear whether the former River Plate star would be able to convert his potential into performance but this year demonstrated that he is more than up to the challenge.

Michu (Swansea and Spain) 35 games, 18 goals *

One of the best signings in Europe this season, Michu was outstanding in the opening months of the campaign surprising many with quite how quickly he adapted to life in the Premier League. Some of that credit should go to Michael Laudrup who was instrumental in helping the Spaniard adjust but while his performances tailed off after Swansea had claimed the League Cup it still marked a memorable year for the Jacks. Did you know he only cost £2m?

Stevan Jovetic (Fiorentina and Montenegro) 31 games, 13 goals *

Widely rumoured to be the top transfer target for Juventus this summer, it’s obvious to see what the young forward would offer the Italian champions. Intelligent movement, graceful on the ball and capable of expertly linking attack and midfield the Montenegrin prodigy many now have outgrown his surroundings in Florence. On the international stage his team currently lie top of a challenging qualifying group and could yet be making their World Cup debut in Brazil.

Ruben Castro (Real Betis and Spain) 34 games, 18 goals *

A prolific season for Castro has seen him shoot up the goalscorers’ charts in Spain. The former Deportivo forward has enjoyed the finest year of his career in Seville, though he has frequently been deployed in a variety of roles. Quick and nimble he’s a fine finisher but whether he can repeat such a rich vein of form so late in his career is unclear.

Lima (Benfica and Brazil) 27 games, 20 goals *

It has been a long and slow rise to the top for Lima. After jumping from team to team in his native Brazil he moved to Portugal with Belenenses four years ago and joined Braga a season later. Having now fought his way to the top of Portuguese football it is only now, at 29, that he has really hit top form. Arguably Benfica’s most important player this year, particularly domestically where his goals proved invaluable.

Andre Schurrle (Bayer Leverkusen and Germany) 34 games, 11 goals *

Apparently set to join Chelsea in the summer, their longstanding interest in the young German star looks now to be coming to a conclusion. It certainly appears to be a well judged acquisition with Schurrle ideally suited to joining the attacking triumvirate of Hazard, Mata and Oscar in supporting a central striker. If this proves to be his final season at Leverkusen he’ll have signed off in style, delivering a fully deserved third place finish.

Honourable mentions
Iago Aspas (Celta Vigo and Spain)

Antonio Cassano (Inter and Italy)

Siem de Jong (Ajax and Netherlands)
Samuel Eto'o (Anzhi and Cameroon)

Sebastian Giovinco (Juventus and Italy)

Max Kruse (Freiburg and Germany)

Alex Meier (Eintracht Frankfurt and Germany)

Ahmed Musa (CSKA Moscow and Nigeria)

Lukas Podolski (Arsenal and Germany)
Bryan Ruiz (Fulham and Costa Rica)
Andre Schurrle (Bayer Leverkusen and Germany)
Alain Traore (Lorient and Burkina Faso)
Theo Walcott (Arsenal and England)

 

Rangliste 2012-13 - Wingers

Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich and France) 37 games, 10 goals ***

Even among Bayern Munich’s stellar cast there was a stand out performer this year. The class of Ribery, his ability to beat a man and to deliver a cross or pass of exceptional accuracy was integral to the team’s all conquering campaign. In delivering such a series of performances the Frenchman confirmed his place as the world’s top winger as well as one of the most widely underrated players in the game.

Gareth Bale (Tottenham and Wales) 33 games, 21 goals ***

In previous years Bale flatted to deceive, showing flashes of brilliance but lacking the consistency to fully merit much of the hype surrounding him. In 2012-3 the Welshman proved time and again that he is a matchwinner of undoubted quality, unleashing some exceptional strikes from the edge of the box to carry Spurs so close to the Champions League. Given the expected interest from Europe’s top teams it is no wonder that Daniel Levy has moved quickly to try and tie his most prized asset to a lucrative long term contract.

Dimitri Payet (Lille and France) 38 games, 12 goals **

After two excellent years Lille never looked likely to challenge for the Ligue 1 title after the departure of Eden Hazard. However, while the team didn’t hit the heights one player who did deliver was Dimitri Payet. Featuring in every match in the league he supplied 12 goals and 13 assists to ensure that they absence of the Belgian winger was not as acutely felt as it might have been.

Jakub Blaszczykowski (Borussia Dortmund and Poland) 27 games, 11 goals **

A hive of energy and industry in the Dortmund midfield, the importance of the Polish winger grew as the season wore on. Providing 10 assists in the Bundesliga in addition to his 11 goals was evidence of his ability to deliver but he is also unusually diligent for a wide player, tracking back and offering compatriot Piszczek with ample cover. The departure of Dortmund’s stars shouldn’t trouble Blaszczykowski who has got better and better over the course of recent seasons.

Carlos Vela (Real Sociedad and Mexico) 35 games, 14 goals **

The troubles that Vela had in establishing himself at Arsenal are a distant memory now. The Mexican starlet underlined his versatility and ability in a superb season in which he stood out as the key attacking cog in Sociedad’s well oiled machine. The Basque club enjoyed a remarkable year

Piti (Rayo Vallecano and Spain) 35 games, 18 goals *

Certainly not among the most well known names in La Liga, Piti has nevertheless been one of the most consistently outstanding figures this season. The goals that he has offered have powered Rayo Vallecano’s encouraging campaign and without his promptings from attacking midfield their league position might have looked very different. Admittedly he can be wasteful of possession but with that number of goals not many complaints can be voiced.

Eden Hazard (Chelsea and Belgium) 34 games, 9 goals *

A season that started and ended particularly brightly but dipped in the middle was one that can bring some satisfaction to Hazard. His nomination for PFA Player of the Year was an aberration but he looked excellent at times and should certainly provide value for the considerable sum Chelsea spent on the winger. Next year he needs to focus again on the simpler things but after a season of acclimatization in the league don’t bet against him recreating his Lille heroics in the future.

James Rodriguez (Porto and Colombia) 24 games, 10 goals *

Now set to join Monaco for next season it has been another period of progress for the young Colombian. Frequently deployed behind his compatriot Jackson Martinez in a central role rather than wide on the flank he now seems to have gained the maturity necessary to play in the middle of the pitch. The move to Ligue 1 should only prove a gentle step up from the Portuguese Superliga and it would be no surprise to see a player of such talents on the move again in the near future.

Juan Cuadrado (Fiorentina and Colombia) 36 games, 5 goals *

In an era where inverted wingers are the norm Cuadrado’s willingness to take on an opposing defender is refreshing. Although ostensibly a wing-back for Fiorentina he loves to get forward when offered the opportunity and he provides an interesting balance to the more defensively adept Manuel Pasqual in the Fiorentina midfield. Part of an excellent generation of Colombian stars it’s easy to see why many people are tipping them as dark horses for next summer’s World Cup.

Dries Mertens (PSV Eindhoven and Belgium) 29 games, 16 goals *

Surely now it is only a matter of time before someone takes a chance on Mertens. Not that it will be much of a gamble given that he provided 17 assists to go along with his 16 goals in the Eredivisie. At 26 the overwhelming majority of players of this class have long flown the Dutch nest and  the completeness of his game plus his notable ability at set-pieces means that he should be able to cope in a more challenging league.

Willian (Shakhtar Donestsk/Anzhi  and Brazil) 21 games, 3 goals *

A January move to arguably the world’s richest team spoke volumes for the performances that Willian had delivered during his time at Shakhtar. If anything was a surprise it was the Brazilian’s willingness to move to Dagestan rather than wait and see if a more glamourous move arose in the summer. There’s no doubting that on form he is a magical player to watch, nimble footed and possessing a fabulous array of gifts. Yet to set the world alight in Russia, the team will be hoping for better than third place next season.

Honourable mentions

Romain Alessandrini (Rennes and France)

Andre Ayew (Marseille and Ghana)

Eric Bautheac (Nice and France)
Mbark Boussoufa (Anzhi and Morocco)

Daniel Caligiuri (Freiburg and Germany)

Antonio Candreva (Lazio and Italy)

Alessio Cerci (Torino and Italy)

Gael Danic (Valenciennes and France)

Julian Draxler (Schalke and Germany)

Patrick Ebert (Valladolid and Germany)

Jefferson Farfan (Schalke 04 and Peru)

Joaquin (Malaga and Spain)

Lica (Estoril and Portugal)

Ricardo (Guimaraes and Portugal)

Markel Susaeta (Athletic Bilbao and Spain)

Florian Thauvin (Bastia and France)

Arda Turan (Atletico Madrid and Turkey)

 

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)