25. Marc Cucurella (Chelsea & Spain)

Marc Cucurella didn’t have the best season at Chelsea, but at the World Cup he showed the world what he’s capable of. He was the best left back of the tournament and assisted twice in the round of 32. He was also only dribbled past twice in the whole tournament and didn’t get dribbled past a single time in the knockout stages. Cucurella will be taking his talents to the Spanish capital this Summer, as his performances have secured him a move to Real Madrid.

24. Unai Simón (Athletic Club & Spain)

Unai Simón won the Golden Glove of the World Cup and only conceded one goal in the whole tournament. He was crucial for Spain, giving them the security they needed to be able to play out from the back and was rightfully named the best goalkeeper of the tournament.

23. Julián Álvarez (Atlético de Madrid & Argentina)

The Argentine striker had an inconsistent season, as he went scoreless for a period of up to two months. Nevertheless, he showed up when it mattered most, as he scored ten goals in the Champions League, a goal in the Copa del Rey Final and a spectacular goal in the quarterfinals of the World Cup against Switzerland. He scored in every knockout stage of the Champions League up until Atlético was eliminated in the semifinals, including a beautiful free kick against FC Barcelona in the quarterfinals.

22. Declan Rice (Arsenal & England)

Declan Rice was Arsenal’s engine during their triumphant Premier League campaign, dictating the tempo and leading them to a Champions League final. He also finished third in the World Cup with England, scoring and assisting in their last match.

21. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid & England)

Jude Bellingham was one of the best players of the World Cup, scoring seven goals and putting up timeless performances in the knockout stages. He scored a brace in the round of sixteen against Mexico and another brace in the quarterfinals against Norway. He didn’t win any trophies this season, but he’ll be looking to guide Real Madrid back to winning silverware next season.

Image credits: 1,2: Bryan Berlin-CC BY SA 4.0, 3: Courtesy of LaLiga Content Hub, 4: Yantsimages-CC BY SA 4.0, 5: ©David Ramos / UEFA via Getty Images