15. Luis Díaz (FC Bayern & Colombia)
Luis Díaz had the best season of his career, as he won the domestic double with FC Bayern and reached the Champions League semifinals. He scored 26 goals and provided 19 assists across all competitions, which adds up to 45 goal contributions in his first season in Germany.
14. Vitinha (PSG & Portugal)
Vitinha once again played an essential role in PSG’s Champions League triumph, as they became the first ever French team to win back-to-back European Cups. The Portuguese midfielder dictated the tempo of the game and was the lead director during long periods of possession. Unfortunately, he had an underwhelming performance at the World Cup and could’ve been higher on the list if it wasn’t for that.
13. João Neves (PSG & Portugal)
João Neves has formed one of the best midfield duos in Europe alongside Vitinha. They’re the most consistently selected midfielders by Luis Enrique and bring different qualities to the pitch. João Neves has really improved his goalscoring ability and instincts in the box to be at the right place at the right time. At just 21 years old, he’s won two Champions League titles, is looking to complete the three-peat this season and is wanted by all big clubs in Europe.
12. Nuno Mendes (PSG & Portugal)
Nuno Mendes was the best left-back in the world for the second consecutive year. He won his second Champions League and had a solid World Cup with Portugal, even though they didn’t make it past the round of sixteen. Nuno Mendes’ ability to man mark players like Lamine Yamal makes him a truly special defender in today’s game.
11. Pau Cubarsí (FC Barcelona & Spain)
At just 19 years old, Pau Cubarsí won the World Cup and was named Young Player of the tournament. He was the best centre-back at the World Cup and showed great maturity and decision-making for his age. The Spanish defender also won his second LaLiga title with FC Barcelona.
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