Forwards:
Mesut Ozil
On the right of the three forwards is Mesut Ozil.
Since his breakthrough at the 2010 World Cup and subsequent move to Real Madrid, Ozil has been truly great for the club – and Cristiano Ronaldo, who he has a magnificent understanding with.
Ozil’s through balls have been a boon for the Portuguese superstar, who has thrived on the ammunition the German provides.
Ozil has also been crucial in Real Madrid’s incredibly rapid counterattacking play, and his pace, technical ability and creativity have enabled the Spanish capital club to keep pace with Barcelona in La Liga – and last season win them the championship.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is one of the best players in history, but unfortunately will likely only be remembered as the second best of his generation – behind Lionel Messi.
The Portugal captain has been an astonishing goalscorer for Real Madrid – in his 183 appearances for the club, he has scored 185 goals. The mantra of a good goalscoring record being a goal every two matches has been blown out the water by Ronaldo and Messi.
You can read a longer argument for why Ronaldo is the best player in the world here.
Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi has been hailed as the best player in the world in recent years – his four Ballon d’Or awards are the most won by any player.
He has been the best player of the current generation, but may also be the greatest in history – with a growing argument that he is actually a level above the likes of Pele and Diego Maradona.
Messi’s ability to dribble past opponents at will is mesmerising, and he plays with his head up, producing passes that no one else in the stadium could spot.
His ascent to the top has been astonishing – as has been his phenomenal consistency. In 2012 alone, he scored 91 goals – an unprecedented total.
You can read a longer case for Lionel Messi being the best player in the world here.
Full team:
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