48. James Rodriguez
The 22-year-old has been lauded as Colombia’s most talented player since Carlos Valderrama in the ’90s, and it’s easy to see why.
His trickery and pace made him one of the key reasons for Porto’s good form last season, with two victories made even sweeter by the fact that they were able to pip cross city rivals Benfica Portuguese Primeira Liga in what was a breathless encounter from start to finish.
Not only did his brilliant domestic form catch the attention, his exploits in the Champions League ensured that Porto were once again featured in the latter stages – his winner against PSG in the group stages being a particular highlight.
French big spenders Monaco have shelled out €45 million for him this summer, along with his Porto teammate Joao Moutinho, and though the Principality club won’t be competing in any European competitions this season, their ambition has been outlined by their activity in the transfer market.
Colombia should also be incredibly fun to watch at next year’s World Cup as he’ll be lining up alongside fellow CaughtOffside 50 entrants Radamel Falcao and Jackson Martinez.
PORTO
Games: 34
Goals: 11
Assists: 13
COLOMBIA
Games: 7
Goals: 1
Assists: 2
HONOURS: Primera Liga, Portuguese Supercup