20. Thiago Silva
Constantly lauded as the greatest centre back of his generation, the Brazilian has certainly done those credentials no harm following a successful season with Paris Saint Germain.
Part of the double deal that saw himself and Zlatan Ibrahimovic arrive from AC Milan last summer, he set about repaying the hefty fee by playing a starring role in bringing the Ligue 1 title back to the Parc des Princes after a 17 year wait.
The 28-year-old’s reading of the game and distribution from the back has made him a formidable opponent for years now, and it’s no surprise that Barcelona have been keeping a close eye on him with a view to making a bid this summer. The side did get to see him close up during the latter stages of the Champions League last summer.
Not content with just dominating at club level, though, Silva is virtually a guaranteed starter with the national team where he will line up alongside one of fellow CaughtOffside 50 inductees Dante or David Luiz.
PSG
Games: 39
Goals: 3
Assists: 22
BRAZIL
Games: 12
Goals: 0
Assists: 10
HONOURS: LIGUE 1, CONFEDERATIONS CUP