47. Fernandinho
One of only two players in the CaughtOffside 50 to play in the all conquering Shakhtar side during 2012-13, Fernandinho has established himself as one of Europe’s most revered centre midfielders over the past year and has seen the reward in a big money move to Manchester City this summer.
Part of Donetsk’s Brazilian contingent, the 28-year-old was the conductor of a Shakhtar side that once again romped to the championship in the Ukraine – claiming a league and cup double, as well as the Super Cup to boot. He is a superb reader of the game and dominant tackler, and is just as impressive directing the way the side plays and creates chances – striking up 10 assists last term.
Shakhtar also lit up the Champions League group stages and the Brazilian controlled the midfield in three of the four matches against Chelsea and Juventus.
His one blight of the season was being harshly overlooked by Brazil for the Confederations Cup earlier this summer, but his €35 million transfer to Manchester City will surely give him every chance of being in the squad for the big show next year.
SHAKHTAR DONETSK
Games: 36
Goals: 6
Assists: 10
BRAZIL
Games: 1
Goals: 0
Assists: 0
HONOURS: Ukrainian Super Cup, Ukrainian Premier League, Ukrainian Cup