CaughtOffside » Champions League

Bayern Munich Vs Borussia Dortmund: 2013 Champions League Final Preview, Live Streaming, Line-Ups, Match Facts, Team News and Betting

Mr Neutral — Sat, 25 May 2013 07:41:46 +0000

German giants go head to head at Wembley in the Champions League Final.

Check in to Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich - 2013 UEFA Champions League Final

Live Stream

Click link below for Bayern Munich vs Borussia Dortmund Live Streaming

Bayern Munich vs Borussia Dortmund Live Streaming

Betting

Claim your free bet and check the current Champions League odds with Bet365

Preview

The home of English football will reverberate to the roar of German voices on Saturday when Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund collide at Wembley Stadium in the first all-Bundesliga final in Champions League history.

It is only two years since Barcelona confirmed their status as Europe's pre-eminent side by outclassing Manchester United in the same arena to win the 2011 tournament, but the way that Bayern and Dortmund have torn through this season's competition suggests a new continental order is asserting itself.

Bayern left Barca in ruins with an incredible 7-0 aggregate win in the semi-finals, while Dortmund's 4-1 defeat of Real Madrid in the same round left the football world open-mouthed in amazement.

Irrespective of the result, it is certain to be a monumental evening for German football, but the two sides approach the game driven by very different motivations.

For Bayern, the game represents an opportunity to make amends for painful final defeats in 2010 and, in particular, 2012, when a heart-breaking penalty shoot-out loss to Chelsea was played out before a crowd of horrified and disbelieving fans at their own Allianz Arena.

Dortmund, the 1997 champions, yearn to inflict further misery upon Bayern, who have gravely undermined their opponents' attempts to establish themselves as creditable long-term rivals by snatching away star playmaker Mario Goetze in a sensational 37 million euros (£31.7 million, $47.8 million) transfer.

A hamstring injury to Goetze has reduced the risk of diplomatic embarrassment on Saturday, but Bayern are also believed to lead the race for Dortmund's Polish striker Robert Lewandowski, who put Madrid to the sword with an extraordinary four-goal haul in the first leg of their semi-final.

Goalkeeper Roman Weidenfeller has tried to downplay the significance of Goetze's injury by pointing to the 2012 German Cup final, when Dortmund thrashed Bayern 5-2 in his absence.

"It goes without saying that with him we have a different quality," he said. "But everything shouldn't rest on him. In the DFB-Pokal final in 2012, Mario also didn't play."

After losing five times in a row to Dortmund during the Ruhr club's back-to-back Bundesliga title successes in 2011 and 2012, Bayern have redressed the balance this season, avoiding defeat in all four of their most recent contests en route to a nigh-on flawless triumph in the German title race.

Saturday's game will be the 101st competitive meeting between the sides and after seven encounters over the last two seasons, Bayern manager Jupp Heynckes believes there is little scope for sleight of hand.

"Both teams know each other very well, both trainers are fully informed about the opponent, so there are no secrets," he said.

Heynckes can become only the fourth coach to win the competition with two different clubs, having previously led Madrid to their eighth Champions League title in 1998.

It will, however, be the 68-year-old's final match in the dug-out.

He has announced his retirement after former Barcelona coach Pep Guardiola was appointed to succeed him, despite a phenomenal campaign that could end with Bayern claiming their first ever treble of league, German Cup and Champions League honours.

""We've taken a massive stride towards perfection, and we're aiming for a perfect performance in the final," said midfielder Bastian Schweinsteiger, whose side will tackle Stuttgart in the German Cup final on June 1. "If we play to our potential, it's very hard for anyone to win against us."

Nine years after almost going bust, Dortmund hope to repeat their shock 1997 success, when a young Lars Ricken, now the club's youth team co-ordinator, came off the bench to seal a 3-1 win over Juventus at Munich's Olympiastadion with an audacious 25-yard chip.

Juergen Klopp's side have charmed neutrals with their breathless counter-attacking football over the last three seasons and the likeable 45-year-old Dortmund manager hopes their rise has not left the impartial observer unmoved.

"We are a club, not a company, but it depends on which kind of story the neutral fan wants to hear," he told British newspaper The Guardian.

"If he respects the story of Bayern, and how much they have won since the 1970s, he can support them. But if he wants the new story, the special story, it must be Dortmund."

Aside from Goetze's confirmed absence, Dortmund also have concerns over the fitness of former Bayern centre-back Mats Hummels, who injured his ankle in Saturday's 2-1 loss to Hoffenheim.

Bayern are missing long-term injury victims Holger Badstuber and Toni Kroos, but unlike 12 months ago, when they were without Badstuber, David Alaba and Luiz Gustavo due to suspension against Chelsea, they are otherwise at full strength.

Team News

Borussia Dortmund playmaker Mario Gotze has been ruled out of the Champions League final against his future club Bayern Munich with a hamstring injury.

Gotze, 20, has not played since hurting his thigh in last month's semi-final second-leg meeting with Real Madrid.

Dortmund right-back Lukasz Piszczek will play before he has hip surgery, while striker Robert Lewandowski, 24, may play his final game for the club.

Bayern are at full strength, with long-term absentee Holger Badstuber out.

Predicted Line-Ups

Probable starting line-ups in the Champions League final between Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich at Wembley on Saturday:

Bayern Munich: (4-2-3-1)

Manuel Neuer; Philipp Lahm (c), Jerome Boateng, Dante, David Alaba; Bastian Schweinsteiger, Javi Martinez; Arjen Robben, Thomas Mueller, Franck Ribery, Mario Mandzukic

Coach: Jupp Heynckes

Borussia Dortmund (4-2-3-1)

Roman Weidenfeller (c); Lukasz Piszczek, Neven Subotic, Mats Hummels, Marcel Schmelzer; Sven Bender, Ilkay Gundogan; Jakub Blaszczykowski, Marco Reus, Kevin Grosskreutz; Robert Lewandowski.

Coach: Juergen Klopp

Referee: Nicola Rizzoli (ITA)

Paths to Wembley

BORUSSIA DORTMUND (GER)

Group D (played, won, drawn, lost, goals for, goals against, points)

Borussia Dortmund 6 4 2 0 11 5 14

Real Madrid 6 3 2 1 15 9 11

Ajax Amsterdam 6 1 1 4 8 16 4

Manchester City 6 0 3 3 7 11 3

Round of 16

Shakhtar Donetsk (UKR) 2 (Srna 31, Douglas Costa 68) Borussia Dortmund 2 (Lewandowski 41, Hummels 87)

Borussia Dortmund 3 (Felipe Santana 31, Goetze 37, Blaszczykowski 59) Shakhtar Donetsk 0

Dortmund win 5-2 on aggregate

Quarter-finals

Malaga (ESP) 0 Borussia Dortmund 0

Borussia Dortmund 3 (Lewandowski 40, Reus 90+1, Felipe Santana 90+2) Malaga 2 (Joaquin 25, Eliseu 82)

Dortmund win 3-2 on aggregate

Semi-finals

Borussia Dortmund 4 (Lewandowski 8, 50, 55, 67-pen) Real Madrid (ESP) (Ronaldo 43)

Real Madrid 2 (Benzema 82, Sergio Ramos 88) Borussia Dortmund 0

Dortmund win 4-3 on aggregate

BAYERN MUNICH (GER)

Group F (played, won, drawn, lost, goals for, goals against, points)

Bayern Munich 6 4 1 1 15 7 13

Valencia 6 4 1 1 12 5 13

BATE 6 2 0 4 9 15 6

Lille OSC 6 1 0 5 4 13 3

Round of 16

Arsenal (ENG) 1 (Podolski 55) Bayern Munich 3 (Kroos 7, Mueller 21, Mandzukic 77)

Bayern Munich 0 Arsenal 2 (Giroud 3, Koscielny 85)

Bayern go through on away goals

Quarter-finals

Bayern Munich 2 (Alaba 1, Mueller 63) Juventus (ITA) 0

Juventus 0 Bayern Munich 2 (Mandzukic 64, Pizarro 90+1)

Bayern win 4-0 on aggregate

Semi-finals

Bayern Munich 4 (Mueller 25, 82, Gomez 49, Robben 73) Barcelona (ESP) 0

Barcelona 0 Bayern Munich 3 (Robben 48, Gique 72-og, Mueller 76)

Bayern win 7-0 on aggregate

STAT-ATTACK

Borussia Dortmund have won the Champions League on one previous occasion, beating Juventus 3-1 to claim the trophy in 1997.

Bayern Munich are seeking to win their fifth European Cup and join Liverpool as the joint-third most successful team in the competition's history, behind AC Milan and Real Madrid.

The Bavarians are unbeaten against BVB in all four of the teams' meeting this season, drawing 1-1 twice in the Bundesliga, and beating their rivals 2-1 and 1-0 in the Supercup and Pokal respectively.

The only previous all-German final in the history of European club competition was in the 1980 Uefa Cup final, when Eintracht Frankfurt beat Borussia Monchengladbach on away goals after recording a 3-3 draw over two legs.

Betting

Check the latest Champions League Final odds with Bet365 and claim your free bet

Top Ten Best Players Of the 2012/13 Champions League Season

Mark Brus — Fri, 24 May 2013 18:46:48 +0000

Ten of the stand-out performers in this season's competition.

Check in to Borussia Dortmund vs Bayern Munich - 2013 UEFA Champions League Final

10. Fernandinho (Shakhtar Donetsk)

Despite only being in the competition for a relatively short time, Fernandinho's excellent displays for Ukranian side Shakhtar Donetsk have not gone unnoticed. The Brazilian midfielder was in fine form for his side as they battled through a difficult group containing both Chelsea and Juventus, doing well to finish second ahead of last season's Champions League winners. The 28-year-old is now hot property and said to be a top transfer target for Manchester City this summer.

9. Arturo Vidal (Juventus)

Arturo Vidal and Juventus were somewhat overrun in the quarter-finals by tournament favourites Bayern Munich, though that is no insult. The Chilean midfielder still played a key part in Antonio Conte's side emerging from a challenging group, scoring home and away against reigning champions Chelsea. Now a target for Manchester United and Real Madrid, the 26-year-old finished the tournament with three goals and two assists from midfield, following some great performances in Serie A to show he can also do it on the biggest stage.

8. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG)

Zlatan Ibrahimovic became the first ever player to score for six different clubs in the Champions League or European Cup this season, netting three times for French side PSG, who had a decent run to the quarter-finals before being cruelly eliminated on away goals by Barcelona. The talented Swedish forward is also the top assist provider of the tournament so far, with seven, showing his all-round quality in this new-look PSG team.

7. Lionel Messi (Barcelona)

It may have been a disappointing season by Barcelona's standards - they only won La Liga and made it to the Champions League semi-finals - but Messi has still managed an impressive tally of eight goals in eleven games, despite being forced to play through injury in the club's humiliating semi-final defeat to finalists Bayern Munich. The Argentine's finest display probably came as he inspired Barca to a great comeback against AC Milan, scoring two beautiful goals early on at the Nou Camp to level the aggregate score at 2-2, eventually leading to a thumping 4-0 win on the night. He has been voted Man of the Match five times, more than anyone else in Europe this season.

6. Burak Yilmaz (Galatasaray)

This talented Turkish striker burst onto the scene in Champions League football this season, scoring an impressive eight goals in the tournament, behind only Cristiano Ronaldo and Robert Lewandowski. His fine performances were not enough to help Galatasaray past Real Madrid in the quarter-finals, but he could now be snapped up by one many admirers such as Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool after showing himself to be a lethal finisher at the highest level.

5. Mario Goetze (Borussia Dortmund)

This superb young player will sadly miss this much-anticipated Champions League final against his future side Bayern Munich due to injury. The 20-year-old has certainly been the young player of the tournament, but deserves his place among the rest of Europe's best as he is truly a world class performer. The Dortmund playmaker has scored two goals and provided five assists to guide his side to the final in his last season with the club. His move to Bayern in the summer will make him the most expensive German player of all time, and he will surely go on to grace this competition for many years to come.

4. Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich)

Arguably the best midfielder in Europe this season, Bastian Schweinsteiger has played a deeper role this season than he is used to, but has flourished in this all-conquering Bayern team. His two goals and four assists don't tell the whole story, but he is undoubtedly the driving force in Jupp Heyncke's side, and could be the player that has a big say on the outcome of the final on Saturday.

3. Thomas Mueller (Bayern Munich)

With eight Champions League goals this season, Thomas Mueller is the top scoring midfielder of the tournament, and has a habit of being in the right place at the right time for Bayern Munich, scoring important goals home and away in the club's incredible semi-final thrashing of Barcelona and being voted Man of the Match three times, more than any other Bayern player. The 23-year-old scored in the final against Chelsea last year and will hope to help his team to victory this time.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)

Although Real Madrid will be disappointed by their semi-final exit to Borussia Dortmund, Cristiano Ronaldo has still shone in the Champions League, and is currently the competition's top scorer with 12 goals in 12 games. The Portuguese attacker is one of the best goal scorers in the world and has continued to show his ability to score out of nothing even in this struggling Real Madrid side this season.

1. Robert Lewandowski (Borussia Dortmund)

Arguably the player of the tournament, Robert Lewandowsi has been in great form for Dortmund since day one. His ten goals make him the second highest scorer behind Cristiano Ronaldo, and you wouldn't put it past him to overtake the Real Madrid man in the final. His excellent four-goal haul in the 4-1 win over Real Madrid in the semi-finals was one of the moments of the tournament, establishing the Polish striker as one of the most talented finishers in the world. Along with Mario Goetze, he now seems likely to be making the controversial move from Dortmund to final opponents Bayern Munich next season, though he will be hoping to condemn them to defeat in this year's final first.

Champions League Free Bets Offer : Pick up £50/€50 bet on Borussia Dortmund v Bayern Munich Final

OnlineBookmakers — Fri, 24 May 2013 11:19:37 +0000

Its the Champions League Final as Bayern Munich v Borussia Dortmund odds, as Bet365 release a free bets offer worth £50/€50 to spend betting on the game.

Its sure to be a bumper night of football with a huge turnover of betting taking place as popular UK favourite Bet365 announce a new free bets offer to all CaughtOffside visitors!

How to Pick up your free £50/€50 in play bet with Bet365

Place a pre-match bet on the Borussia Dortmund v Bayern Munich game and Bet365 will give you a free In-Play bet to the same stake during the big match, up to £50/€50! – Click here to claim your free bet on the final!

The biggest match that European club football has to offer – the Champions League Final – takes place from Wembley Stadium on Saturday night and we should be in for a scintillating encounter between two giants of German football – Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund.

Few can argue that these two deserve their place in the final of Europe’s elite club competition this campaign as they simply been too good for the big teams from Italy, England and Spain.

Both Bayern and Dortmund went up against La Liga outfits in the semi-finals, with the former thrashing Barcelona 7-0 over two legs and the latter beating Real Madrid 4-3.

Jupp Heynckes’ men have dominated the Bundesliga this season as they finished 25 points clear of Jurgen Klopp’s side, but in many ways, form goes out of the window in matches like this and it is all about with squad can deal with the pressure and perform on the night.

Bayern are getting a reputation for choking in Champions League finals as they lost to Inter Milan in 2010 and then to Chelsea in 2012. With this being Heynckes’ last season at the club, he will be desperate to get his hands on the trophy and if the German Champions are at their best, they should take this one.

The club from the Allianz Arena have been on an incredible run in recent weeks and the only team they have failed to beat in their last 14 matches is Dortmund.

Heynckes has to decide on whether to play Mario Mandzukic of Mario Gomez in this one, but the key men for the favourites could be Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery – who are likely to be on either wing.

They have both impressed in the Champions League this campaign and Robben looks to be excellent value for a goal here at 12/5.

Many believe this is Bayern Munich’s year, but might they choke again?

As for Dortmund, they have surprised a few in reaching the final of the competition, especially as they were in the group that consisted of Real Madrid, Manchester City and Ajax.

They have lost just one in the tournament though as have been incredible to watch.

The Bundesliga runners-up don’t come into this one in the best of form as they haven’t won in four, but the squad have shown they are made for the big occasion and as mentioned, form can go out of the window here.

There is no doubt that Robert Lewandowski is the key man for Dortmund on Saturday evening and even though there is some speculation as to whether he will be at the club next season, the Pole is sure to put in a big performance here. He is at 19/10 to score at anytime.

Both sets of fans love making an electric atmosphere is Wembley is going to be a cauldron of noise from 7.45pm on Saturday evening.

There is a rivalry between these two teams and with how desperate Klopp and Heynckes are to lift the trophy, expect a superb encounter. Don’t miss it.

Top 50 Best Young Players In World Football

Mark Brus — Sun, 12 May 2013 21:59:28 +0000

A comprehensive list of the 50 best players under the age of 22 in world football at the moment.

Check in to UEFA Europa League Final 2013 - Benfica vs Chelsea

50. Gerard Deufoleu (Barcelona)

The latest exciting talent to be coming through Barcelona's La Masia production line, Gerard Deufoleu has been a prolific goal scorer at youth level, excelling in Barca's B team for the last three seasons, as well as for Spain at Under-16 through to Under-21 level, earning himself the accolade of UEFA Under-19 Golden Player in 2012. Still only 19, he has made six appearances for the senior Barcelona team as they ease in another potential hero at the Nou Camp.

49. Will Hughes (Derby County)

The 18-year-old midfielder is really starting to make a name for himself in the Championship with Derby County, establishing himself as a key part of the first team in the 2012/13 season, making 35 appearances. Described as a skillful midfield playmaker, he has been eyed by by big clubs such as Barcelona, and compared with legendary midfielders Xavi and Andres Iniesta. Also watched by Arsenal, the England Under-21 international has a big future in the game and will surely not be at Derby for much longer.

48. Joel Campbell (Arsenal)

Many at Arsenal are excited at the prospect of Costa Rica youngster Joel Campbell returning to the club once he is finally granted a work permit to play in England. The 20-year-old has found himself out on loan, impressing both in Ligue 1 with Lorient and in La Liga with Real Betis. The forward has a powerful left foot, and has already made waves on the international scene, scoring 7 goals in 22 appearances for the senior Costa Rica international side.

47. Daniel Carvajal (Bayer Leverkusen)

The young right-back was initially a product of Real Madrid's youth system, before being snapped up by Bundesliga outfit Bayer Leverkusen at the start of the season. At £4million he looks a real bargain after proving a revelation for the German side in his first year there. Strong in the tackle, and getting forward to good effect with 1 goal and 7 assists, he is undoubtedly one to look out for in the next few years. Real Madrid know it too, and have made sure to put a buy-back clause in the 21-year-old's contract in case they decide to bring him back to the Bernebeu.

46. Tom Ince (Blackpool)

Another exciting young talent developing in the second tier of English football, the former Liverpool youngster may yet earn himself a return to Anfield on the back of a great season in the Championship with Blackpool. The 21-year-old has 18 goals this season from the wings, and gets fans of their seats with his pace and trickery. Tottenham are also looking at the winger, who is the son of Blackpool manager and former England captain Paul Ince.

45. Adem Ljajic (Fiorentina)

The young Serbian has earned rave reviews in Serie A this season, with 8 goals and 8 assists. The 21-year-old attacker can play in a variety of forward positions, usually either wide on the left or behind the striker. He is an all-round technical talent with an eye for a pass and long range shot. However, he is not without controversy, as he found himself in trouble with the Serbia national team after choosing not to sing along to the country's national anthem.

44. Mattia De Sciglio (AC Milan)

The 20-year-old AC Milan defender has enjoyed his breakthrough season this year, and is already a full international for the Italian national team. The right-back has been described by his coaches as "a fast runner, with good technique" and "a versatile footballer", and looks set to be a mainstay in the Milan back line for many years to come.

43. Jack Butland (Stoke City)

The young England goalkeeper really caught the eye at last summer's Olympic Games for Team GB, and was snapped up by Premier League side Stoke City in the January transfer window. Immediately loaned back to Birmingham City, Butland will be looking to make a name for himself in the top flight next season, and could already challenge Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart for the number one spot in the England team.

42. Oliver Torres (Atletico Madrid)

The latest in the line of talented midfield playmakers coming through in Spain, the 18-year-old Atletico Madrid youngster is already being eyed up by Manchester City and talked up as the next big thing - and he's not even a regular in the Atletico team yet. Definitely one to look out for in the next few years.

41. Lucas Digne (Lille)

The 19-year-old left-back has been a Lille regular for the last two seasons now, and could leave the club this summer for around £8million after catching the attention of Liverpool. The Frenchman is strong in the air and has shown great maturity in defence considering his age.

40. Jonjo Shelvey (Liverpool)

The 21-year-old midfielder may divide critics at Anfield, but it's easy to forget how far he's come for a player his age. With good technique and an eye for goal, the former Charlton man looks like a real prospect for the Reds over the next few years. He has five goals for Brendan Rodgers' side this season despite limited appearances, and is already a full England international. He could arguably benefit from having a stronger team around him, and should develop further if Liverpool can become a Premier League force again.

39. Luke Shaw (Southampton)

The Southampton youngster has had a brilliant breakthrough season for the Saints, becoming their first choice left-back in the Premier League at only 17 years of age, and showing a great deal of potential. Coming from a youth system that produced the likes of Theo Walcott and Gareth Bale, Shaw looks to have all the ingredients to become another Premier League star, and has attracted a lot of interest already from big clubs such as Chelsea and Arsenal. It would certainly be exciting to see the skillful full-back at a bigger club soon.

38. Serge Gnabry (Arsenal)

Little has been seen yet of the 17-year-old German winger, but he has caused a lot of excitement at youth level for the club since signing from Stuttgart in 2011. In limited first team appearances he looks like a confident player who likes to run at defenders and take shots, and he has shown this form in a stand-out campaign in both the Next Gen series and FA Youth Cup. With Arsenal's fondness for nurturing young talent, he looks to be in the right place for his development and should appear more for the Gunners in the next few years.

37. Marquinhos (Roma)

One of the best defenders in Serie A this season, despite being in only his first season at Roma since joining from Brazilian side Corinthians. The 18-year-old looks a solid, tall and strong centre-back and has kept his experienced team-mate Nicolas Burdisso on the bench at the Stadio Olimpico for almost the whole season.

36. Nathaniel Chalobah (Chelsea)

Another young talent for England to be excited about, the 18-year-old Chelsea man has caught the eye this season on loan at Championship side Watford, aiding their push for promotion to the Premier League. They hope to keep him permanently, but may face competition from big names such as Arsenal for his signature. Chelsea are also keen to tie him down to a new deal after many clubs have shown an interest in him. A strong and physical player, he can play in both defence and a defensive midfield role and is a regular for the England Under-21 side.

35. Florian Thauvin (Lille)

The Lille youngster has put himself on the radar of Premier League clubs Chelsea, Arsenal and Newcastle with his displays on loan at Bastia this season. The 20-year-old has scored 10 goals from midfield in Ligue 1 this year and Lille will struggle to hold on to the France Under-20 international.

34. Son Heung-Min (Hamburg)

The 20-year-old forward has alerted Arsenal and Tottenham with his performances for Hamburg this season. The versatile attacker can play in a number of positions upfront, and is a hard-worker tracking back as well, earning him a reputation as one of the best young players in the Bundesliga - certainly no mean feat. He already has 13 caps for the South Korea national team.

33. Hector Bellerin (Arsenal)

This product of the Barcelona youth system was snapped up by Arsenal two years ago, and could follow in the steps of Cesc Fabregas in making a name for himself in the Premier League. The Spanish winger is another stand-out performer in the club's youth team with his pace and skill, and will surely feature in Arsene Wenger's Capital One Cup squads soon enough.

32. Raheem Sterling (Liverpool)

Raheem Sterling has been thrust into the first team by Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers, and has shown enough quality to be a star player for the Reds when he matures. Still raw and in need of experience, the 18-year-old possesses great natural ability and has already been called up to the senior England team.

31. David Alaba (Bayern Munich)

The 20-year-old left-back has not looked at all out of place in Bayern Munich's star-studded all-conquering team this season, looking solid defensively and useful going forward. The youngster has had a great start to his career, and has already been a full Austrian international for the last four years.

30. Erik Lamela (Roma)

It's taken the young Argentine a bit of time to settle at Roma, but the 21-year-old has been one of the team's best performers in Serie A this season, scoring 15 goals from an attacking midfield position. Manchester City and Chelsea are suitably impressed, and have been linked with a summer move for the former River Plate youngster.

29. Phil Jones (Manchester United)

Phil Jones' talent was already clear when he broke into the Blackburn Rovers team as a teenager, and it's becoming ever more clear why Sir Alex Ferguson paid a massive £16.5million for him when he was just 19. The versatile defender has not quite found his best position yet, but is tipped to become a Manchester United great.

28. Koke (Atletico Madrid)

Another midfield playmaker coming through at Atletico Madrid, the 21-year-old has been one of the best young players in La Liga this season, providing an impressive 3 goals and 8 assists for Diego Simeone's side. His displays have already caught the attention of Arsenal and Chelsea.

27. Xherdan Shaqiri (Bayern Munich)

After making a name for himself at Swiss side FC Basel, the 21-year-old earned himself a big move to Bayern Munich. Although not always a regular in the team this season, he has shown glimpses of his great talent, and should establish himself as a world star in the next few years, even though there is great competition ahead of him at the Allianz Arena.

26. M'Baye Niang (AC Milan)

The 18-year-old forward is regarded as one of the best French talents at the moment, though he has struggled at times since his big move to AC Milan. Definitely one to watch though, as he has been compared with eccentric talent Mario Balotelli.

25. Adam Maher (AZ Alkmaar)

This exciting young Dutchman is reportedly being lined up by Manchester City next season after his impressive displays for AZ Alkmaar. Still only 19, he has four caps for the full Netherlands national team and has been a first team regular for the club since he was just 17.

24. Yaya Sanogo (Auxerre)

Although only playing in the second tier in France with Auxerre, Yaya Sanogo is wanted by Premier League duo Arsenal and Tottenham, showing himself to be an effective target man, putting his height and aerial ability to good use for the French side.

23. Paul Pogba (Juventus)

Inexplicably let go by Manchester United, Paul Pogba has proven a great signing for Serie A champions Juventus. The 20-year-old looks like the next Yaya Toure, breaking forward from midfield with skill and strength, and showing a great eye for the odd long range strike. Definitely one that United will live to regret letting leave.

22. Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea)

An exceptionally gifted young goalkeeper, the 20-year-old Belgian may compete with Chelsea stalwart Petr Cech at Stamford Bridge next season, after two impressive seasons on loan in La Liga with Atletico Madrid, who would ideally like to keep him permanently.

21. Pedro Mba Obiang (Sampdoria)

This young Spaniard came through the ranks at Atletico Madrid and is now making a name for himself in Serie A with Sampdoria. 1 goal and 5 assists from the middle of the park this season have shown him to be a good all-rounder as he looks to become a regular with the Spain Under-21 side.

20. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Arsenal)

The 19-year-old winger arrived with a big reputation from Southampton, and looked the part in his first season with Arsenal. Appearances have been harder to come by for him this year, but he remains a regular in the senior England side and his talent when running with the ball is obvious. A loan spell could do the youngster some good, but he's bound to be a Premier League star in good time.

19. Coutinho (Liverpool)

The talented Brazilian first caught the eye as a teenager at Inter Milan, and looks a good signing by Liverpool after arriving in January. The 20-year-old has 2 goals and 7 assists in his first 12 appearances, showing that there'll be plenty more to come from him next season.

18. Raphael Varane (Real Madrid)

One of the best young defenders in the world, Raphael Varane has shone in his breakthrough season at Real Madrid. The tall and commanding 20-year-old plays with a maturity beyond his years, and has given the fans at the Bernebeu plenty to be excited about with some great displays against Barcelona, showing himself able to stand up against the best attackers in the world.

17. Marco Verratti (PSG)

Dubbed the 'next Andrea Pirlo', Marco Verratti earned himself a big money move from Serie B side Pescara to PSG this season, and doesn't look out of place among the star names of the big-spending French side.

16. Romelu Lukaku (Chelsea)

Signed for big money from Anderlecht when he was just 18, Romelu Lukaku has not been given enough of a chance to shine at Chelsea. Compared to Blues legend Didier Drogba, the young Belgian has shown his talent on loan at West Brom this season, scoring 14 goals and looking a real handful for Premier League defenders. The strong and pacey striker has surely shown enough to get into the first team at Stamford Bridge next year?

15. Wilfried Zaha (Manchester United)

Manchester United were determined to beat Arsenal to the signing of 20-year-old Wilfried Zaha after his impressive displays in the Championship with Crystal Palace. The forward will join up with the Red Devils next season, and is currently being loaned back to Palace in a bid to help their push for promotion. Could be the latest young talent to make a name for himself at Old Trafford.

14. Cristian Tello (Barcelona)

Liverpool, Tottenham and Arsenal are all keen on signing this talented Barca youngster, who would be a regular if not for some fierce competition ahead of him at the Nou Camp. The 21-year-old has a big future in the game, showing great dribbling and finishing skills from wide positions.

13. James Rodriguez (Porto)

This Colombian talent has been compared with Real Madrid star Cristiano Ronaldo for his ability as a goalscoring winger. Currently at Porto, he has been watched by Manchester United and other top clubs, and looks destined to be a world class performer in the next few years.

12. Kevin De Bruyne (Chelsea)

The young Belgian is unlucky not to be valued by Chelsea, after a great season on loan at Werder Bremen. Despite his 8 goals and 9 assists, the 21-year-old attacking midfielder will probably be sold by the Blues this summer, with Borussia Dortmund keen on signing him to replace Mario Goetze - which shows how highly they rate him.

11. Iker Muniain (Athletic Bilbao)

Dubbed 'the Spanish Messi', Iker Muniain is not short of admirers for his silky displays for La Liga side Athletic Bilbao. The 20-year-old has already been called up for the Spanish national team and been watched by Arsenal and Manchester City. At 5 foot 7, he is a tricky customer, usually playing on the wing for Bilbao.

10. Matija Nastastic (Manchester City)

The Serbian defender has had a brilliant first season at the Etihad Stadium after signing from Fiorentina. At only 20 years of age he has been one of the team's most consistent performers, keeping the experienced Joleon Lescott out of the team all year. Well worth the £14million City paid for him last summer.

9. Lucas Moura (PSG)

The fact that PSG held off competition from Manchester United to sign Lucas Moura for £38million when he was just 19 says all you need to know about this Brazilian talent. The attacking midfielder is one of the best youngsters in the game and is sure to pay back his big transfer fee for the French side once he settles.

8. Oscar (Chelsea)

Chelsea pulled off the signing of a great young player when they brought in Oscar for nearly £20million this summer. Compared with former AC Milan star Kaka, the 21-year-old settled quickly at Stamford Bridge, scoring some stunning goals against Juventus in the Champions League, and linking up with Juan Mata and Eden Hazard in a skillful attacking trio for the Blues.

7. Christian Eriksen (Ajax)

The Danish youngster has been rumoured to be leaving Ajax for the last few years, after quickly showing himself to be a world class young talent. He is still with the Amsterdam club, but almost every big club in Europe will be tracking him again this summer after another great season in which he has contributed 13 goals and 23 assists from midfield.

6. Jack Wilshere (Arsenal)

Tipped by many to be a future England captain, Jack Wilshere plays with both skill and maturity which is very rare for his age. The 21-year-old has been unlucky with injuries so far in his career, but has had a good comeback season for the Gunners this year. Probably the best talent to come through Arsenal's youth system since Ashley Cole.

5. Julian Draxler (Schalke)

Schalke will be delighted to have recently secured Julian Draxler to a long-term contract, with the 19-year-old showing himself to be another excellent youngster coming through in Germany at the moment. The attacking midfielder has already worked his way into the German national side and will surely get a move to a bigger club in the near future.

4. Stephan El Shaarawy (AC Milan)

Undoubtedly one of the best young talents in world football, the 20-year-old Milan winger is the joint-third highest goal scorer in Serie A this season, showing tremendous ability with a range of great strikes for the club. Manchester City are understood to have made him a target this summer, and they will have to pay big money for a player who looks like being on Messi and Ronaldo's level in a few years' time.

3. Mario Goetze (Borussia Dortmund)

Bayern Munich have landed themselves one of the signings of the summer after securing the transfer of Mario Goetze from rivals Borussia Dortmund. The skillful playmaker has been a crucial part of Dortmund's success in the last few years and is still only 20. He will be one to fear as he grows and develops in this current Bayern side.

2. Isco (Malaga)

Manchester City are hoping to sign La Liga's best young talent this summer, after 21-year-old Isco enjoyed yet another great year with Malaga. The midfielder has all the components to be a great player, with an eye for a pass and a good goal-scoring touch. Chelsea and PSG are also interested in the exciting Spaniard.

1. Neymar (Santos)

Considered for many years now as the best young player in the world, Neymar looks like finally moving to showcase his skills in Europe with a move to Barcelona rumoured to be wrapped up. The Catalans have spent big money on the Brazilian, who will form a mouth-watering partnership with Lionel Messi at the Nou Camp next season. The 21-year-old has the world at his feet, and looks to have picked the right club for expressing himself and his immense skill.

Maroune Fellaini Drops Everton Exit Hint With Champions League Wish

Mark Brus — Sat, 11 May 2013 20:33:55 +0000

Everton midfielder wants to play in the Champions League.

Check in to Everton vs West Ham United

Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini has dropped a big hint that he could leave the club this summer, with the admission that he wants to play Champions League football.

The Belgian has been a star performer for the Toffees this season, but it hasn't been enough to guide the team into the top four of the Premier League. It has, however, led to interest from a number of bigger teams in signing him in the summer.

The 25-year-old has previously been linked with Arsenal, but could now be a target for Manchester United after it was announced that Everton boss David Moyes would be taking over as manager at Old Trafford from the retiring Sir Alex Ferguson next season.

Moyes has been linked with a raid on his current club, with Fellaini and left-back Leighton Baines standing out as key players who could add something to the United team.

According to the Metro, Fellaini wants to reach the Champions League with Everton, but despite his intentions to stay loyal to the team, a move somewhere else could be tempting for him.

"Every player wants to play in the Champions League. That is the big competition," he said.

"I hope I can do it with Everton. I'm happy here. I've been at the club for five years. I'm happy because I know everybody."

Fellaini has 12 goals in all competitions this season, and is rumoured to have a minimum release fee clause of around £25million.

Out of Time: A Tribute to Retiring Man United Boss Sir Alex Ferguson

Mark Brus — Thu, 09 May 2013 17:35:39 +0000

A look back at the career of one of the game's greatest managers.

Check in to Manchester United vs Swansea City

Manchester United's Sir Alex Ferguson, one of the most successful football managers in history, yesterday made the shock announcement to retire from the game at the end of the season.

The Scot will fittingly finish on a high after seeing off yet another competitor - noisy neighbours Manchester City - to help United to their 20th league title, the 13th brought to Old Trafford by Ferguson himself.

Few could have predicted such immense success when the Scot took over relegation-threatened United in 1986, but as one of his former players Gary Neville said, Ferguson changed the club from being a 'laughing stock' to being the biggest club in the world.

This success did not happen overnight though, as the former Aberdeen boss struggled to make an impact in his first three years at Old Trafford, even being threatened by the sack with growing supporter unrest towards the end of the 1989/90 season, when United finished just above the relegation zone. However, a win over Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final is said to have saved Ferguson's job, and it was the start of something special for Manchester United.

Two seasons later and United were champions for the first time in 26 years, with the signing of Eric Cantona from rivals Leeds proving instrumental to their success. The eccentric French forward is still regarded as a Manchester United legend, and one of Ferguson's most inspired signings, not just for the immediate success he brought the team on the pitch, but for putting United on the map and inspiring the generation of young players that would follow in his foot steps and form the foundation for United's glory under Ferguson.

Two doubles followed for United, but things looked to be taking a turn for the worse when Ferguson lost a core group of aging players and opted to replace them with players coming through the club's academy instead of spending money on established star names. After a 3-1 defeat to Aston Villa on the opening day of the 1995/96 season, Match of the Day pundit Alan Hansen famously uttered the words "You can't win anything with kids", memorable to this day as the likes of Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes, David Beckham and the Neville brothers went on to deliver the title that year - and many more in years to come, becoming some of the biggest names in world football under the guidance of Ferguson.

One of the fiercest rivalries in Premier League football soon developed as Arsene Wenger brought Arsenal into the title mix, winning the league in his first full season in charge of the club and arguably winning at Ferguson's famous mind games. However, history has shown that new challenges have only ever brought the best out of Ferguson, who bettered Arsenal's double in of 1998 with a famous treble for Manchester United the following year.

Delivering the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League in 1999 is still seen as Ferguson's biggest achievement at the club. This unprecedented treble was brought about with a still young United side, who showed their battling qualities throughout the season, edging Arsenal to the title by just one point, as well as a hard-fought 2-1 win over the Gunners in the crucial FA Cup semi-final. But most of all, their never-say-die attitude was perfectly displayed by their two stoppage time goals to win the Champions League final against Bayern Munich from 1-0 down. Another inspired Ferguson signing, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, got the winner that night as United achieved the seemingly impossible.

Though United won the next two titles, Arsenal would not go away, and brought a low point in Ferguson's career as they celebrated their title victory at Old Trafford with a 1-0 win in 2002. Ferguson had been set to retire at the end of that season, but Wenger's now infamous talk of "a power shift from Manchester to North London" was perhaps the motivation that kept the United boss going. He had helped the Red Devils replace Liverpool as the dominant force in English football, and he was not prepared to let Arsenal come along and bring an end to their dominance.

United won the title back the following season, though a high-profile falling out with star player David Beckham dominated the headlines for months after Ferguson was said to have kicked a boot at the England captain. Beckham left the club for Real Madrid in the summer of 2003, and it was the start of another difficult few years for Ferguson and United, prompting some sections of the club's fans to say he should have retired when he'd planned to.

They went three years without a league win - a crisis by their high standards - as Arsenal won in 2004, and big-spending Chelsea emerged as a force in 2005 and 2006. Another fierce rivalry was formed, this time with Chelsea's Jose Mourinho, but once again Ferguson showed his staying power and built another new-look team to claim back the title in 2007. Young players such as Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo brought about some of the most attractive attacking football the club had seen under Ferguson, and they were victorious in Europe again with a Champions League final win over rivals Chelsea in 2008.

Ferguson's status as a Manchester United legend had long been confirmed, but he now undoubtedly stands as an all-time great of the game, bringing a further three titles in the last four years, now most satisfyingly of all asserting themselves as the number one club in Manchester after rivals City won the title last season.

Perhaps most impressive of all has been Ferguson's ability to adapt to the changes in the game. As Gary Neville has said, the United boss still brings an element of old school toughness to the job that he had in the 80s, but has also tweaked his tactics and man management methods to suit different players in this different era. There is no doubt that the 71-year-old could keep going for a few more years and still be the best, but he has nothing else to prove in the game that he has made his own.

His are very big shoes for David Moyes to fill, but United would be well advised to remember the faith they showed to their legendary manager in a difficult first few years at the club. Although we may never see another manager like Ferguson, United showed that if you give someone the right support they could achieve something beyond everyone's wildest dreams.

Transfer Rumour Gossip: Bayern Munich Want Man United Striker, La Liga Side Chase Luis Suarez, Brazilian Keeper Set for Summer Exit

Mark Brus — Wed, 08 May 2013 10:08:50 +0000

A round-up of Wednesday's hottest transfer gossip.

Check in to Chelsea vs Tottenham Hotspur

Wayne Rooney wants to leave Manchester United for Bayern Munich, and could move for £30million this summer.

Full story: Daily Mirror.

Swansea City are understood to have set an asking price of £10million for Arsenal and Liverpool target Ashley Williams.

Full story: The Metro.

Atletlico Madrid could make a surprise big-money bid for Liverpool striker Luis Suarez as they look to replace the departing Radamel Falcao.

Full story: Daily Mirror.

Queens Park Rangers manager Harry Redknapp expects Brazilian goalkeeper Julio Cesar will leave the club this summer following their relegation from the Premier League.

Full story: Sky Sports.

Barcelona have stepped up their interest in Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina, as they look for a replacement for Arsenal target Victor Valdes.

Full story: Daily Mail.

Former Arsenal midfielder Alex Song insists he is happy at Barcelona, despite his bit-part role since joining the club last summer.

Full story: London Evening Standard.

Juventus could beat Tottenham and other interested Premier League clubs to the signing of Gonzalo Higuain, who has been put up for sale by Real Madrid.

Full story: talkSPORT.

Manchester City flop Kolo Toure could finally leave the club this summer after attracting interest from Serie A giants AC Milan.

Full story: Daily Mail.

Controversial West Brom striker Peter Odemwingie could be allowed to leave the club this summer if a reasonable offer is made.

Full story: Birmingham Mail.

Queens Park Rangers are ready to lose some big names, but hope to persuade Christopher Samba to stay at the club in the Championship next season.

Full story: Daily Mirror.

Hull City could make Curtis Davies their first signing as they prepare for life in the Premier League nest season.

Full story: Daily Mail.

SPL giants Celtic are interested in highly-rated Burnley striker Charlie Austin.

Full story: Lancashire Telegraph.

Arsenal have struck a lucrative new kit deal with designers Puma, which will start from 2014/15.

Full story: Daily Mirror.

Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas has hit out at his old club Chelsea ahead of their meeting tonight, and at comments made by Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.

Full story: Daily Mirror.

The bizarre story of a German football fan who has reserved a seat for the Champions League final at Wembley by laying down a beach towel on it!

Full story: Daily Star.

Barcelona To Rival Manchester United For German Midfielder

Mark Brus — Tue, 07 May 2013 15:33:00 +0000

Barca to rival United for Dortmund ace.

Check in to Manchester United vs Swansea City

Barcelona could nip in ahead of Manchester United to sign Borussia Dortmund midfielder Ilkay Gundogan, according to talkSPORT.

The 22-year-old defensive midfielder is one of many young talents emerging in the Bundesliga at the moment, and has been targeted by Sir Alex Ferguson to bring a bit more steel to his midfield.

However, Barcelona are also keen to strengthen their squad this summer as they look to improve defensively and catch up with the likes of Bayern Munich on the European stage.

Dortmund face a struggle to keep many of their top names this summer, with Mario Goetze already agreeing to join rivals Bayern next season, and Robert Lewandowski possibly being the next to follow. Marco Reus has also attracted attention, and this talented team may be broken apart after this month's Champions League final.

Manchester United are chasing other midfielders as they look to replace Paul Scholes and Anderson, with the former possibly retiring at the end of the season and the latter likely to be sold. Juventus duo Arturo Vidal and Claudio Marchisio have been strongly linked as well as Gundogan.

Barcelona may sell Alex Song, who has failed to make an impression since joining from Arsenal, and see Gundogan as a decent alternative to Sergio Busquets in midfield.

Reading Midfielder To Turn Down Move To Galatasaray

Mark Brus — Tue, 07 May 2013 13:21:56 +0000

Reading midfielder will stay and fight for promotion back to the Premier League.

Check in to Reading vs Manchester City

Reading midfielder Jem Karacan has played down links to big-spending Turkish giants Galatasaray, insisting he is happy to remain with the relegated side.

According to talkSPORT, Karacan is focused on helping Reading climb back up to the Premier League from the Championship next season, rather than the chance to play in the Champions League with big names such as Didier Drogba and Wesley Sneijder.

The 24-year-old added that he is frustrated at the constant speculation surrounding his future.

"It happens every year and I keep getting bugged about it. I'm a Reading player," he said.

"I signed a deal last summer and everyone wants to play in the best league in the world and it's gutting to not have that next year.

"Reading is a Premier League club and we know we should be there and we will try our hardest to get back up. Anything can happen in the summer.

"I'm a Reading player and I will be as happy as ever if I'm still here."

Galatasaray are tipped to keep spending this summer after their big name signings of Drogba and Sneijder in January. The Turks have also been linked with Premier League trio Gervinho, Lukas Podolski and Dimitar Berbatov.

However, they could also be set to lose star striker Burak Yilmaz, who has caught the eye in the Champions League this season and is now wanted by the likes of Liverpool and Arsenal.

Meanwhile, Reading are also bracing themselves for bids for Alex McCarthy and Hal Robson-Kanu, following their relegation. They will be hoping for the same kind of commitment that Karacan is showing in their fight to bounce back up to the top flight next year.

Top 50 Best Players of 2012/13

Mark Brus — Sun, 05 May 2013 22:21:33 +0000

The 50 best players from across Europe in 2012/13.

Check in to Chelsea vs Tottenham Hotspur

50. Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich)

Often thought of as a slightly wasted talent, the French winger has made a great contribution to Bayern Munich's all-conquering team this season. With 8 goals and 10 assists, his skill and trickery when running with the ball have made him an important weapon in the Bayern attack as they won the Bundesliga title in record time and thrashed Barcelona en route to the Champions League final.

49. Diego (Wolsburg)

The Brazilian midfielder is statistically one of the best playmakers in Europe this season, and has 9 goals in the Bundesliga to boot. Despite Diego's great form, his club Wolsburg have struggled in the league, which could mean the 28-year-old former Juventus man makes a return to a top club in the near future.

48. Arturo Vidal (Juventus)

The Chilean midfielder has impressed again for the Italian giants as they look like retaining their Serie A title. With 9 goals, 7 assists and a pass accuracy of 87.4%, Vidal is an all-round box-to-box midfielder and an important cog in the Juventus machine. His form has not gone unnoticed and Manchester United are looking into signing the player.

47. Stefan Kießling (Bayer Leverkusen)

One of many talented players coming from Germany at the moment, Kießling has shone this season and finds himself among Europe's top scorers, with 23 goals. More than just a target man, the 6"3 striker has been essential to Bayer Leverkusen's impressive season in the Bundesliga.

46. Andrea Pirlo (Juventus)

One of the finest playmakers in the game, Andrea Pirlo continues to sparkle despite his age. After a title win with Juventus last season and an eye-catching performance at Euro 2012 with Italy, the former AC Milan man has had another fine season and looks to be a champion once again in Serie A.

45. Michu (Swansea City)

The little-known Spaniard was signed by Swansea City from Rayo Vallecano for just £2million and has been a revelation in his first season in the Premier League. 17 goals in the league have helped the Swans to the top half of the table and a few more in the Capital One Cup have earned his side some surprise silverware. Will surely be a target for bigger clubs now after this breakthrough campaign.

44. Rafael Da Silva (Manchester United)

Brazilian right-back Rafael has come into his own for Manchester United this season, forming an important part of Sir Alex Ferguson's title-winning team. As well as being solid defensively, the 22-year-old has an eye for an assist and the occasional spectacular goal, with tremendous and important strikes against Liverpool and QPR.

43. Leighton Baines (Everton)

The Everton man has shown himself to be a real talent with his performances this season. With his excellent left foot, Baines has at many points during the season been Europe's most accurate crosser and creator of most scoring chances for his team-mates. A regular England spot and transfer to a bigger club surely beckons if his form continues like this.

42. Mario Goetze (Borussia Dortmund)

The talented German playmaker may not be so popular with his own fans now after confirming he will be leaving Borussia Dortmund for rivals Bayern Munich at the end of the season, but there's no doubting his ability and contribution to their achievements this season, with an incredible run to the Champions League final at Wembley.

41. Marek Hamsik (Napoli)

The Napoli star often goes unnoticed due to the presence of Edinson Cavani at the club, but Hamsik is a crucial part of the team and one of the best midfielders in Europe at the moment. Joint top with Barcelona's Andres Iniesta on assists (14) this season, the Slovakian playmaker continues to develop into a fine player.

40. Santi Cazorla (Arsenal)

Santi Cazorla has had an excellent debut season in English football with Arsenal since joining from Malaga. The Spaniard has reached double figures in both goals and assists and many other top clubs may be scratching their heads as to how they missed out on the 28-year-old.

39. Andre Schurrle (Bayer Leverkusen)

The exciting winger has impressed for Bayer Leverkusen this season and attracted the interests of Chelsea. Still only 22, he has an exciting future and could move for big money sooner rather than later.

38. Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund)

After signing from Borussia Mönchengladbach, Marco Reus has done brilliantly to replace the departing Shinji Kagawa at Borussia Dortmund. The exciting forward is one of many young talents coming through in Germany at the moment and may not be at Dortmund for long if the likes of Manchester City have their way.

37. Yaya Toure (Manchester City)

Manchester City may not have had their best season in attempting to retain the Premier League title, but Yaya Toure remains a Premier League star, driving forward from midfield with both power and skill. With an eye for an important goal as well, the Ivorian is certainly a player who any club would want in their team.

36. Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich)

It's hard to believe Thomas Muller is still only 23, as his maturity and professionalism is a vital part of Bayern Munich's immense success this season. After scoring in the Champions League semi-final thrashing of Barcelona, Muller will be hoping for a richly-deserved winner's medal.

35. Eden Hazard (Chelsea)

After arriving with much hype to Chelsea from Lille this summer, the young Belgian hasn't disappointed. 9 goals and 9 assists in the Premier League earned him a nomination for PFA Player of the Year.

34. Christian Benteke (Aston Villa)

Like Michu, Christian Benteke arrived pretty much unnoticed from Genk in the summer, but has gone on to be a hit with Aston Villa. His goals and assists should be enough to keep his side in the Premier League almost single-handedly. Paul Lambert will now be fighting off the bids for his star player in the summer.

33. Stephan El Shaarawy (AC Milan)

Still only 20, El Shaarawy is one of the most exciting young talents in the world and currently the third highest scorer in Serie A with 18 goals for AC Milan, many of them of exceptional quality.

32. Thiago Silva (PSG)

The former Milan defender moved for big money to PSG, but hasn't disappointed, establishing himself as one of the most solid and reliable centre-backs in the world.

31. Francesco Totti (Roma)

Like Pirlo, a classy Italian who just seems to get better with age. The 36-year-old has been in fantastic form for Roma this season, becoming Serie A's second highest goalscorer of all time with 226 career goals.

30. Jan Vertonghen (Tottenham)

The classy defender has really shone in his first season in England since arriving at Tottenham from Ajax. Showing that total football is alive and well in Amsterdam, the Belgian combines great defensive awareness with skill and composure in attack too, contributing six goals from the back.

29. Marouane Fellaini (Everton)

Another Premier League star from Belgium, Fellaini has really impressed for Everton this year with 12 goals from midfield, helping David Moyes' side to a fight for a Champions League place.

28. Raphael Varane (Real Madrid)

One of the most talented young defenders in the game made his breakthrough for Spanish giants Real Madrid this season. Raphael Varane looks a star in the making after some imposing displays against rivals Barcelona.

27. Etienne Capoue (Toulouse)

The Toulouse midfielder is on the radar of many top clubs after a great season in Ligue 1. A tough defensive midfielder, he looks to have a bright future in the game.

26. Riccardo Montolivo (AC Milan)

The former Fiorentina man has not disappointed since his big move to Milan, showing himself to be another Andrea Pirlo in the making.

25. Theo Walcott (Arsenal)

His best season yet for Arsenal, Theo Walcott has weighed in with 20 goals and 14 assists in all competitions, helping ease the pain of Robin van Persie's departure.

24. Mario Mandzukic (Bayern Munich)

After an impressive Euro 2012, the Croatian striker has maintained his fine form at the head of Bayern Munich's impressive attack, with 19 goals.

23. Cesc Fabregas (Barcelona)

Despite a slightly disappointing year at Barcelona, Cesc Fabregas has 13 goals and 11 assists in all competitions for the Catalans, who for a while were running away with La Liga before a late-season slump. The former Arsenal man should still win the first league title of his career.

22. Angelo Ogbonna (Torino)

The young Italian defender has been immense for Serie A side Torino this year, catching the eye of several top clubs such as AC Milan, Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool.

21. Mesut Ozil (Real Madrid)

The Real Madrid playmaker is one of the most polished attacking midfielders in the game, and despite a slightly disappointing year at Real, the German has continued to shine with his individual displays.

20. Andres Iniesta (Barcelona)

Leading Europe's assist charts with 14, Iniesta remains one of the best playmakers in the game. Despite some poor recent form from the whole Barcelona team, the Spaniard was helping his team-mates thrash all before them earlier in the season.

19. Thibault Courtois (Atletico Madrid)

Chelsea will have a selection headache next season when Thibault Courtois returns from his loan spell at Atletico Madrid. The Belgian shot-stopper looks an excellent prospect and could even force Petr Cech out of the team.

18. Michael Carrick (Manchester United)

A surprise for some as a nominee for PFA Player of the Year, but Michael Carrick has had one of his best seasons and played an important part in Manchester United's title triumph.

17. Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)

Liverpool may not be what they used to be, but inspirational captain Steven Gerrard shows no signs of slowing down. With 9 goals and 9 assists this term, the 32-year-old is still one of the best midfielders in the Premier League.

16. Hernanes (Lazio)

The Brazilian midfielder has lit up Serie A this season with some fantastic displays and stunning long range strikes. A star in the making, Hernanes has emerged as a target for Manchester City.

15. David De Gea (Manchester United)

After an uncertain first season with Manchester United, David De Gea is finally living up to his potential, and has shown himself to be a top goalkeeper with his displays this season.

14. Burak Yilmaz (Galatasaray)

A target for Arsenal and Manchester United, exciting Turkish striker Burak Yilmaz has been in excellent goalscoring form for Galatasaray this season, with 28 goals.

13. Julian Draxler (Schalke)

This exciting 19-year-old is surely set for a big move this summer after some great performances for Schalke this season. The youngster has struck 12 times for the Bundesliga side.

12. Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG)

The third-highest scorer in Europe, Zlatan Ibrahimovic has shone at yet another club after joining PSG from AC Milan. His displays should earn himself yet another league title in yet another country in his illustrious career.

11. Stevan Jovetic (Fiorentina)

The Montenegro forward has caught the eye for Fiorentina this season, being among the top scorers in Serie A and helping his side challenge for a Champions League place. Wanted by both Arsenal and Manchester City.

10. Luis Suarez (Liverpool)

Until his controversial biting incident and subsequent ten-match ban, Luis Suarez was being talked about as one of the best players in the Premier League. His talent is obvious and he'll be a player to fear if he sorts out his attitude.

9. Juan Mata (Chelsea)

An exceptionally skillful player, Juan Mata has really staked his claim for a place in Spain's star-studded national side with his performances for Chelsea this season.

8. Robert Lewandowski (Borussia Dortmund)

The Polish striker is the top scorer in the Bundesliga this season after another great year with Borussia Dortmund. His recent individual excellence was highlighted with four goals in the Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid.

7. Isco (Malaga)

One of the most sought-after young talents in the world, 21-year-old Isco has earned rave reviews at Malaga this season, and is surely set for a big money move, with PSG, Manchester City and Chelsea all fighting for his signature.

6. Edinson Cavani (Napoli)

One of several who could quite rightly claim to be the best striker in the world, Edinson Cavani continues to get better and Napoli won't be able to keep hold of the Uruguayan goal machine for much longer.

5. Gareth Bale (Tottenham)

Voted both PFA and Writers' Player of the Year in the Premier League this season, the Welsh wing wizard could become one of the most expensive players of all time this summer, with Real Madrid willing to pay £65million for the Spurs star.

4. Robin van Persie (Manchester United)

After an excellent season with Arsenal, Robin van Persie made a shock move to Manchester United and has not disappointed. The lethal Dutchman has been excellent and helped fire his new team to the title.

3. Radamel Falcao (Atletico Madrid)

Falcao has continued to get better and better and is regarded by some as the most deadly finisher in world football. Atletico Madrid will struggle to keep the likes of Manchester United, Chelsea and Real Madrid from signing their star player.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)

Although Real Madrid have not had their best year, Ronaldo's world class ability is still there for all to see, with an amazing 53 goals in 52 games this season.

1. Lionel Messi (Barcelona)

Although this list is in no particular order for the most part, Lionel Messi is a deserved first place. Injuries have disrupted his season, but the Argentinian remains the best in the world and maybe the best of all time, with an incredible record of 58 goals in 48 games this season. Also joint second on assists this season with 12. An all-round amazing talent.