One surprising Premier League star makes the cut
Probably the most shocking thing about Lionel Messi’s proposed transfer from Barcelona, rather than the actual idea of him leaving Catalonia, was the sheer cost of the deal needed to prise him away.
£500m the figure touted in some quarters; with an astronomical £200m of that just spent on his transfer fee alone.
This got CaughtOffside wondering, given the current, market values of players – never mind what clubs paid for them in the past – who would be in the most expensive XI of players in the world today?
Unsurprisingly, the usual duo were leading the attack but some surprising names from particularly Spain and Germany made the cut as well as a shock Manchester City star.
Find out who’s in below:
GK: Manuel Neuer – Bayern Munich (£35.2m)
German international and Bayern stopper is most likely the best in the world at what he does.
RB: Philipp Lahm – Bayern Munich (£26.4m)
The cool, calm metronome of the Bayern midfield. Will be sorely missed by Germany.
CB: Sergio Ramos – Real Madrid (£39.6m)
The fiery Spaniard at the core of Madrid’s robust defence that allowed them to go 22 matches unbeaten
CB: Eliaquim Mangala – Manchester City (£30.8m)
Very surprising name in the centre of defence given his so far torrid time at Manchester City
LB: David Alaba – Bayern Munich (£30.8m)
Good in nearly any position but has established himself as one of the world’s most brilliant full-backs.
CM: Paul Pogba – Juventus (44m)
Still raw at just 21 but already one of the most dynamic midfielders ever seen, so much that it’s actually scary to think of the brilliance he could bring if he fully develops.
CM: Luka Modric – Real Madrid (£48.4m)
Not one of the star names when he arrived at the Bernabeu but Real fans know what a crucial cog he is in the winning machine.
LW: Neymar – Barcelona (£61.6m)
The beating heart of Brazil during their World Cup run and is slowly finding his feet at Barcelona.
RW: Gareth Bale – Real Madrid (£70.4m)
A whirlwind first year for the Welshman after his big money move that culminated in a goal to secure the Spanish side’s tenth European cup.
CF: Cristiano Ronaldo – Real Madrid (£105.6m)
Now three time Balon d’Or winner who just dominated 2014 with his goals, trophies and accolades and is looking to do much the same in 2015.
CF: Lionel Messi – Barcelona (£105.6m)
Not his best year but the sheer chaos caused by the mere suggestion of him leaving Barcelona tells you all you need to know about whether he’s still got it.
(All transfer costs taken from transfermarkt.co.uk)