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Sergio Ramos – The 24 year old World Champions right back arrived at Madrid in the summer of 2005 for 27 million Euro, the only Spanish player purchased by Florentino Perez during his first stint at the club. From a shaky centre back Ramos had developed into one of the best full backs in the world, playing 211 times in all competitions for Real.

Mahamadou Diarra – The Malian defensive midfielder arrived at Real after winning four titles with Lyon in France back in 2006 for 26 million Euro, being a center piece in Real’s midfield during their two titles in 2007-2008 but hasn’t been playing much the last couple of seasons due to injuries and losing his place with the first team.

Pepe – The Portuguese international was born in Brazil and began his soccer youth career at Corinthians, but arrived in Spain from Porto, purchased for 30 million Euro in the summer of 2007. When healthy and not suspended, Pepe is one of the tougher defenders you can find. His temper and wild tackling style does get the best of him at times.

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Fernando Gago – Came as a huge promise from Boca Juniors for 20 million Euro at the age of 20 in 2006, but after winning a place in the first team during Schuster’s first season in 2007-2008, has slowly regressed in stature and ability, becoming a backup for Xabi Alonso and Lass.

Marcelo Vieira – Simply Marcelo, the Brazilian left something (they thought he was a left back to start with, but Marcelo has nothing to do with defending) arrived at Real from Fluminense for 6.5 million Euro during the 2007 winter transfer window and has become a permanent fixture with the first team in the last two seasons, although his form is incredibly erratic, even within the match itself.

Jerzy Dudek – The 2005 Liverpool Champions League Final hero arrived at Madrid for free, but hasn’t been doing much, playing only one league game in three season he has been with Real.

Royson Drenthe – Not one of the most popular players in Madrid, like Marcelo, Drenthe is something of a left winger although he never seems to be looking quite in place whenever he’s playing. Drenthe arrived for 13 million Euro from Feyenoord in 2007 but hasn’t scored a league goal for the club since his first season in 2007-2008, when he scored two league goals in 18 matches.

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Gonzalo Higuain – Another 13 million Euro signing, this time from River Plate. Higuain has been a phenomenal scorer the last couple of years, but the club has failed to win a league title or gain Champions League redemption since he has become a starter for the team, blamed many times for not showing up in big games.

Ezquiel Garay – Another Argentinian, purchased from Santander back in 2008 for 10 million Euro but played his first season for the club in 2009-2010, playing 20 matches and scoring one goal.

Rafael van der Vaart – The man with the most beautiful wife in the world will begin his third season with the club in 2010-2011 after arriving from Hamburg for 13 million Euro. Despite not being part of Pellegrini’s early plans last year, found himself starting quite often, especially after Kaka’s woes and injuries, scoring six goals in 26 matches.

Alvaro Arbeloa – Grew up in the clubs’ youth ranks and returned last year after playing for Deportivo and Liverpool, coming for a fee of 4.5 million Euro. Arbeloa, like his entire career, was a consistent starter or sub for Real playing on both flanks of the defense, and scored a now famous goal to win the Madrid derby against Atletico in Real’s 3-2 win.

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Kaka – Another player who will start his second season with the club although there are still rumors of a switch in the air, with Kaka’s disappointing first season and World Cup in the background. Kaka arrived from AC Milan for 65 million Euro, scoring 8 goals and adding six assists for the club in 22 matches (only) due to injury.

Cristiano Ronaldo – The most expensive soccer player in history arrived from Manchester United for 94 million Euro and scored 26 goals in 29 matches for Real in the La Liga. It wasn’t enough for a title.

Lassana Diarra – Lass was just above average while playing in the Premiership, but after arriving at Madrid for 20 million Euro in the winter of 2009 he has become and evolved into one of the better defensive midfielders in Spain, although it is evident he still isn’t Makelele, the last time Real had a real world class stopper in the middle.

Karim Benzema – So far, Benzema is one of the least successful Galacticos 2.0 project, arriving for 35 million Euro and scoring only 8 goals in 27 matches for the club in his first year, a season which cost him his place with the French national team as of now.

Raul Albiol – The quiet central defender arrived from Valencia for 15 million Euro and was a regular feature for Real, aided by Pepe’s injury, playing 33 league matches.

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Xabi Alonso – The Basque play maker had a very good World Cup and also had a good season for Real in 2009-2010 after arriving from Liverpool for 30 million Euro, although it is evident he needs a better and tougher partner than Lass to topple Barcelona and dominate in the Champions League.

Esteban Granero – Spent two years with Getafe before returning to Real last summer for 4 million Euro, starting mostly on the bench, managing 3 goals and 5 assists for the club in 31 matches.

Sergio Canales – The first of the four new arrivals at the club in the summer of 2010, Canales is a 19 year old attacking midfielder who had a very good season for Santander last year, scoring six goals, and has been fantastic for the Spain youth teams in the last three years, winning the UEFA U-17 title in 2008.

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Angel di Maria – The Argentinian left winger didn’t have a very successful World Cup but was brilliant for Benfica in their title winning 2009-2010 campaign. He arrived at Madrid for 25 million Euro.

Pedro Leon – The 23 year old Spaniard had two very productive seasons with Valladolid and Getafe the last two years and arrived after a transfer fee of 10 million Euro was payed to their Madrid neighbours.

Sami Khedira – The 23 year old German of Tunisian roots (Tunisian dad) was brilliant for Germany in the 2010 World Cup and very impressive for Stuttgart during the last three seasons, earning him a 15 million Euro transfer fee.

Total Cost – 481.5 million Euro, 54.5 million this summer so far

1904 – Andy McCombie – Another Scottish player, McCombie left Sunderland to bitter rivals Newcastle United for 700 pounds, 70,000 pounds today or just under 110,000 dollars. He won the league titles with both clubs and remained with the Newcastle coaching staff after retiring.

1905 – Alf Common – The first Englishman to be known as the worlds most expensive soccer player, becoming the first player to be worth a transfer fee of 1000 pounds – just under 100,000 today, about 150,000 dollars. Common also made a north-eastern move, leaving Sunderland for Middlesbrough, only six months after arriving at Sunderland from Sheffield United. Unlike McCombie, Common never won a league title.

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1922 – Syd Puddefoot – Another Englishman who also played cricket for Essex. The England international forward made a move to Scotland from West Ham for 5000 pounds, 218,000 pounds today, 340,000 dollars.

1922 – Warney Cresswell – A season later, and South Shield born full back moved from South Shields to Sunderland for 500 pounds more than Puddefoot’s fee. He played there for five years before moving to Everton, winning two league titles there alongside legendary Dixie Dean.

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1928 – David Jack  - Another England legend, Jack was the first player to ever score at Wembley during the 1923 FA Cup Final while playing for Bolton. He left Bolton to Arsenal for a fee of 10,000 pounds – 540,000 pounds today, or just over 840,000 dollars. Jack scored 124 times for Arsenal and was the first player to win an FA Cup with two different clubs.

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1932 – Bernabe Ferreyra – The first non-Brit to be the world’s most expensive player, the Argentinian forward was probably the first real superstar of Argentinian soccer. Ferreyra moved from Tigre to River Plate for 23,000 pounds – 1.2 million today, 1.8 million dollars. At River, Ferreyra scored 187 goals in 185 matches, one of only three players in the Professional era to average more than a goal a game.

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1952 – Hasse Jeppson – Hasse Goldenfoot broke 20 years of Ferreyra’s reign at the top of the transfer charts, moving from Atalanta to Napoli for 52,000 pounds, which was actually less calculating inflation than Ferreyra’s transfer – 1.15 million pounds, just under 1.8 million dollars. The transfer fee earned him the nickname – “The Bank of Naples”. Jeppson also played with the Swedish national team in the 1950 World Cup, scoring two goals.

1954 – Juan Alberto Schiaffino – The Uruguay striker won the World Cup in 1950, scoring in the final match against Brazil. After starring at club level for Penarol, Schiaffino made the switch to Italy and AC Milan, leaving for 72,000 pounds – 1.5 million pounds today/2.3 million dollars. Schiaffino won three league titles with Milan and even played four matches for the Italian national team.

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1957 – Omar Sivori – The Maradona of the 60’s gained his fame during his eight years playing for Italian giants Juventus, teaming up with John Charles and Giampiero Boniperti. Sivori arrived at Juve from River Plate for 93,000 pounds – 1.7 million today/2.6 million dollars. Sivori scored 134 goals for Juventus, winning three league titles and the European Footballer of the year award in 1961.

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1961 – Luis Suarez Miramontes – One of Spain’s all time greats, Miramontes played for both Barcelona and Inter during his career, later managing Inter Milan on numerous occasions and also the Spanish national team. Miramontes became the most expensive player in the world when he transferred from Barcelona to Inter for 152,000 pounds – 2.5 million today/3.9 million dollars. With Inter he won three league titles and two European Cups during the Grande Inter period. He also won the European Championship with Spain in 1964 and the European Footballer of the year in 1960.

1963 – Angelo Sormani – A Brazilian/Italian striker who broke the record after moving from Mantova to Roma for 250,000 pounds – Just under 4 million pounds/6.17 million dollars today.

1967 – Harald Nielsen – Known as the “Gold-Harald”, the Danish striker broke the record in 1967, after successful seasons with Bolonga, winning Italy’s top scorer twice, when he was sold to Inter for 300,000 pounds – 4.4 million pounds/6.86 million dollars today. He never really succeeded with Inter.

1968 – Pietro Anastasi – Staying in Italy, Anastasi broke the record when Juventus bought him from Varese for 500,000 pounds – 6.46 million pounds/10.1 million dollars today. Anastasi’s greatest moment came in the 1968 European Championship Final, scoring a goal for Italy in their win over Yugoslavia.

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1973 – Johan Cruyff – Probably the greatest player ever to miss out on winning the World Cup, Cruyff broke the record in 1973 after moving from Ajax to Barcelona for 920,000 pounds – 8.2 million pounds/12.8 million dollars today. A legend with both clubs and in the Netherlands, Cruyff was probably and still is the best example of the thinking soccer player. He won three European footballer of the year awards and three European Cups with Ajax. He won one league title with Barcelona as a player (1974) and four as their manager. His biggest achievement was the 1992 European Cup.

1975 – Giuseppe Savoldi – Savoldi was mostly known for his time with Bologna, where he was one of Italy’s top strikers. He broker the transfer fee record after Napoli purchased him for 1.2 million pounds – 7.3 million pounds/11.4 million dollars.

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1976 – Paolo Rossi – Italy’s 1982 World Cup hero was purchased by Vicenza for 1.75 million pounds after being co-owned by Juventus and Vicenza. The deal is worth today 9.3 million pounds/14.5 million dollars. Rossi was suspended from the sport for two years after a betting scandal which according to some sources was made up but still forced Rossi away from the sport. Still, Rossi came back in 1982 to win the World Cup with Italy and win titles with Juventus.

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1982 – Diego Maradona – The recently fired legend broke his own transfer record in 1984 – the only player to appear on this list twice. First, it was his transfer from Argentina to Barcelona in 1982 for 3 million pounds – 7.7 million pounds/12 million dollars today. His didn’t have the best of times at Barca, injured or arguing with the club’s president most of the time,as the brawl with Bilbao players his most memorable moment. Two years later Maradona was purchased by Napoli for 5 million pounds – 11.6 million pounds/18.1 million dollars. Along with devouring the world’s supply of cocaine, Maradona peaked at Napoli, leading the club to two Serie A titles and the 1989 UEFA Cup, and that small matter of leading Argentina to win the 1986 World Cup.

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1987 – Ruud Gullit – After starring for PSV and Feyenoord, Gullit joined Van Basten and later joined by Rijkaard to form the famous Dutch trio that dominated Italy & Europe with AC Milan and the Netherlands. Gullit was purchased for 6 million pounds – 12.1 million pounds/18.9 million dollars today. With Milan Gullit won three Serie A titles and two back to back European Cups, the last team to win the title consecutively. He also captained the Netherlands to their only international title in 1988, scoring the first goal in their 2-0 win over the USSR, claiming the 1988 Euro.

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1990 – Roberto Baggio – In a transfer that pains any Fiorentina fan to this day, Roberto Baggio switched the Violet Firenze club colors for Juventus’ zebra camiseta. Baggio’s transfer fee was 8 million pounds, 13.1 million/20.4 million dollars today. He won only one league title with Juventus during a season he spent mostly injured, but was considered the best player in the world at the time, winning the FIFA World Player of the year in 1993.

1992 – Three Players – All involving Italian clubs – First it was French striker Jean-Pierre Papin, leaving Marseille after six incredible seasons with the club (134 league goals) for 10 million pounds – 14.8 million/23.1 million dollars today. Papin had a decent first season with AC Milan but injuries and age quickly pushed him out of the club a year later. Next that summer was Gianluca Vialli – After eight successful seasons with Sampdoria, including the 1991 league title and the 1990 Cup Winners’ Cup, Vialli left to Juventus for 12 million pounds – 17.8/27.8 million dollars today. After a rough first two seasons at Turin, Vialli blossomed in 1994-1995, helping the club win its first league title since 1986 and a year later its second Champions League. The Final record breaker that summer and one of the biggest flops ever was Gianluigi Lentini – The Torino winger who was bought by AC Milan for 13 million pounds – 19.3 million/30 million dollars in today’s money. Lentini is still playing at amateur level today.

1996 – Alan Shearer – A year after leading Blackburn to a historic Premiership title, Alan Shearer chose Newcastle (his hometown) over Manchester United, leaving for 15 million pounds – 20 million/31.2 million dollars today. Shearer could never get Newcastle that league title, but did score 148 goals in 10 seasons with the club until retiring in 2006.

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1997 – Ronaldo – Ronaldo had an amazing 1996-1997 season with Barcelona, establishing himself in about a year from a promising striker to the world’s best player, but wanted out for more money. He left to Italy, signing with Inter – a 19.5 million pound fee, 25.3 million/39.5 million dollars today. Ronaldo had a fantastic first season, but injuries ruined the rest of his Italian stay, until the 2002 World Cup which saw him make a Phoenix like resurrection, winning the title with Brazil.

1998 – Denilson – One of the bigger flops of all time, Denilson was purchased by Real Betis from Sao Paulo for 21.5 million pounds – 27.3 million/42.6 million dollars today. Denilson dazzled with tricks and his dribbling skills, but never helped Betis establish itself as a top club in Spain.

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1999 – Christian Vieri – Vieri scored 122 goals for Inter during his six seasons with the club, but never helped the nerazzurri win a league title. He came from Lazio for 32 million pounds – 39.8 million/62 million dollars today. Vieri also scored 23 goals in 49 caps for the Italian national team. Inter was the only club he stayed with for over a season. He retired in 2009.

2000 – Two Players – First it was Hernan Crespo, who left Parma for Lazio. The transfer fee was 35.5 million pounds – 43.6 today, 68 million dollars. Crespo played only two seasons at the Rome based club, scoring 48 goals, before joining Inter Milan. Luis Figo was next, making the unthinkable Barca-Real switch, beginning the first Galacticos era at Madrid. He joined for 37 million pounds – 45.4 million/70.8 million dollars today. Figo helped Real win two league titles and one Champions League (2002), winning the FIFA World Player of the year in 2001.

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2001- Zinedine Zidane – I was born in 1982, so I never really got to see Maradona play during his prime. For me, along with the Brazilian Ronaldo (with Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo needing a World Cup win to join them), Zidane is the greatest player I have ever seen. A year after Figo arrived, Zidane’s arrival, backed by his World Cup and Euro triumphs with France, really made Real a super-team, at least on paper. He arrived for 46 million pounds – 55.3 today, about 86 million dollars. Zidane won one league title and one Champions League with Real Madrid and retired after the 2006 World Cup and his famous headbutting of Marco Materazzi in the final.

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2009 – Kaka – The beginning of the “Galacticos 2.0″ Project was signing Kaka, who arrived after six very impressive seasons at AC Milan, helping the club to one Serie A title and one Champions League trophy. He was signed for 56 million pounds, about 87 million dollars. So far, his time with Real hasn’t been exactly on par with expectations. He had a pretty disappointing World Cup as well. I just can’t see him succeed on a side with Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka needs to be the main man. Speaking of Cristiano Ronaldo, he joined the new Galacticos project soon enough for a fee of 80 million pounds – 124 million dollars. Ronaldo, besides a few injuries and suspensions had another fantastic season individually – scoring 33 goals in 35 matches in all competitions. Still, Real failed to win the league and in Europe.

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South African fans can’t enjoy their 2-1 win over France, which wasn’t enough – The host nation didn’t make it out of the group stage

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Nigeria’s Vincent Enyeama covering up his face after Nigeria couldn’t beat South Korea, making a group stage exit for the 2010 World Cup

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Slovenia needed one point in their match against England to qualify from the group stage. They lost 1-0, and got knocked out after Donovan scored for the United States

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Medhi Lacen of Algeria can’t take the crushing injury time 1-0 loss to the United States, sending his side home after three group matches

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Australia’s captain, Lucas Neill, after their 2-1 win over Serbia, which wasn’t enough to secure a place in the next round

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Samuel Eto’o couldn’t lead Cameroon to grab any points during the group stage, losing three times in the 2010 World Cup, leaving the last match in tears

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Fabio Quagliarella was fantastic after coming on as a sub against Slovakia. That didn’t help the former World champions, Italy, avoid a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Slovakia, and make an early exit for the 2010 World Cup

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South Korea’s Lee Chung-Yong scored, but it wasn’t enough for the Koreans who lost to a brilliant Luis Suarez double. The rain doesn’t help when you lose

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Arturo Vidal of Chile doesn’t handle Chile’s 3-0 loss to Brazil too well. Chile started with two wins showing some impressive style, but when facing class opponents like Spain and Brazil couldn’t avoid defeats

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Wayne Rooney couldn’t cope with the huge expectations, and failed to perform in each and every single match during England’s 2010 World Cup. The 4-1 painful loss to Germany was no different

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Yuto Nagatomo of Japan can’t hold back the tears after their penalty shootout loss against Paraguay

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Portugal’s keeper, Eduardo, conceded only goal in four matches during the 2010 World Cup. Unfortunately, David Villa’s goal was the one that sent him packing

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Kaka’s 2010 World Cup wasn’t one he’d like to remember, and he clearly shows his emotions walking off after Brazil’s 2-1 loss against the Netherlands

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One of the most amazing and tragic turn of events in World Cup History. Asamoah Gyan can’t hold back after Ghana getting knocked out by Uruguay, losing in the penalty shoot out. Gyan missed a 120th minute penalty that would have sent Ghana into the Semi Final

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Gabriel Heinze needs Maradona to console him after Argentina got humiliated by Germany in the quarter final, 4-0

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Bastian Schweinsteiger was the key to Germany’s dominating midfield during the first five matches and especially in the 4-1 and 4-0 victories over England and Argentina. In the semi final loss against Spain he wasn’t at his best, like the whole team, and here he’s consoling Philipp Lahm, who was very emotional after the 1-0 loss to Spain

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After both teams have been criticized during the tournament for playing dull and un-imaginative football, far from the traditions both nations’ sides have shown in the past, Dunga’s “European” style didn’t work against a Netherlands team that have won every match during this tournament but have been far from impressive during those four wins.

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Brazil scored early after Melo found Robinho with a fantastic pass, cutting through the puzzled Dutch defense. A friend of mine said two seconds later : Robinho is one of the top 3 players in the world, together with Ronaldo and Messi. Yeah right.

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Brazil did show us some nice dazzle with a few combinations between Kaka and the friends, but made a huge mistake by slowing down the pace of the game. The Dutch didn’t really show up in the first half, but Brazil, or should I say Dunga, didn’t strike the iron while it was still hot, instead letting Sneijder and Van Bommel become more and more comfortable, going down 1-0 behind at half time with the belief that something can be done.

The best diver not excited with Robinho

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Brazil came out flat during the second half, and despite nothing special coming from the Dutch, Brazil’s lack of killer instinct  and one horrible mistake by Julio Cesar lost them the match. Felipe Melo shaved Sneijder’s cross, levelling things at 1-1, and from then on Brazil lost its grasp on the match. Melo, Silva, Alves and Kaka couldn’t regain dominance in the middle, while the Netherlands grew in confidence, with Sneijder feeding Van Persie and the diving Robben again and again. Eventually, Sneijder was the man to put the final nail in the Selecao 2010 World Cup coffin, heading in Kuyt’s flick.

Felipe Melo, never a symbol of tranquility, lost it when he stepped on Arjen Robben, and got sent off. Brazil were lost, and were lucky not to end this game with a much heavier defeat, as Robben and Van Persie continued their confused antics when getting near to Cesar’s defenseless goal.

Didn't Deliever

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Now What? Dunga won’t stay as head coach probably – failures, meaning not winning the World Cup don’t mean more years for the reigning head coach. Brazil’s failure comes down to two players – Robinho and Kaka, the two most important players on this side and the only creative force on a mostly tactically disciplined side. They both had bad seasons, with Robinho even going back to Brazil, and both had short moments of brilliance in South Africa, not enough to get them through the quarter final hurdle for a second straight time.

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The Netherlands have a relatively comfortable draw, with either Uruguay or Ghana facing them next. It’s the World Cup Semi Final, so nothing is easy, but still, the Dutch are favored to reach the final. Van Bommel and Robben’s antics were borderline disgusting, and it’s time that the people in charge start retroactively punishing players for diving and feigning injuries. It’s becoming a disease in this beautiful game, which has its flaws and needs fixing. Back to the Oranje – Nothing too brilliant, but like we’ve said all along, maybe the new formula, which means good defense, strong midfield and momentary brilliance from Sneijder and Robben, is the right one to finally win a World Cup.

The Goals

Robinho

Melo Own Goal

Wesley Sneijder

Melo Sent Off

Lionel Messi, Argentina

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So, how is the best player in the world doing, after a nearly super-human season? Three matches, three wins, 8 shots on goal, no goals or assists. Argentina are doing fine and Messi should have finished with a hat trick against Nigeria, who enjoyed a super day from Vincent Enyeama, but we want more from this kid, who turned 23 only two days ago. Argentina need more from him – After scoring 47 goals for Barca this season, we deserve more than a few dazzling dribbles and passes. We want goals, and despite the success so far, Argentina’s title hopes rely on his ability to create them.

Frank Lampard, England

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After the best season of his career, scoring 27 goals in all competitions for Chelsea, Lampard was supposed to be one of the trio that carries England to glory. Well, we all know that not even Capello can make the Gerrard-Lampard thing work in the middle, so he’s been movin’ Stevie G all around the pitch trying to make things work, and although Gerrard looked much better against Slovenia, Lampard was still a no show, not showing any of the vision and his ability to create threats and opportunities like he has for Chelsea this season. Now it’s Germany, and the midfield battle with Schweinsteiger (doubtful) and Khadeira. England need Rooney, but Rooney looked much better against Slovenia. England must, must have Lampard playing better.

Kaka, Brazil

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I didn’t like the booing against Brazil in yesterday’s 0-0 draw with Portugal. It was the result both teams wanted and felt comfortable with, but still, Brazil are more than just a team. It’s the “Joga Bonito” illusion created by dozens of magical players along the years. Dunga’s team, despite the talent it possesses, isn’t this type of side. Everything he’s built in the last three years which have been very successful is based on the fact he has Kaka, who is the heart and soul of this team. His ability to orchestrate the counter and the standing attack perfectly, to pick the ball up from the back or the DM’s is vital, and Brazil just don’t have the creativity in midfield to do otherwise. They have wonderful wingers and full backs and a very efficient, although he’s a cheating bastard, of a striker, but the bottom line is – Kaka has to be there for it to work. He’s back from his suspension against the dangerous Chileans, and he needs to look much better than he did for Real and more like the Kaka from before the sending off against the Ivorians.

Fernando Torres, Spain

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It has been a rough season for Torres, and it’s showing. He got to training camp still recovering from the injury that set him back so many games with Liverpool, and it seems he hasn’t recovered from it, at least not mentally. Lucky for Spain they have David Villa, but Torres, who has looked awful in the matches against Chile and Honduras, has to start thinking. He’s a little rusty, understandable, but every time he has the ball he chooses the worst option possible, usually an attempt to dribble against two or three defenders. Spain, who haven’t exactly been looking like the “New Brazil” this tournament, need to have the Torres who has scored 72 goals in 116 matches for Liverpool the last three seasons, not the pale version we’ve been watching in South Africa the last couple of weeks. Portugal play a very tight defending game, and one David Villa might not be enough to make it through to the Quarter Finals. Or maybe Del Bosque should just bench Torres.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal

The usual Ronaldo pose

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Oh, Ronaldo. I am one of those who thinks he’s a better player than Messi, but having such a huge ego gets in your way. He played one decent game so far, the 7-0 drubbing of the North Koreans, where he joined the scorers and didn’t seem to enjoy the fact others were until he grabbed the sixth. Against Brazil it was another one-man show, when it was evident the in the few times he did raise his head and look for teammates, Portugal were and are much more dangerous. He’s got so much attention on him, and instead of being the bigger man, the better player, he’s trying to be the only one who’ll decide things for Portugal. With that attitude, it won’t happen. He can do it all, but sometimes it’s better if he focuses on making others better, which is something Ronaldo doesn’t like doing.

Arjen Robben, Netherlands

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Eighteen minutes against Cameroon were enough to see the Robben makes the Netherlands much better. After a fantastic season with Bayern (23 Goals in 37 matches), Robben got injured during a warm-up match vs Hungary, leaving him out of the first two matches in Group E. The Dutch managed without him, beating Denmark (2-0) and Japan (1-0), but looked very bad, needing a fluke own goal and the combination of bad goalkeeping and the Jabulani magic in order to get the six points. Robben is the best player they have and probably the only game changer, the one player who breaks out of the mold and creates havoc with the opposing teams and is impossible to keep in check the full 90 minutes. If he’s ready to start, then the Oranje fans have a lot to smile about.

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Very similar to the Uruguayans, Paraguay have a strong side, with some very talented front men and a solid defensive midfield and back, but play very conservatively, making it very hard to surprise them. Slovakia’s slow and boring style was not match for the South American efficiency, with Enrique Vera scoring in the first half and Cristian Riveros finishing the job in the 86th minute. Paraguay won’t mess up against New Zealand (just a gut feeling) while Slovakia face Italy needing a win to qualify.

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Lippi, like Capello, is in deep trouble. Italy played worst than they did against Paraguay, going behind early to Shane Smeltz’ goal, despite him being offside and a foul on Gilardino (maybe the worst player in this World Cup so far). Again, Lippi decided to go with the wrong starters, but despite his substitutions at half time, Italy never broke down the Kiwi’s defense except for that penalty kick, converted by Iaquinta, as Mark Paston was fantastic in New Zealand’s goal.

Italy can still qualify with a draw against Slovakia if Paraguay beat New Zealand, but they have bigger troubles, concerning their horrible play and maybe the lack of a future Italian generation.

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A boring first half was upstaged by a fantastic second one. Luis Fabiano scored through a powerful shot in the first half, but both teams were far from impressive, as Brazil just couldn’t get possession and the Ivorians just couldn’t get any decent shots at Cesar’s goal.

Second half? Different story – Melo and Silva took over the middle, allowing Kaka much more freedom to operate and work everybody else.

Fabiano scored the second, which looked like a wonder goal at first sight, but pure cheating after the replay. The referee seemed to be in on it as later replays showed. Very troubling indeed.

Elano added the third as Brazil seemed to en route to a very convincing win before the Ivorians started chopping legs, sending Elano out and not going easy on Kaka, Bastos and Dani Alves.

The ref didn’t send anyone off, so Kaka did a little payback of his own, finding himself sent off. Drogba made it interesting, making it 3-1.

Picture of the Day – Kaka Sent Off

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Fan of the Day – Italy

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Group Tables

Group F

1. Paraguay, 4 points (3-1)
2. Italy, 2 points (2-2)
3. New Zealand, 2 points (2-2)
4. Slovakia, 1 point (1-3)

Group G

1. Brazil, 6 points (5-2)
2. Portugal, 1 point (0-0)
3. Ivory Coast, 1 point (1-3)
4. North Korea, 0 points (1-2)

* North Korea and Portugal have played only one match

Top Scorers

1. Gonzalo Higuain (Argentina) – 3 Goals
2. Diego Forlan (Uruguay), Asamoah Gyan (Ghana), Elano (Brazil), Luis Fabiano (Brazil) – 2 Goals
3. 46 Player with one goal, 2 own goals

What We’ve Learned

Paraguay – Not surprised at all by the Paraguayans, who Peter picked to top the group. A little less selfishness by their forwards could have resulted in a much more impressive win but still, looked solid and tough, like expected. Only need a draw against New Zealand to qualify, but despite the All-White’s surprising results, I can’t see them dropping points there.
Slovakia – Didn’t show up. They have talent, which they showed against New Zealand, but maybe the shocking draw there knocked the wind out of Weiss’s men, without anyone playing anything close to a decent offensive game. Have a battle with Italy, and Slovakia have to win. Italy are weaker than ever, but still, Slovakia just seem to slow and lacking purpose to pose any real threat.
Italy – Where to begin? The goal they conceded should have been disallowed, but Lippi is making the same mistakes over and over again. Camoranesi should start, Gilardino shouldn’t, and maybe it’s time for Pirlo to make an appearance. Italy just lack any kind of sophistication and creativity most of the time, without off the ball movement and clever double-pass plays, they’re at risk of not going through the group.
New Zealand – Two matches and still no loss – Ricky Herbert’s squad is defying the odds and have a small chance, if they stun Paraguay, to qualify from the group. Doesn’t matter what happens next, they’ve made history with today’s draw.
Brazil – Something clicked for Brazil in the second half, and when they turn it on, there’s nobody better. Melo and Gilberto Silva took over in the second half, and that’s the key in order to let Kaka start running the show. Maybe Dani Alves should get a chance to start instead of Robinho who really looked off today.
Ivory Coast – Talented group, but with an injured Drogba and a nobody at the sidelines “un-coaching” the team, they didn’t stand a chance. Even when they controlled the game in parts of the first half, just didn’t look dangerous. Need a North Korean miracle to keep their hopes alive.

Tomorrow

Portugal – North Korea – After England and Italy, anything is possible. Despite the clear advantage the Portuguese have, no one will be surprised if the tough Koreans get a point. After all, Ronaldo didn’t seem to be handling the pressure to well in game 1.
Chile – Switzerland – The battle for the top of the group – the technical Chileans against the organized and tough Swiss. Very tough one to call – Switzerland have yet to beat a South American rival at the World Cup, and I do prefer technical sides. Chile also learned from Spain’s loss I believe, and Switzerland will probably be a bit more open against the South Americans.
Spain – Honduras – Another upset? Can’t see it. Spain are just too good to not go through, and a big win over the Hondurans, the weakest team in South Africa, could be a great start on their way back to the top of the group. Just don’t forget to start with Torres.

Last – Goal count: 57 Goals, 29 Matches. Good day, 1.97 is looking much better.

Brazil – Will Dunga’s “European Style” Deliever the Goods?

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Everyone expects Brazil to be a fantasy team, but that concept didn’t work in 2006 as the super-ego squad didn’t make it past France in the quarter finals, Brazil’s worst finish since 1990. Dunga came, and despite not winning a lot of fans in the Brazilian media for his style, he’s won titles. The 2007 Copa America and the 2009 Confederations Cup. He put a lot of emphasis on defense and defensive midfielders. Why shouldn’t he? Brazil finally have an abundance of quality and talent in the back four and between the posts, and he relys on his super-quick counter attacking players, orchestrated by Kaka, and Fabiano’s finishing. It may not be what people expect from a classic Brazil team, but it might be enough for a sixth World Cup trophy.

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England – Is Capello the Man to Relive 1966?

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England, at least in the last decade, always have talent. Maybe not perfectly technique-gifted type talent, but there’s enough to mount a serious challenge at the World Cup. Somehow, things always crumble. More often than not, it comes to penalties. Capello is arguably the best coach in the world. The bottom line is, he wins titles. He has Wayne Rooney upfront, maybe the best forward in the world. England were one of if not the most impressive side during the qualifying group and also got to avenge and handily thrash Croatia twice. But it’s been a long time since then, and it again remains to be seen if the huge pressure from the fans and British Media won’t crush England’s players. The more we get closer, the less optimistic I am about England’s chances. But if Rooney continues his fantastic club form, they have a shot. He’s that good.

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Argentina -Will Maradona Run Naked?? Just Kiddin’ – Is the Barcelona Messi Going to Show Up?

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Now that we know Maradona is going to run naked if Argentina wins, maybe even some Argentinians don’t want the Albiceleste to win for the third time in World Cup history. Maradona knows he needs the best player in the world to forget about the grueling club season he just finished (53 matches, 47 goals) and start showing his magic for Argentina as well, something that hasn’t happened during the almost tragic-ending qualifying stage. He’s got what is maybe the best attack (including bench) in the world. He has an OK midfield and a probably less than that defense. Enough? If hefinally plays the right tactics, something that will allow Messi to roam free like Guardiola does, and Lionel doesn’t cave under the huge national pressure, we might get to see Maradona naked.

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Spain -2008 Repeat?

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The most talented side in the world, that also plays the most beautiful soccer in the world. Enough for Spain’s first World Cup trophy? Spain finished fourth in 1950, but since haven’t made it further than the quarter final. They are loaded in about every position, and if Torres and Fabregas return to full health, I find it hard to believe anyone can match up with them, trying to play them straight up and not go Inter on them. Still, Marcos Senna, who was extremely effective during the Euro 2008 win, won’t be around this time, and it will be interesting to see who will Del Bosque play in the middle, and will he play both Villa and Torres or leave (probably the Liverpool man) one of them on the bench.

Africa – Will an African team shine on it’s own continent?

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Probably not. South Africa are one of the weakest sides in this tournament and my money is on them not making it through the group stage (France, Mexico, Uruguay). Still, just a reminder, no other host has ever failed to qualify from the group stage. Nigeria might make it out of Group B, but they weren’t very impressive in the Africa Cup of Nations and look like a group of very talented individuals who share a nationality and not much else. Algeria might surprise a few, but they have a shot of joining England from Group C into the last 16, but don’t be surprised if the opposite happens and they fail to win a match. Ghana are in a very tough group and without Essien don’t stand much of a chance. They also looked horrible again the Dutch tonight (lost 4-1). Cameroon? Eto’o is probably the only thing they have to sell, and he seems past his prime and not too happy after Milla’s comments about him. Ivory Coast? The second best team in Africa (Egypt are the best) but a side no one really wanted to face – fast, physical and more experienced than in 2006, their debut in the Mundial. If Didier Drogba emulates his 2009-2010 form for Chelsea, they might be a very dangerous team for Brazil and Portugal to face.

North Korea – How did they get here?

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Defense, Defense, Defense and luck. None of these will help them in a group with Brazil, Portugal and the Ivorians. Kim Jong Il’s side might set a record for conceded goals in a tournament when it’s all said and done.

Arjen Robben – Bayern Munich, 24 Million Euros

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This high flying Dutchman was always one of the best wingers in European football since his rise to prominence with Chelsea. However like every season, the only barrier which separates this fresh Bavarian acquisition to be as phenomenal as Messi and Ronaldo is his tendency for injuries a thing that seems to be his only setback from lighting up European football. This season the injury-barren Robben scored 8 goals and made 5 assists in 14 appearances (5 of them as a substitute) and despite being an absentee up until now, Robben shows why his price tag is so expensive. With a record of winning a Championship with every club he transferred to and the recent change of fortunes in the results Bundesliga and Champions League-wise, (including the 2-1 victory over Fiorentina and 15 games without a loss in all competitions) fans of Bayern Munich can be certain that he is the right man to bring the club back in the scene amongst Europe’s elite clubs.

Emmanuel Adebayor -  Manchester City, 25 Million Pounds

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With a record of scoring in every odd game for Arsenal including some memorable goals from last season (including the bicycle kick against Villarreal in last year’s Champions League quarter finals) Adebayor was surely on a way to find another happy owner after he disrupted the harmony at the Emirates stadium and burned his bridges at the club. The Kanu lookalike found his new employers in the nouveu-riche Man City. Adebayor started the season in excellent form for Man City as he scored in his first four matches consecutively including the famous 4-2 victory over Arsenal, in which Adebayor kicked deliberately in the face of former teammate Robin Van Persie (for that conduct he was banned for 3 matches) and for running the full length of the pitch to taunt Arsenal fans after he scored. With 9 goals in 17 games for City so far and a possible 4th place finish, Adebayor can look back with a smile on this season despite the horrific tragedy he suffered with the Togolese national team in the African Cup of Nations.

Mario Gomez- Bayern Munich 30-35 Million Euros

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Another mega money acquisition for the Bavarian club as they foresaw the inevitable departing of former Bundesliga top scorer, Luca Toni. Mario Gomez arrived to Munich after a successful 6 year period at Stuttgart where he had a record of scoring every odd game and a championship in 2007 under his belt, (a Bundesliga player of the year award was handed to him that season as well) with every intention of fulfilling his massive potential. Gomez started this season, like the rest of Bayern, poorly. Being regularly off target reminded Bayern fans of the disappointing player they saw at Euro 2008 (especially the infamous miss against Austria) as they gloomily thought that the biggest purchase in the history of the Bundesliga, will prove a failure. But the recent turn of events at the club proved to be changing for Gomez as well as he managed to score 14 goals in 33 appearances, in all competitions this season. For now he is not the player Bayern has hoped for and has proved to be an expensive liability but the 24 year old striker hasn’t said the last word.

Dmytro Chygrynskiy- Barcelona, 25 Million Euros

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Seems to be a joke right? 25 Million Euros for a 22 year old defender from Ukraine? Well if you don’t look superficially at it, you will find that Chygrynskiy is the captain of the Ukrainian national team and had been instrumental for Shakthar as they won last season’s Uefa Cup (the first time for a Ukrainian club to win the trophy since the disbandment of the USSR). With an aerial dominating presence in both ends of the pitch and proved defensive skills, Dmytro has played in 8 occasions thus far and is not a key figure as he is for Ukraine. But with two Ukrainian championships and a hairdo similar to Puyol’s (or Jesus, if it’s more fitting) Barca fans can expect this guy to be a hard rock in the back of their defense.

Kaka- Real Madrid, 65 Million Euros

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Until Ronaldo came to Madrid, Kaka broke the world transfer record as the club offered the reluctant AC Milan to sell their most beloved player. Since his arrival at the club, the former FIFA World Player Of The Year, Kaka scored 4 goals and made 5 assists in 18 appearances, a record which is not formidable as his whole career was, but it’s pretty tough to be the star of a team that maintains the services of Benzema, Ronaldo, Raul and Xabi Alonso. Kaka has achieved everything possible at club level but anything less than a championship and a Champions League trophy would be considered a failure for the 27 year old attacking midfielder.

Cristiano Ronaldo- Real Madrid, 94 Million Euros

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Ronaldo, Arguably the best player in the world at the moment along with fellow La Liga superstar, Leo Messi, has broken the world transfer record this summer, after he put in a couple of memorable seasons for Man Utd. With this price tag Ronaldo has the whole world on his shoulders as he is the key man who is suppose to bring back European glory for Real Madrid for the first time since the 2002 Champions League final against Leverkusen. So how has he done so far? Well Real Madrid are still in the La Liga race with Barcelona and will face Lyon in the second leg of the round of 16 after they lost in the Stade de Gerland 1-0. But it seems that for Ronaldo business are usual as he scored 11 goals in 13 matches and made one assist in all competitions. Despite the face that Manuel Pellegrini still tries to adapt to the Santiago Bernabeu and that Real are showing inconsistency in terms of quality of play, Ronaldo still provides his weekly rations which puts him, as always, high on the efficiency table.However, Cristiano Ronaldo, who is the highest paid footballer today and the prime target for the Madrid media, will consider anything less than a major title (European or domestic) a failure in his eyes and Real Madrid’s.

Samuel Eto’o and Zlatan Ibrahimovic Inter and Barcelona (respectively) 69 Million Euros

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When Barcelona decided to hand over Eto’o and 49 Million Euros everyone thought Laporta went mental, because if you look at Eto’o’s phenomenal record at Barcelona of 130 goals in 200 appearances with 36 goals coming last year (including a goal in the Champions League final) then there is no good enough reason to let him go. But as the season continues we see that the exchange, which was financially wrong for Barcelona, turned out to be a success for Barca as Ibrahimovic scored 12 goals and made 5 assists in 19 matches in all competitions, a prolific record which resembles his days at Inter and Eto’o finding it hard to retain his fine form at Barca as he scored 8 goals and made 2 assists in 20 matches. Maybe a showdown between Barca and Inter in the latter stages of the Champions League can show us who adapted better and who made the better deal out of the two, as Eto’o definitely wants to avenge his rejection by Barca’s bosses and we know Eto’o – when he wants to avenge someone, he does it with ease and pleasure, just ask Real Madrid.

Carlos Tevez- Man City, 25 Million Pounds

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This Argentine who crossed from the red side of Manchester to the blue side (including the famous billboard “Welcome To Manchester”) has been in excellent form this season for City as he scored 20 goals and made 5 assists in 33 matches and is currently the leading scorer at the club. Tevez proved to be a successful signing for Man City but that wont satisfy Tevez who is eager to show Ferguson he made a mistake by not signing him on a permanent deal. A 4th spot and a goal against Man Utd in the forthcoming derby will probably be the biggest achievement for him and for City.

Karim Benzema- Real Madrid, 35 Million Euros

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After two impressive seasons at Lyon, Benzema transferred to Real Madrid as a key part in Florentino Perez’s Galacticos project. With 8 goals and 4 assists in 25 Matches for the Blancos, Benzema is disappointing as he hasn’t lived up to the expectations and saw the usually less favored Argentine Gonzalo Higuain proving to be more prolific than him. The last third of this season will maybe crucial for the 23 year old as he will have to be instrumental for the attack in order to help Real break Barca’s hegemony and prove himself valuable for the impatient Perez.

Xabi Alonso- Real Madrid, 30 Million Pounds

The man who’s absence was the main reason for Liverpool fall this season, Xabi Alonso is providing his usual performances with Real Madrid but with so many stars in the team his contribution seems to be relatively unnoticed. With 26 games under his belt and 4 assists in all competitions, Alonso is maybe rethinking his move to Madrid from his warm Scouse home but a Championship will be a big compensation for him and will prove his move worthwhile.

Important Transfers that proved to be successful:

Kolo Toure- Man City 16 Million Pounds

Gareth Barry-Man City 12 Million Pounds

Darren Bent- Sunderland 16.5 Million Pounds

Important Transfers that proved to be unsuccessful:

Alberto Aquilani- Liverpool 16.9 Million Pounds

Glen Johnson- Liverpool 17.5 Million Pounds

Klaas Jan Huntelaar- Milan 15 Million Euros

Joleon Lescott- Man City 24 Million Pounds

Numbers 9-14, 9.75 Million Dollars

Steven Gerrard

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Not the greatest season so far in 2009-2010 for Stevie G, scoring 5 league goals so far, with the last one coming in December. Liverpool’s disappointing form this season is directly related with his sub-par performances, and an improved spring campaign from him could mean Champions League next season.

Ronaldinho

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Unlike Gerrard, Ronaldinho had his fortunes turn for the good this season after two very tough years for the Brazilian phenom who not too long ago was the undisputed best in the world. He has scored 9 for AC Milan this season and if he keeps enjoying the game like he seems to be this year, we can expect some great things from the rebuilding team in the coming years.

Xavi

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Not as productive statistically like last year (2 goals, 6 assists so far), but he’s still the heart of the best side in Spain and probably Europe. Lets not forget he has a chance to lead Spain to it’s first World Cup trophy in a few months in South Africa.

Thierry Henry

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After sort of a comeback season in Barca’s record breaking 2008-2009, Henry is finally playing his age, scoring only 2 goals in 13 league matches this season for Barcelona. Somehow, he became the soccer world’s biggest villain for a while after hand-balling before scoring the goal that put France in the World Cup against Ireland.

Frank Lampard

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The general opinion is that Lampard is having a so-so season compared to his usual high standards. A look at the stat sheet shows Lampard is with 10 goals and 10 assists this season, not too shabby. More importantly, Chelsea are still top of the table despite some erratic form of late, but his biggest goals for this season are probably winning the Champions League and the World Cup with England. Hey, everyone has a right to dream.

John Terry

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Another Chelsea player who is playing well this season, but is having a rough time off the pitch, with his whole affair with Wayne Bridge’s girl a while back exposed. Wayne Bridge even got permission not to shake his hand in the upcoming Chelsea vs Man City match.

Number 8 – Carlos Tevez, 10.5 Million Dollars

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Speaking of Manchester City, here is their first player on this list, Carlitos Tevez who has been fantastic for the lesser Manchester side after a woeful start to the season. He has already scored 13 goals this season, one shy of his best in the premiership (14, 2007-2008).

Numbers 6-7, 11.1 Million Dollars

Karim Benzema

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It’s sometimes hard standing out on such a star studded side, but despite pushing Raul to the bench and maybe across the Atlantic, Benzema is slightly disappointing and suffering from Higuain’s fantastic season.

Emmanuel Adebayor

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Adebayor start out firing on all cylinders for his new club, but after his suspension due to his disgusting actions against Van Persie, it seemed that he and City lost the momentum. After the tragedy in Angola and some time off, it seems Adebayor is coming back to his early-season-self, scoring three goals in City’s last four matches.

Number 5 – Kaka, 13.05 Million Dollars

The Brazilian Galactico is probably disappointing many fans with his stat line of 4 goals and 5 assists in 18 matches this season, but the way Real play, with Ronaldo on your side, the numbers are obviously going to be lower than in the past. Still, it seems that Real’s style isn’t exactly best suited for Kaka to show his full arsenal of abilities. A big test will be coming in 10 days when Lyon arrive at Madrid for the second leg of their Champions League clash after a 1-0 win in France, with Kaka needing to prove he can lead this team even when Ronaldo isn’t himself. Oh, and he needs to win some minor trophy for a football obsessed nation this summer, no biggie.

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Number 3-4, 13.65 Million Dollars

Samuel Eto’o

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He hasn’t exactly been scoring in the numbers we’re used to from the Cameroon striker, but has 8 so far and Inter are leading the Serie A comfortably, so generally, life is good for Eto’o. Lets see how good they’ll be after the dust from the clash with Chelsea settles.
Lionel Messi

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The tiny Argentinian continues to play like the best in the world, maybe because he is. 16 Goals and 8 assists in 19 league matches for the Catalan side while Maradona wonders why he isn’t playing like that when he wears the Argentina shirt.

Number 2 – Zlatan Ibrahimovic, 15.6 Million Dollars

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Still Barcelona. Zlatan has cooled down since the calender turned to 2010, but Barcelona are winning (almost all the time) and Zlatan, scoring or not, is one of the best players in the world.

Number 1 – Cristiano Ronaldo, 16.95 Million Dollars

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The most expensive player in history deserves to be the highest paid player in the game. With 11 goals in 13 league matches, the only thing that seems to stop one of the most hated athletes in the world are the occasional injuries and the occasional suspension for breaking an opponents nose.

*For our previous installments – Best Goalkeeper, Best Centre Backs, Best Full/Wing Backs.

Xavi, Barcelona & Spain

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It took the man Xavi replaced in Barcelona’s midfield, Josep Guardiola, to become Barca’s head coach in order for Xavi to truly become a super play-maker, maybe the best in the world. The last two seasons have been amazing for the Catalan player, excelling in Spain’s triumph in the 2008 Euro and winning the Player of the Tournament award and being right in the center of things during Barca’s record breaking year in 2008-2009, finishing third in most major player of the year awards for 2009. He was also led the La Liga (20) and the Champions League in assists last season.

Andres Iniesta, Barcelona & Spain

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The second side to Xavi, and the two do seem at times like a two-headed monster, dominating the midfield with ease, flair and grace. Iniesta is an attacking midfielder who pretty much roams freely around the pitch, and it seems that since the 2008 Euro, the softness that seemed to limit his game evaporated, with Iniesta looking at times like the best player in the world. He won the Best Spanish Player of the Year for his performances in 2009. With that said, his goal against Chelsea in the Champions League Semi Final is his most memorable moment for the ending year.

Xabi Alonso, Real Madrid & Spain

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Sometimes, you need a player to go away to understand how good and important he was for you. As Steven Gerrard said about a month ago, he was crushed by Alonso’s departure to Madrid, which downgraded Liverpool from being on the brink of winning the Premiership to a Champions League contender at best. Alonso is what you’d call a deep lying midfielder, and when you put him alongside a leg breaking DM that frees Alonso to more attacking duties, his fantastic vision, passing ability and long range shooting. The Basque player might be a starter for most national sides, but he’s stuck in Spain, behind the likes of Xavi and Fabregas.

Cesc Fabregas, Arsenal & Spain

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Another player born and raised in the Barcelona youth ranks, Fabregas is THE heart of Arsenal since Viera and Henry left, developing into one of the best players in the world. He broke out into the spotlight earlier then Wenger intended for him, but it was easy to see why very early on. With Arsenal’s lack of trophies in recent years it wouldn’t be wild guessing saying that Fabregas’ days with Arsenal are numbered, unless Wenger finally gives up on the whole “only young players” purchasing thing of his and finally brings a proven leading man to help Fabregas anchor Arsenal to it’s first league title since 2004.

Kaka, Real Madrid & Brazil

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The first of the “New Galacticos”, Kaka has yet to show his full arsenal of abilities this season for Real, but Real Madrid, despite being very close to Barcelona in the La Liga, seems to still be looking for it’s identity and style due all the changes made in the club during the summer. Although Kaka does have his moments of brilliance at times, he flourishes when there’s more order and discipline in Real’s attacking plays, unlike Cristiano Ronaldo, who pretty much flourishes anywhere and doesn’t really care what’s going on around him. When things do go the way he likes, Kaka’s passing and ability to control the pace of the game make him one of the best things to watch in football today. Maybe he’s saving his energy for the World Cup.

Michael Essien, Chelsea & Ghana

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Like Xabi Alonso, Essien importance can be seen by the difference between Chelsea’s 2008-2009 season and this year. Yeah, they also had Scholari as manager to do some damage, but Essien’s absence in the middle of the park was probably Chelsea’s biggest problem last season. This season, despite recent mishaps in the league, the Blues are still on top of the Premiership, and Essien’s ability to be anywhere on the pitch, defending and attacking, is one of the main reasons Chelsea are leading the league. His absence will be felt very soon again, as he joins Ghana for the African Nations Cup.

Frank Lampard, Chelsea & England

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Although a slight dip of form in this season for Lampard (maybe due to the formation change done by Ancelotti), Lampard is still one of the best midfielder in the Premiership and the world, ranking 9th on the all-time premiership scorers list and 7th in assists. Last season was maybe the best of his career, although Chelsea fell short of winning the title and the Champions League yet again. This year he has these long stretches in some matches where you feel his not even on the pitch, something that didn’t happen in previous years, but he still is very dominant in Chelsea’s attacking play most of the time, and his ability to shoot from almost anywhere without too much preparation and his fantastic passing ability make him a very dangerous player.

Steven Gerrard, Liverpool & England

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Like Lampard, not having the best of seasons, as his whole club is. Gerrard has missed some games due to injury, but since his return he doesn’t seem like the player of ol’. Something is lacking, maybe passion, cause Gerrard, despite not looking like the most outgoing fella’, is driven by passion on the pitch. He’s Liverpool’s motor, engine and heart, no matter if Torres or Benayoun are on and in good form. Gerrard played more like a second striker last season which brought out the best of him and of Liverpool, but this season, due to the lack of someone who can actually build up plays from midfield, Gerrard needs to drift back to a more central role many times, which limits his game and hurts Liverpool. If Aquilani does become what Benitez believes he can be, there’s a good chance Gerrard and Liverpool will be getting closer to fourth place as the season progresses.

Diego, Juventus & Brazil

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The fantastic Brazilian attacking midfielder, like Juventus, is having a pretty upside down kinda season. He started off brilliantly, scoring 2 goals against Roma in the Olimpico as Juve began with three consecutive wins. But since then, like the Bianconeri, his good has been mixed with a lot of bad, with his stat line currently sitting on 3 goals and 4 assists, not scoring a goal since November 7th. Maybe the win over Parma yesterday will kick-start Juve’s and Diego’s season, and he’ll start looking like the player he was in Werder Bremen, where he had 38 goals and 28 assists in three season in the Bundesliga, where he was, alongside Frank Ribery, the best player in the league.

Yoann Gourcuff, Bordeaux & France

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Maybe the comparisons with Zidane were too early, but Gourcuff is undoubtedly the best player in Ligue 1 currently, as he leads Bordeaux to what seems like it’s second straight league title (9 points ahead of Lille after 19 matches) and a successful Champions League campaign, in which they finished undefeated. The upcoming World Cup in South Africa, where Gourcuff will play with the French team, will be a good opportunity if Gourcuff is on track of becoming a great player or just a good one.