Fansided

The best 30 players at the World Cup

By James Dudko

Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal during the International friendly match match between Portugal and The Netherlands at Stade de Genève on March 26, 2018 in Geneva, Switzerland(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images)
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal during the International friendly match match between Portugal and The Netherlands at Stade de Genève on March 26, 2018 in Geneva, Switzerland(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images) /
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MUNICH, GERMANY – APRIL 25: Toni Kroos of Real Madrid runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final First Leg match between Bayern Muenchen and Real Madrid at the Allianz Arena on April 25, 2018 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Images)
MUNICH, GERMANY – APRIL 25: Toni Kroos of Real Madrid runs with the ball during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final First Leg match between Bayern Muenchen and Real Madrid at the Allianz Arena on April 25, 2018 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Images) /

15. Toni Kroos, midfielder, Germany

Real Madrid have bossed the Champions League for most of the last five years thanks to the most balanced midfield in Europe. Casemiro and Modric do their bit from deeper areas, but Toni Kroos is the one who provides some magic further forward.

It’s a task the 28-year-old has taken to without fuss. Kroos plays so well because of his ability to both control possession and offer a credible scoring threat.

The former Bayern Munich man is neat, quick-witted and efficient with his passing. He can also deliver a fierce shot from either foot, usually from the edge of the box.

Kroos will again take on the same role at the tip of a Germany midfield loaded with craft. Mesut Ozil, Ilkay Gundogan and Leon Goretzka will all play their parts, but Kroos’ flexibility and guile will be key for the defending champions.

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