50 Great Footballers Who Ruled 2012

40. Thiago Silva (AC Milan/Paris St Germain)

Thiago Silva Thiago Silva is that very rare commodity of a strong Brazilian centre-back, and his ability led to one of the biggest transfers of the summer with his move to PSG for ‚42 million. With a touch of flair being mixed with the power and tackling prowess he possesses in spades, it remains to be fully seen the effect that the hefty price tag will have on his playing future. FIFA 13 Rating - 87

39. Asmir Begovic (Stoke City)

One of the integral components in the tight Stoke City defence, Begovic has quickly displaced Tomas Sorensen and been a wall at the Britannia. This has inevitably attracted attention from the biggest clubs in England, and a consistent keeper has proved to be a rare jewel this season. And you can't get too much better than 27 goals conceded in 21 games so far this season. FIFA 13 Rating - 76

38. Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund)

Marco Reus The young winger Marcos Reus was transferred to Dortmund in January 2012, and has already scored 8 goals in his first 18 league games for the club. Now he has broken his way into the German national side, and seems to be set in their plans for the considerable future. His ability in Europe has been particularly impressive, as his skill and fleet-footed pace have the potential to tear teams apart in the future. FIFA 13 Rating - 84

37. Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich)

The Frenchman had been suffering from numerous injuries and personal issues in the years immediately leading to 2012, and honestly it could only have gotten better for Ribery. Providing 12 goals and 20 assists for the 2011-2012 season, it was his most productive season for Bayern Munich, and he will hopefully remain clear of injury to help lead the team to the Bundesliga title for 2013. http://youtu.be/xbbqOo15-Xg FIFA 13 Rating - 90

36. Santi Cazorla (Malaga/Arsenal)

The midfielder that is small in stature but has a major effect on the pitch. Beginning 2012 in Spain, his innovative passing and creativity led to Malaga reaching the Champions League, and he has carried his ability over to England, and Arsenal are reaping the benefits of his clever playmaking in front of goal. FIFA 13 Rating - 84
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I am a British student currently studying at the University of York, and have a passionate interest in WWE, English football (soccer) and video gaming.