FIFA 15: 10 Great Players Who've Already Been Downgraded

5. Xabi Alonso - FIFA 14: 85, FIFA 15: 84

Alonso Perhaps whoever carefully calculates the ratings at EA Sports also appears to receive a pay cheque from Real Madrid, such was their willingness to let the Spaniard go last week without a fight. In a move that has caught many by surprise, Xabi Alonso penned a long-term deal at Bavarian giants Bayern Munich after a successful five-year spell at Real Madrid. An integral part of the Madrid side, it smacks of deja-vu when the engine that was Claude Makelele was so readily dismissed to make way for David Beckham in 2003. Having featured 42 times in all competitions last season, Alonso was his usual, brilliant self, marshalling the defence, spraying 40 yard passes and leading by example. While they just about edged over the line in the end via extra-time, the Galacticos certainly missed his presence in the heated Champions League final encounter with Athletico Madrid in May. Perhaps it is because Alonso is no longer in the peak of his career, that he has been robbed of an extra digit. Turning 33 in November, he is certainly no spring chicken, as demonstrated by his recent decision to retire from international duty. With Real Madrid possessing a plethora of attacking talent, however, don't be surprised to see their lack of a backbone exposed time and time again, as they pine for the industry of a bearded warrior in Bavarian red.
Contributor
Contributor

Recent Journalism & New Media graduate. Insatiable thirst for all things football, and hopes to break into the field of sports journalism in the near future. Have made a significantly insignificant playing career out of receiving several slaps around the head for not passing the ball.