50 Great Footballers Who Ruled 2012

15. Luis Suarez (Liverpool)

Luis Suarez is a player that will always divide opinion, and spent the first half of his Liverpool career criticised for his lack of goals, tendency to hold the ball too long, and his numerous controversial traits, such as diving and the racial incident with Patrice Evra. However, especially since the start of the 2012/13 season, pundits and fans have begun to recognise his immense ability when he is on form. He has already scored over 20 goals in all competitions this season, and has begun to be referred to as one of the best strikers in the Premier League, the crown jewel in Liverpool's otherwise inconsistent team. Their fans will hope we continue to witness the brilliant side of Suarez going into the new year. FIFA 13 Rating - 87

14. Vincent Kompany (Manchester City)

Kompany The captain of the current Premier League champions, Vincent Kompany is one of the most eloquent and respected footballers in the world. The Man City centre-back commands one of the meanest defences in world football, as the side is virtually indestructible at home, and while their front-line's goals are drying up, Kompany's solid defence ensures that they are very rarely on the losing side. He has also been important at the other end of the pitch as well, scoring the solitary goal in their victory over rivals Man Utd to turn their fortunes around on their run to the title. It is no wonder he was awarded the Premier League Player of the Season, and was awarded for his efforts with the longest contract ever given to a Man City player. FIFA 13 Rating - 85

13. Neymar (Santos)

The only non-European based player on this list, Neymar is much desired across that particular continent. Although, if he were to stay in Brazil, it is likely that he could score more goals than the legendary Pele, as in February 2012 he scored his 100th goal as a professional at the age of 20. Neymar led Santos to the Campeonato Paulista with 20 league goals, and was aptly named as the 2012 South American Footballer of the Year Award, a prestigious individual award of his excellence. Perhaps what is most intriguing facet is his desire to continue his footballing education at his beloved Santos before seeking pastures anew, and whatever club eventually garners his services in Europe will likely reap the benefits of his silky skills and imperious goalscoring. FIFA 13 Rating - 85

12. Mario Gotze (Borussia Dortmund)

Mario Gotze Perhaps the most exciting prospect in German football at the moment, Mario Gotze is a fabulous and skilful prodigy, and despite missing much of the first half of 2012 with a niggling hip injury, his return coincided with Dortmund's rise to the Bundesliga title. An attacking midfielder with a keen eye for goal, he currently has a record of a goal every two games this season, and continues to attract attention from European heavyweights. But, he still shows great commitment to his current club, and it is likely his 2013 will benefit the club constantly. FIFA 13 Rating - 84

11. Juan Mata (Chelsea)

The European Champions have a player with immense quality as there lead creative influence, as Juan Mata has the touch and composure that terrifies defences and runs the opposition into a daze. To truly understand his vitality to his club, this season he has already scored 14 goals and has 17 assists, which displays his fantastic quality at the attacking end of the pitch. Mata also joined the elites that have scored goals in the Euro Championship Final, with the last goal in a 4-0 victory over Spain. Fortunately for Chelsea fans, his talents will continue to be showcased at the Bridge until 2018, and he will continue to selflessly allow his striking teamates take the headlines while he tirelessly works to provide them with the chances they need. FIFA 13 Rating - 87
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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.