Best Possible Football XI In The World Right Now

4. Centre Midfield: Toni Kroos

Barcelona's Lionel Messi celebrates the first goal
David-Hevia/Demotix/Corbis

Real Madrid's stunning array of attacking talent takes most of the credit for the team's success, but their virtuoso midfielders are just as vital. If it wasn't for Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, and Isco, Real just wouldn't be the ruthless attacking force that they are today, with the German proving himself particularly important to the club's current playing style.

Kroos is the archetypal modern midfielder. Renowned for his passing, creativity, and technique, he set up an impressive 13 goals for his side last season, and scored four himself. He's one of the first names on Real's teamsheet, with his dynamic, hard-working style of play helping him stand out amongst his more celebrate team-mates, and while he usually operates as a playmaker, the German is just as adept in a more defensive role.

It's tough to choose between Kroos and Modric, but Toni just beats his Croatian counterpart on current form. No Real player amassed more minutes on the pitch than him last season, outlining his importance to Europe's strongest side. Kroos comes with no baggage, and no obvious weaknesses. There's not a team in the world that wouldn't love to have him.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.