1. Toni Kroos (Germany)
2014 World Cup champions, Germany will defend their title in Russia. The German midfielder, Toni Kroos is one of the best mid-fielders plying their trade in Europe.
His ability to dictate pay, move into space and take touches and occasionally score the odd belter is unparalleled.
Castrol Performance Index, the statistical analyser at the previous World Cup rated Kroos, the best player of the competition with a rating of 9.79/10.
He might not frequent the headlines, but Kroos will be vital if Germany is to retain the FIFA World Cup 2018 in Russia.