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The UEFA Champions League finally saw the conclusion of its group stages last night (8 December).
This year's edition had some of the most unexpected results we have seen in a long time. The likes of Borussia Dortmund and Barcelona failed to qualify for the knockout stages after several years.
Liverpool and Bayern Munich progressed with perfect records, while holders Chelsea could only finish second in their group behind Juventus. The amount of individual talent on display this year was simply stunning.
Let's take a look at our top five players from the group stage of the UEFA Champions League.
#5. Christopher Nkunku - RB Leipzig
Christopher Nkunku has been a breath of fresh air for football fans worldwide.
The RB Leipzig winger has been in top form this season, seemingly reserving his best performances for the UEFA Champions League. The 24-year-old exceeded expectations and spearheaded Leipzig's challenge to qualify for the knockout stage.
Although Leipzig did ultimately fall short, it has to be noted that their group included the likes of Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain. Despite facing opponents of such high caliber, Nkunku still racked up seven goals and two assists in just six group games.
Nkunku is being monitored by several top European clubs and his performances of late have only pushed his stock further up.
#4. Sebastian Haller - Ajax
Sebastian Haller has been in flying form ever since he signed for Ajax in the summer.
The 27-year-old striker had a lackluster career prior to his move to Amsterdam. His big-money move to West Ham in 2019 came with lofty expectations and it is fair to say that it did not work out.
Since then, Haller has been on a mission to redeem himself. He has been excellent in the Eredivisie and the UEFA Champions League, even breaking a couple of records this year.
Haller scored in all six group stage games this year, becoming only the second-ever player to do so. He also became the fastest-ever player to score 10 UEFA Champions League goals, breaking the record previously held by Erling Haaland.
Ajax have also qualified with a perfect record and will be looking to progress as far as they can this year.
#3. Robert Lewandowski - Bayern Munich
Robert Lewandowski has been one of the world's best footballers over the past two years.
The Polish striker has hit peak form over the last couple of seasons, scoring a ridiculous number of goals across all competitions. Lewandowski spearheads the attacking line at Bayern Munich and has been integral to their success.
Lewandowski netted nine times in six group stage games this year, despite facing stiff competition in the group from the likes of Barcelona and Benfica. Lewandowski was a key member in ensuring the side topped the group with a perfect record.
After his recent snubbing at the Ballon d'Or, there is no doubt Lewandowski is out for vengeance this year.
#2. Mohamed Salah - Liverpool
Mohamed Salah has simply been unstoppable ever since the season began.
The Egyptian seems to have unlocked a higher level this year and even before the midway point, he has already registered 20 goals this season. Salah has been Liverpool's attacking lynchpin in the Premier League and has carried his form into Europe as well.
Salah scored seven goals in six Champions League group games, helping Liverpool qualify top of their group with a perfect record. In a group that was initially described as the 'group of death', Salah ensured that Liverpool made short work of their opponents and qualified for the knockouts in effortless fashion.
Salah looks well on course to hit astronomical numbers this season. Only time will tell if he can carry this form until the end of the season.
#1. Cristiano Ronaldo - Manchester United
Cristiano Ronaldo is nicknamed 'Mr. Champions League' for a reason.
The 36-year-old rejoined Manchester United earlier this year in a move that raised a number of eyebrows. Many expected Ronaldo to be well past his prime and approaching the end of his career.
Ronaldo silenced critics this year just like he has over the past several years, in style. The Portuguese racked up six goals in five UEFA Champions League appearances this season, scoring in every game he started.
His goals came when the side most required them and contributed directly to Manchester United topping their Champions League group. Ronaldo has shown that age is but a number and that he has aged like fine wine.
With the knockout stage in sight, Ronaldo will be looking to challenge for his sixth UEFA Champions League title.
