European Team of the Season 2018-19: Picking the best XI from across the continent

Frenkie de Jong (Ajax)

Willem II v Ajax - Dutch Toto KNVB Cup Final

Frenkie de Jong is one of the hottest prospects to emerge out of Ajax's famed academy this season and it is no surprise to see La Liga champions Barcelona swoop up for the Dutchman to join them next season.

The 22-year-old's defensive diligence together with his comfort and vision on the ball has earned him deserved praise from fans and pundits alike. The midfielder's exploits played a pivotal role in Ajax's journey to the Eredivisie title as well as the KNVB Cup and also hogged the spotlight in the UEFA Champions League.

The Dutch giants won hearts across the globe for playing what critics have deemed to be a true brand of total football. The side defeated European titans like Real Madrid and Juventus on their way to the semi-finals of the competition but were unfortunately defeated by Tottenham Hotspur in the second leg of the fixture, despite having an advantage from the opening leg.

Honorable mention: Manchester City's Fernandinho

Eden Hazard (Chelsea)

Leicester City v Chelsea FC - Premier League

Eden Hazard has managed to reach immense heights in a season full of turbulence for Chelsea. This is hardly any surprise for a man who has played a pivotal role in Chelsea's major titles, including their two Premier League trophies since his move from Lille in 2012.

This season, the 28-year-old contributed to an impressive 31 goals for the Blues, thereby becoming the first player since Arsenal legend Thierry Henry to secure 15+ goals and 15+ assists in a single Premier League season.

Hazard's exploits this term have earned him the Premier League Playmaker of the Season award as well as a fourth Chelsea Player of the Year trophy.

Despite the Blues' torrid season, the Belgium international managed to help the side to a top-four finish in the English top flight and could even guide them to a trophy when they face London rivals Arsenal in the Europa League final.

Honorable mentions: Ajax's Dusan Tadic and Sporting's Bruno Fernandes