#4 Asier Illaramendi
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Real Sociedad had another impressive campaign in the 2016/17 season. Having finished an impressive 6th La Real will be playing in the Europa League next season. While the team as a whole has performed well, the star of the show is undoubtedly former Real Madrid star Asier Illaramendi.
The 27-year-old midfielder has really matured this season and his performances this season have shown time and again that he is one of the best (If not the best) defensive midfielders in world football at the moment. Illaramendi has been rewarded for his good performances throughout the season with a call-up to the Spain national squad.
Illaramendi is known for his reading of the game, positioning skills and interceptions. Over the course of this season, his passing range has also increased tremendously and the Basque-born midfielder plays a vital role in both defence and attack for his side.
The former Madrid player’s consistency can be seen from the fact that he has won an impressive 6 man of the match awards this season.