Most valuable XI eliminated from the 2020-21 UEFA Champions League

Bhargav
Manchester United v Southampton FC - Premier League
Manchester United v Southampton FC - Premier League

Central Defensive Midfielder: Eduardo Camavinga (Rennes) - €50 million

Eduardo Camavinga
Eduardo Camavinga

Eduardo Camavinga, who is touted as a generational talent and plies his trade for Ligue 1 club Rennes, made his Champions League debut this season.

The Angola-born French midfielder belied his young years and played a key role to ensure Rennes' qualification for the Champions League last campaign.

Despite Camavinga providing glimpses of his tactical intelligence and versatility - the player produced a lone assist in four games - Rennes lost five times in six matches to finish fourth in their 2020-21 Champions League group.

Nevertheless, the second-youngest goalscorer for France, who is one of the most valuable teenagers in world football, will be one to watch out for as a bevy of clubs are reportedly interested in his services.


Central defensive midfielder: Paul Pogba (Manchester United) - €80 million

Paul Pogba
Paul Pogba

Despite Paul Pogba featuring in central midfield for his club and country, the Frenchman is one of two defensive midfielders in this hypothetical XI.

Nevertheless, the 2018 FIFA World Cup winner had an underwhelming campaign in the Champions League this season as his club exited the competition in the group stage.

Since his arrival from Juventus four years ago, Pogba has largely been a pale shadow of his illustrious self and has struggled to impress under various managers at the club.

The Frenchman has been particularly poor in the Champions League for Manchester United, scoring just two times in 19 appearances, with Bruno Fernandes having to shoulder the bulk of the creative burden in midfield.

If reports are to be believed, Pogba might have played his final Champions League game for the Old Trafford club.


Right Midfield - Achraf Hakimi (Inter Milan) - €50 million

Achraf Hakimi
Achraf Hakimi

Achraf Hakimi, who also operates as a right-back, has had an underwhelming start to life at Inter Milan since his arrival at the club this summer.

The Moroccan player, who dazzled at Borussia Dortmund, has produced three goals and as many assists in Serie A but has failed to set the stage alight with his performances in the Champions League.

Hakimi was at fault for one goal and scored at the wrong end in Inter Milan's 0-2 home defeat to section winners Real Madrid on Matchday 4, a result that contributed towards the Nerazzurri's exit from the Champions League this season.


Central Midfield: Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) - €80 million

Bruno Fernandes
Bruno Fernandes

Bruno Fernandes is arguably the finest Portuguese player in the Premier League at the moment.

Since arriving at Manchester United in January this year, the 26-year-old midfielder has averaged almost a goal contribution per game (35 in 36 games, with 22 goals and 13 assists).

After almost singlehandedly helping the club to a creditable third place in the Premier League last season, Bruno Fernandes has started the season in blistering form.

However, despite his four goals and an assist in six Champions League games, Manchester United endured a group-stage exit after defeats against Istanbul Basaksehir, Paris St. Germain and Leipzig.

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Edited by Rachel Syiemlieh
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