Fernandinho - Manchester City
Kevin De Bruyne, David Silva and Sergio Aguero are known for hogging all the headlines. Why shouldn't they? There is nothing this Manchester City squad lacks. From the question of depth to the doubts over consistency and solidity, Pep Guardiola's troops have rhetorically shut down all possible doors of denunciation.
A lot of theories and analysis has been developed over the past 15 months or so, aiming to decode the philosophy that is turning this club into a European powerhouse. One of the key factors that contribute to their pace of play and freedom to express is the presence of Fernandinho in midfield.
His service often goes unobserved. But it is he who watches the counter-attacking possibilities of the opposition and in turn, thwarts away any such jeopardy. Apart from his awareness and ability to intercept and block passes, the Brazilian is sharp and astute at tackling.
He is also a player who can play as many as six-seven matches in a month and continue at the same intensity every week. Offensively too, he takes a shot per game on an average and builds attacks. The 33-year-old is also capable of picking the right pass.
Fernandinho's long-range rockets need no further description either. Undoubtedly, he is Manchester City's most valuable player.