Real Madrid vs Atletico Madrid - Combined XI

Midfield

Gabi – Toni Kroos – Koke

Given the abundance of quality central midfielders on both sides, arguably the toughest decision is the choice of who plays in central midfield. The first of the three central midfielders in Atletico's club captain Gabi. The Spaniard has been a revelation ever since he came back to the club in 2011 and has made the defensive midfield role his own. His reading of the game and timing of his tackles and interceptions are simply sublime and you can certainly see why the fans love him.

Taking his place alongside Gabi, is Real Madrid's new signing Toni Kroos. The German midfielder signed from Bayern Munich in the summer already has two assists to his name and only just pips Luka Modric who had a fantastic season last time around. Although Kroos' performances in Brazil caught the eye, it was merely an extension of what he had been doing over the past couple of seasons for Bayern.

Koke

If there is one player that Atletico Madrid wanted to keep hold of more than anyone else, it was Koke. The Spaniard was in sublime form last season and had all the makings of a world-class midfielder. Although played predominantly on the left, Koke is just as home in the centre of the park and his ability to create goal scoring opportunities for his team-mates and keep the ball moving is one of his biggest strengths. And that is precisely why he takes the last and final place in this tightly contested midfield.