Serie A 2017/18: The best XI of the season

Strikers: Ciro Immobile (Lazio), Mauro Icardi (Inter Milan)

Immobile was in the form of his life

A perennial journeyman, Immobile finally found his footing at Lazio after several failed loan spells across Italy, Spain and Germany. If his 23 goals in the league last season was impressive, how would you define his career-best return of 29 goals this time around?

The Italian was in the form of his life, spearheading the most potent attacking vanguard of Serie A and tearing every defense asunder on his way to his second Capocannoniere prize. He assisted another nine goals, making him the player with the most goal involvement in the league.

His form may have tapered off a bit in the final few games, but the fact that he alone accounted for almost 30% of the 72 points they accrued, despite missing five games, serves a testament to his growing importance in the team.

Icardi enjoyed his best season with Inter so far

Finishing jointly on 29 goals is Inter’s Icardi, their get out of jail free card for the past few seasons. The Argentine too registered his best goal returns in Serie A, and like his Lazio counterpart, bagged his second domestic Golden Boot.

He may not be involved creatively in the attack, but he’s certainly among the best finishers in the world.

He thrives when serviced and is almost always found in the right position inside the area. Icardi eclipses his lack of movement outside the box with terrific work rate and by drifting out wide to create space for his teammates to run into.

Inter Milan secured a Champions League return by finishing fourth, and Icardi’s role behind it cannot be overstated. He’d be a delight to watch going against some of the best defenses in Europe.s