Top 10 footballers of 2017 according to The Guardian

#9 Toni Kroos

Toni Kroos has been a vital player for Real Madrid

Rank in 2016: 21

The German can sure pass it around and averages close to 90% when it comes to passing accuracy. His vision and passing abilities are unparalleled and he is equally brilliant in dead-ball situations. He moved up twelve places in The Guardian's list after being ranked 21st last year.

Playing on the left in a three-man midfield, the midfielder was at his imperious best, as usual, orchestrating Real Madrid's impressive attacking style of play from the middle. IFFHS Best Playmaker Silver award of 2017 is a testament to his contribution in the Los Merengues' five-trophy haul. Also, he finished second in the assists charts of La Liga last season.