UEFA Champions League 2018-19, Borussia Dortmund vs Atletico Madrid: Combined XI

Defensive midfielder: Rodri

Rodri is the binding gel of this Atletico team

Barely two months since returning to his parent club from Villarreal, Rodri has already become so crucial to his side. He's like the Casemiro of Atletico, bringing such balance to the team. And without him, the Colchoneros simply lose that equilibrium. Get this: they have conceded five goals without him on the field, and it was only after his introduction at half-time in the previous game that they were able to find rhythm and score a goal against Villarreal. He needs to start if Atletico were to dismantle Dortmund's cohesive attacking unit.

Right attacking winger: Jadon Sancho

Sancho: England's next big thing?

Paco Alcacer isn't the only one turning heads at Dortmund, for an 18-year old Jadon Sancho too has impressed mightily and showed Manchester City what a gem they have let go. With six assists in seven games, he's currently the most prolific provider in the Bundesliga, and has also netted twice.

Sancho's versatility has enabled Favre to play him on either flank to almost equal success, whereas his impressive showings also earned him his first senior call-ups for England by Gareth Southgate.

Central attacking midfielder: Marco Reus

Reus continues to be Dortmund's talisman

Players have come and gone, but Marco Reus has stuck around and now he's been promoted as the club captain. The 29-year-old seems to be thriving in his added responsibility with five goals and three assists in the league to make a fine start to the new season. He has a goal and an assist in the Champions League too. His partnership with Alcacer has heralded a new attacking combo and together, are setting Dortmund's campaign alight.

Left attacking winger: Koke

Koke has successfully acclimatised to life as a winger

Koke has taken to new responsibilities on the wing quite smoothly, and that's some saying given the number of players who struggled to adapt to Simeone's change of style. Despite moving away from his preferred central midfield, there hasn't been a depreciation in his performance.

He got Atletico's season off to a flyer with his determined and selfless display in the 4-2 Supercup win over Real Madrid, while critics have praised his incomprehensible work-rate. He runs, runs and just runs, covering every blade of grass and also ensuring Atletico don't miss a beat. To top it up, Koke also has a goal and an assist in the Champions League.