Nominee #5: Gareth Bale
Gareth Bale, the world’s costliest player has bounced back after a below-par 2014-15 season for Real Madrid. The Welshman occupied the centre-stage this season as he outplayed Cristiano in most of the matches.
Though he missed a majority of the matches this season due to injuries, Bale showed what he is capable of when he if fully fit. Both Rafa Benitez and Zinedine Zidane used the 26-year-old wisely as they allowed him to play in a more central position when compared to the last season.
He also stood up for the team whenever needed and gave hopes to the fans regarding the future of the club after Cristiano Ronaldo’s time at his peak runs out. He scored 19 goals assisted 10 in 21 La Liga matches and was Real Madrid’s best player in the semi-finals and finals of 2016 Champions League.
After a promising season, Bale will look for more success with the club in the net season.