World Cup 2018: Top 10 players who could win the Golden Ball

#8 Toni Kroos

Germany's star

While Lionel Messi might have won the Golden Ball in the last World Cup, many argued that it was Toni Kroos who was more deserving than the Argentine. After all, he was the best player of the team that won the World Cup – and perhaps of the whole tournament in general.

His form might have taken a slight hit in the last few months but one can never count out Toni Kroos when he plays for Germany. Like he is for Madrid, Kroos is the fulcrum of Die Mannschaft's system.

For Real Madrid this season, he made 7 assists and scored 5 goals from 27 games in the league while playing in front of the defense, so not bad, eh?

While the German team might not have an individual superstar, a lot relies on Kroos’ shoulders as they aspire to defend their title.