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#2 Sadio Mane
The Senegalese striker is another player who has been the reason behind Liverpool rise this season – he has already scored 4 goals in 11 appearances this season. Mane was instrumental in Liverpool’s run in the Champions League last season, scoring 10 goals in the tournament and 20 goals in all competitions in total. However, Mane did not win any silverware last season.
The Senegalese looks determined to change all that this season and has been asked to carry additional responsibilities at Anfield as Salah is experiencing second season syndromes now. Yet, even with all his qualities and abilities on the field, it is hard to justify Mane’s inclusion in the Ballon d’Or shortlist.
Player who missed out: Paulo Dybala
It is true that the Argentinean had a forgettable 2018 FIFA World Cup, but he was phenomenal last season, scoring 26 goals in all competitions and winning the Serie A and the Coppa Italia with Juventus. He has also scored 4 goals from 8 games so far this season, yet cruelly misses out from the shortlist.
