Europe’s Midfield magicians (Part 1) - Season 2012/13

DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in this article are solely the author’s and not necessarily those of SportsKeeda

The first part of my review on some of the best midfielders this season so far. Other than the usual superstars, I have also tried to focus attention on the relatively underrated yet highly talented midfielders who have sparkled this season. Please feel free to hit me back with your suggestions, comments, rants and invaluable feedback! Read on…

?lkay Gündo?an (Borussia Dortmund and Germany)

Occupying a deep-lying play maker role for Dortmund, ?lkay has been the nerve of the Borussia midfield of late. Dortmund were unable to win any of the 6 matches in which the German international was missing from the starting line up this season which goes to show his importance.

Szablocs Huszti (Hannover 96 and Hungary)

The Hungarian left winger has already scored 7 times and has 8 assists to his name this season for Hannover 96. He announced his return to Hannover by providing 4 assists against Wolfsburg in his first match. A terrific left foot and his ability to play wide as well as an attacker displays his versatility. Certainly one of the most prominent yet underrated midfielders of the Bundesliga.

Marek Hamšík (SSC Napoli and Slovakia)

Hamsik , Cavani & Lavezzi formed a destructive attacking trio last season for Napoli. After the departure of Lavezzi to Paris St German in August, the onus has fallen on Marek Hamsik to deliver. And he has. With 9 goals and the most assists for ‘The Partenopei’, the young Slovakian has proven himself to be one of Europe’s top attacking midfielders.

Juan Manuel Mata García (Chelsea FC and Spain)

Already likened to the legendary Gianfranco Zola by the Chelsea faithful, Mata has been consistently proving himself to be the quintessential no 10 play maker. An amazing CAM , he has already scored 16 times for the Blues this season and provided 20 assists. Even with the likes of Eden Hazard, Oscar and Frank Lampard playing alongside him, Juan Mata dictates Chelsea’s game and produces crucial goals for the team. With his national team career taking full flight, he can only get better.

Santiago Cazorla González (Arsenal FC and Spain)

Short, speedy, technically gifted and with an eye for goal, Cazorla is probably Arsenal FC’s best signing this season. After making his mark with Villareal and Malaga in La Liga, Santi has quickly familiarized himself with the pace and physicality of the Premiership resulting in 9 goals and 8 assists for the Gunners this season. His ability to play as an attacking midfielder and a winger on either flank makes him one of Europe’s current top footballers.

Georgino Wijnaldum (PSV Eindhoven and Netherlands)

A relatively unknown yet highly talented youngster who currently has the top assists for PSV in the Dutch Eredivisie. A central play maker, Georgino has so far scored 17 goals this season. A product of Feyenoord’s youth system, Georgino promptly scored in his debut as a substitute for the Netherlands senior team. He has steadily established himself as the no 10 play maker for Eindhoven.

Andrés Iniesta (FC Barcelona and Spain)

One of La Masia’s best products, Iniesta is currently among the top 3 players in the world. Ranked as UEFA’s best player in 2012 and Best Euro Player of the tournament in 2012, his accolades speak for himself. One of the best central midfielders in this generation, his calm demeanour and tireless work rate on the pitch add to Barcelona’s brilliant game play. This season he vanquished Levante by scoring a goal and creating the other 3 leading to a 4-0 victory for the Catalans. Expect a lot more from him this season in the Champions League and La Liga.

Dimitri Payet (Lille OSC and France)

Donning the number 7 jersey for ‘The Mastiffs’, Payet has 10 assists (top in Ligue 1 this season so far) and 7 goals to his name. Primarily an attacking midfielder, he also plays on the wings for Lille. His dribbling skills and pace during his Saint Etienne days earned him a call from Laurent Blanc for the French national team in 2010.

Andrea Pirlo (Juventus and Italy)

Since his move from the Rossoneri to Turin, Pirlo has continued to produce beautiful football to the delight of the Bianconeri. His long range passes to set up goal scoring opportunities have helped The Old Lady remain firmly on top of the Serie A. Along with Iniesta, he won a hattrick of Man of The Match performances in the Euros having helped Italy reach the finals. As a deep-laying play maker, Pirlo has influenced the Juventus game play most notably as a set piece specialist. Easily the oldest among this list, he is a true legend for both club and country.