FIFA World Cup 2018: South American combined XI

Midfield

Casemiro has played a vital role in Real Madrid's success in recent times

Anchoring the midfield is a player who has established himself as an almost certain starter for Real Madrid - Casemiro.

The former Sao Paulo player experienced a revolution in his career after spending a year on loan at F.C Porto in the 2014/15 season. and since then, he hasn´t looked back.

Casemiro is tasked with a lot of the dirty work in front of the defence, but he has shown he is more than capable with the ball at his feet too.

The 26-year-old has seven goals and three assists this year, which is an admirable return for a player who is not afforded the freedom of those ahead of him.

Coutinho is settling well at Barcelona

In the Summer of 2013, then Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers bought Philippe Coutinho from Internazionale for just under €8.5m.

Fast forward five years and the Brazilian playmaker is starting to settle into life at F.C Barcelona after transferring for a fee worth up to €160m.

On one hand, we can see that as a reminder of how chaotic the transfer market has become; on the other hand, it shows much clubs are willing to do to sign a player of Coutinho's quality.

17 goals and 15 assists this season for both Liverpool and Barcelona is an excellent return, and although he may be played more in an offensive wide position, Coutinho is also extremely effective through the middle.

Dybala is growing from strength to strength at Juventus

Paulo Dybala is versatile enough to on either wing or as a central striker, but in this team, he will play slightly ahead of the of Coutinho in central midfield.

Dybala has a serious eye for goal, as 21 goals in 30 Seria A games this season will attest to, but his return of seven assists this season does not do his playmaking ability justice.

The Argentinian's pace and exceptional passing make him a constant threat going forward, and at 24 years old, he can only get better.

Substitutes - Fernandinho, Paulinho, Alejandro Gómez