Nominee #1: Casemiro
Real Madrid has been longing for a good central midfielder for a while and this season, they have found the right man for that role. Brazilian midfielder Casemiro has given Real Madrid a new lease of life since coming back to the Bernabeu from Porto.
After winning Rafa Benitez’s trust, Casemiro became a regular starter in the squad and has performed consistently. In the big matches, he stood up to the occasion and did the job for his team. After a fantastic Madrid derby early on in the season, Casemiro was benched for the El Clasico in favour of a more attacking option in James Rodriguez as per the club President’s orders and Real Madrid went on to lose 4-0, the match that started Rafa Benitez's downfall.
Zidane took over and he made full use of the midfielder as Casemiro impressed everyone with his performance every match. In the second El Clasico of the season, Casemiro kept Leo Messi, Andres Iniesta and Neymar at bay and he became a favourite among the Bernabeu faithful.
He is calm and has the composure that is needed in a big match. With age on his side, Casemiro might become one of the best in the business given the potential he holds.
