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La Liga: 2016-17 Team of the Season: Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico dominate

By Roy Emanuel

MALAGA, SPAIN - MAY 21: Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid celebrates after his side are crowned champions following the La Liga match between Malaga and Real Madrid at La Rosaleda Stadium on May 21, 2017 in Malaga, Spain. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)
MALAGA, SPAIN - MAY 21: Cristiano Ronaldo of Real Madrid celebrates after his side are crowned champions following the La Liga match between Malaga and Real Madrid at La Rosaleda Stadium on May 21, 2017 in Malaga, Spain. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images) /
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SEVILLE, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 18: Steven N’Zonzi of Sevilla FC looks on during the La Liga match between Sevilla FC and SD Eibar at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on February 18, 2017 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde Colomer/Getty Images)
SEVILLE, SPAIN – FEBRUARY 18: Steven N’Zonzi of Sevilla FC looks on during the La Liga match between Sevilla FC and SD Eibar at Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on February 18, 2017 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde Colomer/Getty Images) /

MF – Steven N’Zonzi – Sevilla FC

One of the most impressive stories of the 2016-17 La Liga season was the form and passion of Sevilla, as an off-season full of change resulted in a squad that often punched above their weight. One of the key components to the club’s success was Steven N’Zonzi.

The French international was one of the best defensive midfielders in Europe, and allowed attacking players the freedom to play higher up the pitch thanks to his positioning and outstanding stamina. The former Stoke City man scored two goals and added three assists in league play.

Manager Jorge Sampaoli’s system focuses on a relentless approach in the final third, aiming to overwhelm the competition with pace and quick passing. But in order for this to be truly effective, there must be proper coverage at the back. It is in this area that N’Zonzi ended up being a true star in the line-up.

His success in Spain took time, with a need to adapt to a new country and a new league. But with Los Nervionenses, N’Zonzi has found a style that suits his skill set. Sampaoli is returning to South America to take over his native Argentina, but the midfielder should still be able to continue his evolution with Sevilla’s next boss.

Steven N’Zonzi has always had the ability. Size, strength and technical skills make up a player that can be extremely influential. And now at the Estadio Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan, he will look to build off a wonderful 2016-17 campaign.

Honourable mention: Pablo Piatti – RCD Espanyol

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