Ones to Watch: The most exciting player from each country at the World Cup
GROUP B
Portugal – Cristiano Ronaldo
There is a fine collection of Portuguese talent coming through at a consistent level, however the Selecao still look to Cristiano Ronaldo for that lethal difference.
In what could be his last World Cup as a superstar, Ronaldo heads into the tournament hoping Portugal can repeat the heroics of two years ago.
Though he didn’t feature properly in the Euro 2016 final because of an injury early on in the game, even his presence spurred on the remainder of the side. Ronaldo showed his impressive leadership on that occasion, often playing an equal role to the manager on the sidelines.
In a group containing minnows Morocco and Iran, the Real Madrid winger will surely look to shine.
He has already painted some incredible moments this season – not least a stunning overhead kick against Juventus – and is displaying no signs of slowing down, proving initial doubts wrong.
Despite it being a season to forget domestically for Los Blancos, Ronaldo’s chief impact came on the European stage, and his maturity and wisdom at the defining moments means Portugal can still rely on him.
Even though it might not have been as fruitful a LaLiga term as Real Madrid would have wanted, Ronaldo still had a lasting influence.
A goal every 88 minutes this season – 26 in total – is the underlining indicator of his significance to Madrid. He has similar importance at international level, and looks set to be the catalyst for Portugal and continue his acclaimed journey at the zenith of world football.
Spain – David de Gea
Manchester United goalkeeper David de Gea is one of few stoppers that is so good, they are as noticeable as quality outfield players.
Spain’s jaded World Cup in 2014 saw them crash out at the group stage, amongst the biggest shocks at that competition considering they went into it as champions.
De Gea had yet to emerge as an outstanding goalkeeper at that point, however, and is preparing for his first World Cup as an esteemed professional.
Fears that veteran Iker Casillas would never properly be replaced have been squashed by de Gea, and his best season in a Manchester United shirt sets him up well for this tournament.
Eighteen Premier League clean sheets, on top of four in the Champions League, represent magnificent statistics.
And Spain, who have Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique to shield the stopper, look one of the most resolute nations.
They will be keen to amend the heartache of 2014 and 2016, Spain’s downfall after a peaking period.
De Gea’s value to his national side should never be undermined, and his world class credentials will come under examination in Russia.
Morocco – Medhi Benatia
Morocco’s most seasoned professional, as well as the most decorated, Medhi Benatia is their stand-out name for the World Cup.
He has two Bundesliga titles and two Scudettos, showing his mature experience for the world’s best clubs.
His more prosperous years came at Bayern Munich and Juventus appearances have been hard to come by this season.
France-born Benatia started his career at Marseille, discovering his talent in the lower reaches of French football with Lorient, Tours and Clermont Foot. Benatia finally made his breakthrough and spent a year at Roma, before Bayern spotted him.
The centre half played 20 times in Serie A this term, and has found it difficult to dislodge the stalwart Chiellini-Barzagli partnership. He eventually managed to do so, and looks likely to be in Juventus’ plans next term.
For Morocco it is a different story.
The leader of the side, Medhi Benatia often provides the fundamental stability at the heart of a solid defence. He is crucial for the north Africans, and without him they would lack their stubbornness.
Against the likes of Portugal and Spain, Morocco are going to have to shore up at the back and Benatia is central to that.
Iran – Alireza Jahanbakhsh
Another nation that head into the tournament huge underdogs, it is tough to find an Iranian that could illuminate the competition.
I have picked out AZ Alkmaar man Alireza Jahanbakhsh, who I like more than the commentators will do in Russia…
The 24-year-old had a magical season in the Eredivisie, scoring 21 goals and notching 12 assists in 33 domestic games. Those statistics will encourage Iran, who need a small miracle to advance past the group stage.
They almost pulled off a shock four years ago when they held Argentina for 90 minutes, however Lionel Messi rescued the eventual finalists on that occasion.
Jahanbakhsh made his international debut five years ago. He has since managed four goals in 37 caps, and looks a surefire starter for their opener against Morocco.