The FIFA Confederations Cup kicks off this weekend. The tournament that will see the champions of each confederations tournament – including the World Cup and the host nation – battle for the title begins on Saturday.
The likes of Portugal, Mexico, Chile, and Germany will take part alongside Australia, New Zealand, Cameroon, and Russia. Eight teams split into two group will compete for the coveted crown.
Several talented players will be on show in Russia. Here are the top 5 stars to watch.
5. Leroy Sane / Tim Cahill
These two players, on the opposite end of the age spectrum, are both tied in fifth. Leroy Sane will spearhead Germany’s new-look attack in the absence of their biggest players.
The 21-year-old enjoyed an excellent debut season in the Premier League, becoming one of Man City’s best attackers under Pep Guardiola.
Cahill, old but gold, is 37 but still going strong. Although he is more of an impact sub for both Melbourne City and the national side, he is the Socceroos’ record goalscorer and can still score wonder goals every now and then.
4. Chicharito
Javier Hernandez is an underrated attacker. His smart runs and ability to read the game well makes him a deadly poacher.
He will be Mexico’s main striker. Despite disappointing in the 1-1 draw with USA, the Bayer Leverkusen ace, Javier Hernandez is still their best shot at shocking the tournament’s favorites and winning title.
3. Arturo Vidal
If Vidal is still raging at Bayern Munich’s controversial Champions League exit at the hands of eventual winners Real Madrid, winning the Confederations Cup will help him forget. The Chilean midfielder heads into this competition on the back of another Bundesliga-winning season.
The former Juventus ace is one of two Chile players to make this list, as their exciting squad reunites to conquer another competition.
2. Alexis Sanchez
Winning the FA Cup, single-handedly guiding Arsenal to victories, and scoring and assisting for fun – Alexis Sanchez put in stellar displays during his club’s disappointing season.
Now, the Gunners are fighting to avoid losing him to Bayern Munich, or worse, Man City or Chelsea. Alexis would have been number one if it wasn’t for the next player on our list.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo
Many thought Cristiano was finished this season. He then went on to score five past Bayern e route to winning the Champions League.
The Portugal captain also won La Liga, and is now favorite to win the Ballon d’Or. Win the Confederations Cup, and the race for the Best Player award will be over.
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