Football
Jason Davis, U.S. soccer writer 8y

Javier Mascherano, MF/DF, Barcelona & Argentina: #CopaRank: No. 9

Welcome to #CopaRank, a weeklong look at the top 25 players we expect to see at the Copa America Centenario. Over 50 ESPN FC experts and writers from around the globe voted, and we're rolling out the results right up to opening day, U.S. vs. Colombia, on Friday.

Why is Javier Mascherano in the top 25?

A fixture for both Barcelona and Argentina, Mascherano is one of the top defensive players in the world. His understanding of the game borders on perfection, and typical praise for his game centers around his ability to disrupt the opposition's attacks and his excellent passing. The two go hand-in-hand, especially at Barcelona, where Mascherano's presence behind the attacking core of the Blaugrana serves as a platform for their devastating movements toward the opposing goal. Mascherano's experience and understanding of the game make him an obvious leader for both club and country, and his tackling is among the best in the world.

What the experts say about Mascherano:

"Mascherano. He has a spectacular view of football. Whenever I talk to him, he tells me something new; he notices things you don't. He really understands the game." - Barcelona teammate Dani Alves.

"I would never, ever sell him and I wouldn't swap him for anyone." -- Former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola.

Career highlight:

Too many to name, though Mascherano's role in the all-time great Barcelona teams of recent years demands recognition. After moving from Liverpool as a defensive midfielder, Mascherano transformed himself into a world class defender on what might be the greatest team anyone has ever seen.

Stat of the season:

Mascherano led Barcelona players in interception in league play, averaging 2.2 per game.

What next for Mascherano after the Copa America Centenario?

Word is that after six seasons with Barcelona, the Argentine defender is headed to Italian giants Juventus. The player himself is not addressing the rumors, and any resolution may have to wait until after Copa America.


« Previous: Gonzalo Higuain | Next: No. 8, Douglas Costa »

^ Back to Top ^