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.
NOTE: Costa withdrew from the Brazil squad on May 26 due to a thigh injury. He was replaced by Kaka, who was subsequently replaced by Ganso due to a muscle injury.
Why is Douglas Costa in the top 25?
If given just one word to describe the Bayern Munich winger, the word would be "speed." Costa is a wonder to behold up and down the field for the German champions, routinely making some of the best defenders in the world look like statues in the process. There are very few players who can cause the jaws of grown men who have witnessed thousands of games to drop to the ground, but Costa achieves it with his incredible burst. Costa's game relies on his quickness, but the Brazilian is also technically sound, possesses an excellent left foot, and uses close control well enough to flummox defenders, and can play a wealth of attacking positions.
What the experts say about Costa:
"I see him in [Arjen] Robben's position. He's just 24 and can reach Robben's level in the years to come. He's a very strong player, naturally left-footed but can play on the right, too. And he is ruthless and unstoppable when cutting in from the wings. He's on the same level as James Rodríguez." -- Shakhtar Donetsk coach Mircea Lucescu.
"He's technically-versed, a typical Brazilian. But I also have to say, he needs to be careful. Many tricks are nice, but belong in the circus." - Bayern Munich midfielder Arjen Robben.
Career highlight:
At 25, Costa helped Bayern Munich claim a domestic league/cup double in his first season with the Germans. Costa played 42 times for Bayern across all competitions, scoring seven goals and collecting 12 assists from a variety of positions.
Stat of the season:
Costa led Bayern Munich with 88 attempted take-ons in 2016, succeeding 53 percent of the time.
What next for Costa after the Copa America Centenario?
Sadly, Costa suffered a muscle injury on the eve of the tournament and won't participate in the Copa America Centenario. That means a summer of recovery and preparation for his second season with Bayern Munich under new manager Carlo Ancelotti.
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