Welcome to #EuroRank, a weeklong look at the top 25 players we expect to see at the European Championship. Over 50 ESPN FC experts and writers from across the globe voted, and we're rolling out the results right up to opening day, when France plays Romania on June 10.
Why is Gareth Bale in the top 25?
He is the leading reason why Wales are at their first major finals since the 1958 World Cup, his nation's one true star, blessed with thrilling talent but willing to dedicate himself to the cause. The €100 million transfer fee that Real Madrid paid Tottenham Hotspur for his service in 2013 remains a world record but, beyond the topknot hairstyle, there is very little that is Hollywood about Bale. He is a quiet and unassuming character who repeatedly proves himself a team man for club and country, playing off either wing or centrally. His seven goals in Wales' qualifying campaign guided the Dragons to France.
What the experts say about Bale:
"He was either going to be the best left-back in the world or the best winger in the world. We moved him further forward and he just had everything. He is 6 feet tall and has got the most amazing physique, talent and strength." -- Former Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp, September 2015.
"It is not just his ability, which is undoubted and fantastic, incredible ability he has got, but it is his mentality to go with that and that is what makes him the complete package. He comes in, does his work, doesn't ask for anything and he is just top quality." -- Wales manager Chris Coleman, May 2016.
Career highlight:
After a quiet struggle for prominence in his first season at Real Madrid, it was Bale's goal that put his team 2-1 up in extra time against Atletico in the 2014 Champions League final.
Stat of the season:
His 19 goals in 23 La Liga matches in 2015-16 was his best scoring haul in the fewest amount of games he has played in his three seasons as a Real Madrid player
What next for Bale after Euro 2016?
Speculation over a return to English football has surrounded Bale since he moved to Spain, and Manchester United have made multiple plays for him. His future at Real, however, may be tied up with what happens to Cristiano Ronaldo.
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