#INSERT
type:video
subtype:lead
caption:Despite being a mostly secondary option for club and country, Cesc Fabregas has the skills to lift La Roja.
END#
« Previous: No. 43 Didier Drogba | Next: No. 41 Gonzalo Higuain »
No. 42 Cesc Fabregas, Barcelona/Spain
Why he's ranked: Fabregas proved he could thrive in a role of "false nine" when he played a crucial role in Spain's Euro 2012 triumph and Vicente Del Bosque's side won the tournament without relying on a natural striker. Fleet of foot with a fine range of passing, this Barcelona star honed his skills under Arsene Wenger's guidance at Arsenal. His club future might be on the agenda again after Brazil 2014.
#INSERT
type:image
caption: Despite a difficult end to the season with Barcelona, Fabregas will be ready to go for the World Cup.
END#
Key stat: Fabregas had the second-most assists in La Liga this season with 13.
What the experts say: "Fabregas is one of those rare players who is more valuable for club than country. He has supplied key performances for Spain in their biggest matches. Cesc was the supplier of Andres Iniesta's winner in the 2010 final, and in Euro 2012's final, his willingness to adapt as a 'false nine' wreaked havoc on the Italians." - John Brewin
Other articles:
- ESPN FC Blogs: Spain
- The countdown: Our Top 50 players of the World Cup
« Previous: No. 43 Didier Drogba | Next: No. 41 Gonzalo Higuain »