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No. 30 Paul Pogba, Juventus/France
Why he's ranked: Seemingly overnight, Pogba has matured into one of the midfield giants of European football. A towering figure at 6-foot-3, he is one of a rare few in the modern game who combine power with guile in the heat of any midfield battle. Previously with Manchester United, he has matured into a hugely impressive performer with Juventus and has been promoted from the successful French under-20 side that won the World Cup last year to play with the senior side this summer. Perhaps United wish they could have him back.
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caption: Pogba and Juventus were Serie A champions this season, but where will he fit in on the French team?
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Key stat: Pogba is one of only two midfielders in Serie A (Arturo Vidal) to rank in the top 16 in chances created and tackles this season.
What the experts say: "He is only 21 and at his age, I can't remember anyone who was capable of doing what he is doing now for club and country. He can do anything on a football pitch. He is a very special talent and that's why all the big European clubs are chasing him -- and Juventus are so desperate to keep him." - Julien Laurens
Other articles:
-- Gabriele Marcotti: Pogba proves he has what it takes
-- ESPN FC Blogs: France
- The countdown: Our Top 50 players of the World Cup
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