66. Arjen Robben

A career blighted by injuries and corresponding ‘what if’s, Robben’s 2016 wasn't much different to the narrative of recent years: unplayable when fit, yet unfit for long periods.

When Robben made his return to PSV with Bayern in October, he departed to a standing ovation and reminded everyone in his homeland that we’ve yet to see a Dutch footballer as skilled since his emergence. Even at 32, the winger’s every stride hinging on hamstrings that have seen much wear and tear, Robben has the ability to be the best player in a Bayern side that is hardly lacking in quality.

Yes, it’s possible that if he wasn't as fragile, he could have established himself as a threat to the Messi-Ronaldo duopoly. But for him to be as prolific and influential as he is when fit and firing – for club and country – shows the mark of a man who should go down in history as one of the very best footballers of this generation. – PR

65. Julian Weigl

When watching him in action, it can be difficult to believe that Weigl is still only 21. Borussia Dortmund’s midfield metronome plays with a maturity and intelligence that belies his tender years, with the former 1860 Munich man having established himself as one of his side’s most valuable components in the last 12 months.

A fine passer of the ball, Weigl is the player who sets the tempo for Dortmund in his deep-lying role in the engine room. He’s also a key contributor in the defensive phase of the game, regularly winning possession back for BVB with tackles and interceptions that invariably come about as a result of his astute positional play.

Weigl’s reward for a superb debut year at Signal Iduna Park was a place in Germany’s Euro 2016 squad, and while he was an unused substitute in each of the world champions’ six encounters in France, there’s little doubt that he’ll be a national team regular for years to come. – GL

64. Marek Hamsik

Where once there was Diego Maradona in Naples, there's now Hamsik. The Slovakian midfielder may not be capable of the same magical feats as the iconic Argentine, but his loyalty and consistency are quickly ensuring him a similar place in the hearts of Napoli supporters.

The southern Italian club have seen Edinson Cavani and Gonzalo Higuain leave the Stadio San Paolo in recent years, but their mohawked captain remains – and they love him for it. Yet this isn't blind faith: Hamsik is routinely a match-winner for Maurizio Sarri’s men, as his 2015/16 tally of eight goals and 11 assists highlights.

Meanwhile, Slovakia's Euro 2016 may have ended in the last 16 but Hamsik was their best player, and proved it with a stonking winner against Russia. – AD

Next: Class act for a decade