Ten Players To Watch In 2009
Posted by Anonymous
In 2008 there were notable performances such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Fernando Torres, Emmanuel Adebayor, and David Villa (among others). So at the beginning of 2009 I wanted to pick 10 players who I thought would be top performers in the coming year. I tried to stay away from established players like Messi, Ronaldo, Kaka etc. so here they are:
Andrei Arshavin (Zenit Saint Petersburg)
The versatile Russian lead Zenit Saint Petersburg to a Uefa Cup win and stared in Russia's Euro tournament in 2008. Look for Arshavin to join a top team early in 2009 and then showcase his skills. His favored position is as a second striker but he can play in an attacking midfield or wing role.
Abou Diaby (Arsenal)
The 22 year old french player has been compared to Patrick Viera for the better part of his career. With Fabregas out for most of the remainder of the season, it opens up a opportunity for Diaby who has undeniable skill.
Rafael (Manchester United)
Having already impressed in previous performances this season, the 18 year old Brazilian is sure to play an important role for Man United in the coming year. His attacking runs down the flanks are dangerous and he has shown a level head in his defensive game.
Robinho (Manchester City)
Moments of brilliance have given city fans goosebumps but the Brazilian ace is still getting used to the English game and I think he has much more to give. With potential signings coming to bolster his backup he is sure to impress.
Sergio Leonel Aguero (Athletico Madrid)
With three years experience in La Liga now, Aguero has improved every year and this one will be no different. The 20 year old Argentine is key to Athletico's La Liga and Champions League title hopes.
Klass Jan Huntelaar (Real Madrid)
The former Ajax striker couldn't stop scoring in the Dutch league but now that he is in La Liga, he definitely has something to prove. The 25 year old has speed, strength, and dynamism and has been frequently compared to Ruud van Nistelrooy.
Yuri Zhirkov (CSKA Moscow)
The "Russian Ronaldinho" is what he has been called. You might remember him for his tearing runs up the wing for Russia in Euro. Zhirkov is rumored to be Scolari's target for Chelsea's next signing and I for one will look forward to seeing him in the Premier league.
Gabriel Agbonlahor (Aston Villa)
The English International has pace in abundance and has put it to use for Aston Villa. He is the striker to watch this season in the Premier League and I believe he can end the season with over twenty goals.
David Silva (Valencia)
With David Villa rumored to be leaving for a different club it falls to Silva to take up the mantel. He is just back from a long injury and has to prove that his impressive Euro performance wasn't a fluke.
Karim Benzema (Lyon)
Yet another striker rumored to be moving in January, Benzema has accomplished all he can in Ligue 1. A disappointing Euro put doubts in his supporter's minds so he will have to perform well in whatever team he ends up in.
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