Top 5 Brazilian players this season
Brazil has always exported some of the best talents to the European continent throughout football history. From Zico, Romário and Roberto Carlos, to Ronaldinho, Neymar and Marcelo, Brazilians have so often enjoyed successful spells in Europe. And present times are no different.
In a season where the 5-time world champions pursue their preparations for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Brazilians continue to impress in Europe's top 5 leagues. Goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders and even attackers, the Seleção is well-served in all departments in terms of quality and depth.
So, who are the 5 Brazilians who have been performing at the highest level during campaign? Without further ado, let's have a look
#5 Alisson Becker (AS Roma):
While all eyes of the international press are on Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson, another rising Brazilian talent is consistantly perfroming week in week out for Serie A side AS Roma.
The English Premier League has the biggest media coverage, which is perhaps why not many are aware of the brilliant campaign that Alisson is having. As a matter of fact, the 25-year old has already kept 14 clean sheets across all competitions this season, which gives him the edge over countryman Ederson Moraes, with 12.
In addition to that, Alisson is considered the first choice under Brazil boss Tite, and it does not seem that the situation is likely to change in Russia. The shot-stopper has been brilliant for both club and country, and has rightly cemented his starting spot.
What makes Alisson special is that besides his quick reflexes, positioning and handling, his footwork is pretty good on the ball. He has the quality to receive the ball under pressure and play an intelligent pass, instead of brainlessly clearing it away.
Becker has been impressive ever since his days with Internacional in Brazil. 1994 World Cup hero, Claudio Taffarel, touted the Gaucho to be the next great Brazilian goalkeeper.