It’s credit to the strength and depth of talent that’s in
City’s squad that they could almost field a full starting line up of
internationals who have been called up for their respective countries for the 2014
World Cup in Brazil. A trio have been included in the Argentina squad: defender
Pablo Zabaleta, defender Martin Demichelis and striker Sergio Aguero. A duo for
England: goalkeeper Joe Hart and midfielder (not defender) James Milner. Bosnian striker Edin Dzeko and midfielder
David Silva for Spain both also get the nod. Defender Vincent Kompany, Ivorian Coast
powerhouse Yaya Toure and Brazilian Fernandinho also feature in their countries
squads.
It’s a commendable mass of talent who will all be competing
in the World Cup off the back of a double trophy-winning season, but there are
notable omissions. Samir Nasri’s absence for France caused uproar, particularly
after the impressive season the midfielder’s had. Instead he’s enjoying a
summer in Los Angeles with his girlfriend (he
doesn’t look too upset!). Both Jesus Navas and Alvaro Negredo were named in
the preliminary squad for Spain, but failed to make it onto the plane.
But out of the 10 Blues heading to South America, who are
the top five to look out for during the tournament? With the bar set so high,
it was difficult to narrow it down to just five, but these are the players I
think will have the biggest say for their countries on the biggest stage of
them all. I originally included England goalkeeper Joe Hart, but opted to go
for players who’d feature for countries we’d most likely see progress the
furthest in the competition. Ouch…
Yaya Toure - IVORY COAST
The Ivory Coast international couldn’t be going into the
World Cup in finer form. 31 year old Toure is on the top of his game, having ended
the season third best goal-scorer in the Premier League with 20 goals, a mighty
haul from midfield. Capable of producing those something out of nothing
match-winning moments, Yaya’s unique blend of strength, power and ability often
results in incredulous goals and commendable assists. An international veteran
of sorts, having played for the Elephants for 10 years and played in five
Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, this will be the third World Cup for the
midfielder. Expect the unexpected when it comes to Yaya- but I expect him to be
the heartbeat of the Ivory Coast side.
Vincent Kompany -
BELGIUM
Captain for both club and country, Vincent Kompany is a
solid and much-respected defender. The 28 year old led City in a double-winning
2013/14 season and will be taking his consistent form to Brazil, having been
named in the PFA Team of the Year for the second time. Belgium are regarded as
many as being the dark horses of the tournament: the Red Devils are fifth
favourites to win the competition behind Brazil, Argentina, Germany and Spain. Such
an occasion calls for a cool head, so Kompany will need to make sure his
temperament is in check and his tackling is spot on. He has been an
ever-present in the warm-up games, comprehensive wins against Sweden,
Luxembourg and Tunisia. This will be his first major international tournament –
a major chance to showcase his capabilities amongst the elite.
