In the last 20 years, the accolade of FIFA Best player in the world has landed only once in England. Ronaldo won it after extraordinary season with Manchester United. This barren run leads the question Is Premier league short of accolade winning talent?
Or are Premier League teams unable to retain their extraordinary talents? Amazing players like Modric, Bale and Suarez were developed in England but before teams could sow their reap; they were all grabbed by the ever present lurkers that be the two Spanish giants Barca and Real.
With new mega TV Rights deal, PL might be able to attract big names but will they be able to retain their top players. Following are the big names poised to leave England in near future, because, well, they are just too darn talented:
Philippe Coutinho
This young Brazilian playmaker is regularly making headlines. Brilliant dribbler, this Liverpool number 10 scores and is capable of creating as well. His pace, agility and technical quality makes him a perfect heir of Iniesta. Barca Legend Rivaldo recently tipped Coutinho to join Barcelona.
His friendship with Neymar and the chance to play for one of the most followed clubs, might make Coutinho swap Anfield for Camp Nou. Failing to qualify for next season’s Champions League might send Coutinho packing away from England.
Dimitri Payet
In 53 starts for West Ham United, Payet has scored 15 and created 20. A surprise capture by West ham, Dmitri Payet is considering move away from West ham to his home Marseille.
Almost every media houses was surprised when Payet penned a new deal last winter. Matured talent like Payet in mid table club like West Ham did not look like a happy marriage. Brilliant dead ball specialist and lethal shooter Payet is targeted by many clubs in England however it is Marseille who is thought to be capturing French midfielder.
Alexis Sanchez
Sanchez really thrived after leaving Barcelona. He was always in the shadows of Lionel Messi, in the Catalonian club. Once targeted by Sir Alex Ferguson, Arsenal broke the bank to bring him to London. With only 18 months remaining in his contract and him refusing to pen new deal, lucrative deals from PSG might be too hard to refuse.
Eden Hazard
Hazard’s creativity, speed, and technical ability are widely praised. He has been described as “a superb passer” and has earned critical acclaim for his playing style.
Current superstar of Premier League, he is being followed closely by Real Madrid. PFA Player of the year in 2014/15 Hazard has utilised the free moving role in Conte’s management.
After a bad season last term, Hazard is flying again this term. Although signed by Chelsea till 2020, Real Madrid possess strength to lure away this midfielder to Spain.
Thibaut Courtois
It is reported that this Chelsea numero uno is targeted by Real Madrid. Courtois spent a highly successful spell with Atletico Madrid, while winning League, Copa Del Rey and reaching the Champions League Final. With Mourinho in charge, and their transfer history De Gea is a distant dream for Los Blancos. For a settled goalkeeper Madrid club is ready to loosen their purse strings and there are a few in European football better than Courtois.