Football is a sport that can change quickly over a relatively short period of time. Even in a new season, breakthrough players and new tactics can cause the way football is played to differ. However, when thinking about the different eras of football, it is often the world's best players that will spring to mind for football fans.
Examples of this can include Johan Cruyff in the 70s, or Paolo Maldini in the 90s. In the 21st century, there have already been countless stars born in the world of football. From headline makers to consistency personified, football has not been short of talent since the turn of the century.
With this in mind, GIVEMESPORT has taken the best player in every position this century to create a starting XI. The following team of players has been chosen based on their career achievements, individual performances, and impact on the sport. GK - Manuel Neuer Goalkeepers are often among the less-mentioned superstars of football.
However, Manuel Neuer is one of the finest footballing talents the world has ever seen. With honourable mentions Iker Casillas and Gianluigi Buffon just missing out, the German stopper was a goalkeeping expert. Incredible for club and country, Neuer often found himself to be a match-winner on the biggest of occasions.
As a two-time UEFA Champions League winner, 11-time German champion, and two-time Club World Cup winner, the German has enjoyed a trophy-laden career with Bayern Munich . However, the sweeper has also been able to taste .