While the international break can be a curse for clubs with injuries and fatigue, sometimes it can lead to a footballer returning home with their head held high
Chelsea – Marcos Alonso
The defender’s brilliant start to the season with Chelsea was embellished by his international debut for Spain under new coach Luis Enrique. His status as one of the best left-backs in the world is being increasingly fortified and Maurizio Sarri can only be happy about Alonso’s time with Spain.
Chelsea – N’Golo Kanté
One of the best midfielders on the pitch, one of the most loved players off the pitch. Kanté is a true star and an example for many young fans and the love he received from his team-mates during France’s World Cup celebration will have given him even more motivation to keep up the splendid form on and off the pitch.
Manchester United – Paul Pogba
The midfielder’s struggles at club level were forgotten as he wore the ‘Bleus’ top and felt once again like a World Cup winner. He danced with the World Cup and celebrated with the team, and will surely be in a great mood once he returns to Manchester.
Real Madrid – Marco Asensio
The Spanish midfielder might not be as glamorous as Cristiano Ronaldo – nobody can be – but Marco Asensio is now stepping up to the final level from talented youngster to real champion. His performance in Spain’s demolition of Croatia showed everyone what he is capable of and Julen Lopetegui will be delighted by his current form.
Tottenham – Heung-Min Son
The South Korean superstar has been away for a while now, but will return to London in the best possible mental state, winning an exemption from military service after winning the Asian Games football final. The Tottenham forward was Korea’s best player, and showed it once again in the recent international friendlies, ready to return to serve Spurs and Mauricio Pochettino in the best possible form.
Atletico Madrid – Saul
The Xavi and Andres Iniesta of the future are Thiago Alcantara and Saul, who destroyed England’s midfield at Wembley with their passing and also found the back of the net. The Atletico Madrid man has been key for Diego Simeone for the past three seasons, and is becoming central to Spain as well. After showing his quality with his national team, he is ready to deliver for Atletico once again.
Sevilla – André Silva
What a night for the Portuguese striker against Italy: in the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo, the Sevilla striker scored the winning goal against his former team-mate at AC Milan, Gianluigi Donnarumma. A small revenge for Silva, who flopped hugely in Serie A and was sent away from AC Milan. He will be even more excited for the rest of the season at Sevilla now.
Everton – Richarlison
Sure, El Salvador aren’t exactly the best team on Earth, but the quality shown by the Everton striker in Brazil’s battering of their opponents is one to remember. He scored twice on his first ever start for Brazil, confirming his club form. After joining for a huge fee in the summer, he is now proving his worth, and will come back even happier from his time with Brazil.
