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 Juan Roman Riquelme
Argentina | Midfielder Age: 28 While Argentine coach Jose Pekerman has rotated his attacking talents including Hernan Crespo, Carlos Tevez and Lionel Messi, Riquelme has been the metronome at the heart of the World Cup form team's midfield. The Villarreal star has built on an impressive season in Spain to confirm his status as one of the leading midfield orchestrators in the world, setting the rhythm and tempo for Argentina's victories against Ivory Coast, Serbia and Montenegro and Mexico. Having achieved success at home with Boca Juniors, Riquelme's career was in danger of stalling following a high profile move to Barcelona in 2002. Often left on the bench by coach Louis Van Gaal, Riquelme's opportunities were limited as he struggled to adapt to the European game. However, a loan move to Villarreal gave Riquelme a chance to rediscover his form away from the spotlight and the provincial team's recent successes have largely been due to the influence of their Argentine playmaker. Having made his move to Villarreal permanent, Riquelme is once again attracting the attentions of Europe's top clubs, including Manchester United. With his transfer value spiraling, a move to a bigger stage would only seem a matter of time. 
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