Top performers across football leagues in Europe before coronavirus crisis
The 2019-20 season in European football was going well before the coronavirus pandemic led to the suspension of all matches. Across Europe's top domestic leagues, several stars stepped up. Moreover, certain players also excelled in the UEFA Champions League and the Europa League as well. Here we analyze the top performers in the 2019-20 season ahead of the coronavirus crisis.
De Bruyne and Alexander-Arnold boss the Premier League
Manchester City's Kevin de Bruyne was exceptional in the Premier League. The Belgian scored eight goals and had 16 assists to his name in 26 games. Liverpool, who lead the EPL standings, need to thank youngster Trent Alexander-Arnold. The right-back was superb throughout and had his hand in 12 assists, besides scoring twice. Besides the two, Leicester City's Jamie Vardy caught attention (19 goals).
Serie A: Immobile, Illicic and Ronaldo impress
In Serie A, Lazio forward Ciro Immobile seemed unstoppable. Lazio are second behind Juventus in the standings and Immobile's 27 goals and seven assists played a huge role. Fourth-placed Atalanta, who were terrific, saw Josip Illicic shine with 15 goals and five assists. Not far behind is legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who scored 21 goals for Juve and kept them afloat atop.
Messi: The standout performer in La Liga
Lionel Messi may have missed the first seven La Liga games due to an injury, however, he sprung back to life as the season progressed. With 19 goals and 12 assists, Messi possesses the best stats in the Spanish league. Real Sociedad mid-fielder Mikel Merino showed his graft as well. Real Madrid duo Karim Benzema delivered upfront, whereas, goal-keeper Thiabut Courtois excelled in goal.
Lewandowski impresses in Bundesliga, PSG duo excel in Ligue 1
In Germany's Bundesliga, star forward Robert Lewandowski was unstoppable with 25 goals and three assists. The Polish international was in top goal-scoring form. RB Leipzig's Timo Werner wasn't far behind with 21 goals and seven assists. In France's Ligue 1, PSG's Kylian Mbappe was the star performer with 18 goals and five assists. Senior figure Angel di Maria amassed eight goals and 14 assists.
Top performers in the Champions League and Europa League
In the Champions League, Bayern have almost one foot in the quarters and Lewandowski was brilliant. With 11 goals, he was in red-hot form. Borussia Dortmund may have been knocked out, however, youngster Erling Braut Håland was sensational. In the Europa League, Wolves duo Raul Jiminez and Diogo Jota were unsung heroes. Bruno Fernandes was sublime for both Sporting and Manchester United.
