The German Bundesliga concluded earlier this month with Borussia Dortmund crowned champions for the second consecutive seasona head of Bayern Munich, Schalke and the surprising Monchengladbach, but who were the individual stars of the campaign.
Sports Pundit has decided to put together a series of ‘Top Fives’ throughout Europe’s top leagues to round out the season before we switch our attention the 2012 European Championships.
5. Robert Lewandowski (Borussia Dortmund) The Polish striker emerged as a key influence in BVB’s title defence. Lewandowski netted some 22 goals and provided 10 assists showing his all-round attacking threat, while he also scored in crucial goals as Dortmund pressed for the title. His ability to hold play up with his back to goal improved throughout the season and he proved himself a vital cog in their machine.
4. Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich) Ribery enjoyed a rare injury-free season and reaps the benefits of it, with arguably his finest campaign in the Bundesliga. The French winger provided a league high 12 assists while he also scored 12 goals himself. The former Marseille man was a constant danger down the flank with his bursts forward and direct approach on the ball.
3. Marco Reus (Monchengladbach) The 22-year-old German was one of this season’s big stories with his rapid rise to a premier player with a club who last term battled the drop to become Champions League qualifiers. Reus scored an impressive 18 goals and provided a wonderful nine assists to give the Foals plenty of attacking impetus. Dortmund will be looking forward to his arrival for next season.
2. Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund) The champions conceded just 25 goals in 38 games and Hummels was at the centre of that record with his superb defensive displays. Hummels was particularly impressive in the best contents, where several big names failed to score against Dortmund. The 23-year-old Germany international is a steadying influence on the BVB backline and while Bayern and Moenchengladbach conceded fewer goals, his side were the best on the big occasions.
1. Klaas-Jan Huntelaar (Schalke) It is hard to rival the Dutchman’s campaign where he netted 29 goals and provided nine assists. Huntelaar was the crucial part of Schalke’s impressive campaign where they finished third to clinch a Champions League spot. His influence was obvious given his contribution to their goals tally, but his overall play impressed all observers. ‘The Hunter’ was back to his Ajax best with nearly a goal a game, proving he was the Bundesliga’s best striker ahead of Mario Gomez.