Andrew Melnychenko

This Ukrainian defensive midfielder dominates the pitch like an unbreakable wall, thanks to his explosive speed and a near-prophetic gift for anticipating every opponent's pass. Legend has it he once blocked a shot with his face while trying to pull a sandwich out of his pocket, and while he can neutralize any striker, he avoids aerial duels at all costs. His presence is relentless, and he never concedes an inch in the battle for the center of the pitch.