Welcome to #Euro2016Rank, a weeklong look at the top 25 players we expect to see at the European Championship. Over 50 ESPN FC experts and writers from across the globe voted, and we're rolling out the results right up to opening day, when France plays Romania on June 10.
Why is Sergio Busquets in the top 25?
With Xavi and Andres Iniesta as his midfield partners, it took a little while for Busquets to receive the recognition he deserves. That may be because there are few players like him, as a deep-lying midfielder whose careful, unusual style has quietly dictated Barcelona -- and Spain -- to their global-conquering success since he made his breakthrough in 2008. A fierce tackler and competitor, though one who relies more on anticipation than power, it is his creation of angles from his short passes that usually begin his team's attacking moves.
What the experts say:
"I think he's the player who best understands football, whether in attack and defence, in the world. His intelligence to analyse the game is wonderful." -- former Barca and Spain teammate Xavi, May 2015.
"He is a unique player. He is the most complete and, for me, the best midfielder in the world without a doubt. He is a fundamental player for us, not just for his football intelligence but because he can play in any position and play at a very high level." -- Barcelona coach Luis Enrique, November 2015.
Career highlight:
He has won three Champions League titles, the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012. That's a lot of highs for an unsung hero.
Stat of the season:
Busquets had the fourth-most passes this season in La Liga with 2,217 (via Opta).
What next for Busquets after Euro 2016?
After signing a contract extension on May 27, Busquets will remain at the Camp Nou until at least 2021.
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