Xabi Alonso vs Marco Tardelli
Spain against Italy. The almanac states its case, the crowd votes, you decide.
Xabi Alonso
Spain · 1999–2017 · CDM
- Almanac rating
- 89
- Rank in Spain
- #28 of 33
- Caps
- 114 · 16 goals
- Clubs
- Real Sociedad, Liverpool, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol
- Honours
- Hall of Fame 2011
A midfield maestro with an exquisite passing range, Xabi Alonso’s calming presence and pinpoint distribution were vital to Liverpool, Real Madrid, Bayern, and Spain's World Cup and Euros wins. Career record: 114 caps and 16 goals for Spain; club career at Real Sociedad, Liverpool, Real Madrid Club de Fútbol; honours include Hall of Fame 2011.
Marco Tardelli
Italy · 1980s · CDM
- Almanac rating
- 91
- Rank in Italy
- #18 of 33
- Caps
- 81 · 6 goals
- Clubs
- Pisa SC, Juventus, Inter Milan
His iconic scream after scoring in the 1982 World Cup final perfectly encapsulated the passion and tenacity of Italy's midfield engine. Career record: 81 caps and 6 goals for Italy; club career at Pisa SC, Juventus, Inter Milan.
The verdict
The almanac puts Marco Tardelli ahead by 2 rating points, 91 against 89.
Fans have not settled this one yet. Cast the first vote in the duels.