Franck Kessié

Captain and midfield leader

Kessie has been named in Ivory Coast's World Cup squad and will captain the side throughout the competition as the most experienced player in the group.

Analysis: Kessie ended the club season at Al Ahli in Saudi Arabia, contributing 12 goals and six assists in 42 appearances across all competition, bringing the elite experience of a player who has won Serie A, La Liga and the Africa Cup of Nations throughout an outstanding career. The veteran's physicality, leadership and ability to contribute in both directions from central midfield make him the undisputed heartbeat of manager Fae's system. Kessie heads into the World Cup as the leader and spiritual figurehead of a squad that will look to him for guidance and inspiration throughout the competition.