Lionel Messi's team of 2008 Goalkeeper: Petr Čech (Chelsea FC ]
when he has to go out to intercept passes. He has very safe hands.
Right-back: Maicon (FC Internazionale Milano)
I like the style of this Brazilian right-back. He is quick, uses the ball well and makes good decisions when attacking.
Central defender: Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United FC)
He is very good in the air and very strong on his feet. He is very hard to get past.
Central defender: Carles Puyol (FC Barcelona)
He is a leader, he has contagious optimism and he never loses the ball. He is a great team captain.
Left-back: Giovanni van Bronckhorst (Feyenoord)
I know him from his days at Barcelona. He is spirited, determined, a good marker and contributes a lot in attack. He has had a good season at Feyenoord.
Right midfield: Javier Zanetti (FC Internazionale Milano)
He is a perfect example of a professional footballer: supportive, tireless and he gives everything on the pitch.
Central midfield: Xavi Hernández (FC Barcelona)
I've picked my team-mate because I think the middle of the pitch is his natural habitat. He feels comfortable and dominates everything that happens in that area. He is a phenomenon.
Attacking midfield: Cesc Fàbregas (Arsenal FC)
He was my team-mate and my friend in the youth teams of Barcelona. He has grown a lot as a player and has had an excellent 2008.
Left midfield: Andrés Iniesta (FC Barcelona)
The last year has confirmed what a great player he is. He is always in the right place to help the team when they need him.
Forward: Sergio Agüero (Club Atlético de Madrid)
I love him and not just because he's Argentinian! He plays like the gods, has extraordinary quality and a great instinct for scoring goals.
Forward: Wayne Rooney (Manchester United FC)
I love this type of player. He has a great shot, good control of the ball, uses of his body well in the area. He is a great goalscorer.
Coach: Sir Alex Ferguson (Manchester United FC)
Sir Alex, a gentleman, with all the titles. Manchester United won everything in 2008 and that makes him the coach of the year.