Ivory Coast international and former Newcastle United star Cheick Tiote has passed away from apparent heart complications during a training session with his club side in China. In response to his tragic passing, a number of figures from around the footballing world have expressed their sorrow at his death.
We're down to just two teams left in Champions League, with Juventus and Real Madrid set to battle it out to call themselves Europe's best (Saturday, 2 p.m. ET on FOX). Along the way we've seen some incredible performances from players across the continent, even if their efforts didn't see them earn a spot in the latter stages.
But who was the very best player from each team in the UCL group stages this season?
Arsenal: Alexis Sanchez
They may have been shellacked by Bayern in the first knockout round once again, but Alexis Sanchez was unquestionably Arsenal's best player this season in the Champions League.
Atletico Madrid: Antoine Griezmann
The hotline may be cooling for Antoine Griezmann now that Atletico Madrid's transfer ban has been upheld, but the little Frenchman was red hot for Atleti this season. Unless something drastic changes, it looks like he'll be back next year to do the same.
Barcelona: Neymar
Barcelona's form may have fluctuated wildly this year, but Neymar was consistently brilliant for the Blaugrana in the Champions League. He was the best player on the pitch for Barça in their first-leg round of 16 loss against PSG, and he was their inspiration in the miracle-making second. Despite being blanked against Juventus, he was still Barça's most dangerous player, cementing his status as their top man in the competition this year.
Basel: Mohamed Elyounoussi
Basel may have finished bottom of their Champions League group, but attacking midfielder Mohamed Elyounoussi still showed his quality for the Swiss side. He was their best player in the group stages, and the 22-year-old might not be there for too much longer with some of the impressive showings he put in.
Bayer Leverkusen: Kevin Kampl
Bayer Leverkusen qualified from the group stage in first place, but they were disappointing in the knockout rounds as they crashed out at the hands of Atletico Madrid. Midfielder Kevin Kampl was one of the few players to come out with his reputation intact though, and the versatile 26-year-old's energy and technical ability in the middle of the park was a bright spot for Leverkusen.
Bayern Munich: Thiago Alcantara
Finally healthy this season, Thiago Alcantara showed exactly why he's so special. Unmatched technique, the sauciest dribbling ability, and a preternatural calmness on the ball made Thiago indispensable to Bayern this season.
Benfica: Ederson
There's a reason Manchester City just paid €40 million for Ederson's services. He's been sublime for Benfica, and he showed his pedigree in the Champions League. Borussia Dortmund may have put four past him in the round of 16, but he's still pure quality.
