My Personal FIFA World XI

Earlier this week, the international governing body of soccer/football (depending on where you're from), FIFA, announced its annual World XI, a selection of eleven players the federation felt performed at the highest level throughout the calendar year. This year's team raised some eyebrows with several controversial choices, most notably Barcelona's Iniesta, Xavi, and Dani Alves, as well as Real Madrid center back Sergio Ramos. These picks seemed to be based off prestige than actual performance, as many (myself included) felt that none of these players were the best in their positions in 2013. Today, I'll be offering my choices for 2013's best players. For practical purposes, I'll be sticking with the 4-3-3 formation FIFA used.

If you wish, you can view FIFA's official squad by clicking here.

Goalkeeper: Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich, Germany)

My choice for the year's best keeper lines up with FIFA's, as German goalie Manuel Neuer earns the nod. A courageously aggressive and stunningly precise goalkeeper, standing in net for the undisputed top dogs of 2013, Bayern Munich. He played a pivotal role in leading the Bundesliga side to a remarkable five trophies in 2013, as the squad were crowned champions of Europe as they ran away with the league title. The second half of the year was just as kind to Neuer, as Munich look set to once again finish atop the Bundesliga and have a good chance at repeating as Champions League winners. Crucial saves in last year's UCL final against league rivals Borussia Dortmund made the difference for Bayern, with Dortmund only managing to put one past the 6'4" Neuer with a penalty kick. Bayern Munich's 2013 was one of the best years for a single club in recent memory, and Neuer is a big reason why the team was so successful.

Honorable mentions: Thibaut Courtois, David De Gea, Hugo Lloris