PSG lead the table heading into the new year, but which players make our best XI for the 2017-18 season so far?
Getty ImagesCiprian Tatarusanu (Nantes)
Since he was signed by Claudio Ranieri in the summer, the Romania international goalkeeper has enjoyed a terrific spell in Ligue 1 and has rapidly established himself as a mainstay of Nantes’ side, which has been based around a formidable defence.
No goalkeeper who has played at least 10 matches this season has a higher save percentage than the former Fiorentina shot-stopper’s of 75.81.
AdvertisementGettyimagesDani Alves (PSG)
He may be 34 now, but the former Barcelona man showed last term as he helped Juventus reach the final of the Champions League that he is still one of the best performers in the world in his role, and he has done well to see off the challenge of Thomas Meunier to start regularly for PSG.
He has been an excellent performer in Ligue 1, though he has played only 13 times as his minutes are managed due to his aging legs. He has three assists to his credit, but it is his winning mentality that PSG hope to profit from in the second half of the campaign.
Nordi Mukuele (Montpellier)
It is little surprise that clubs are starting to turn their attention to the 20-year-old, who arrived a year ago from Laval. His versatility has been impressive but he has adapted to Michel Der Zakarian’s five-man defensive line impressively, helping Montpellier to the best defensive record in France, with only 13 goals conceded in 19 games.
The youngster has benefitted immensely from playing alongside veteran Hilton in the Montpellier rearguard, but he has shown immense potential.
Marquinhos (PSG)
The Brazilian is maturing into the world-class centre-back that PSG hoped when they signed him from Roma in 2013, with the 23-year-old having established himself as a vital member of their starting XI this season.
He has been named as third captain of the club – a responsibility that he has revelled in – while he has won 70% of his duels in Ligue 1 this season, the best record in terms of outfielders who have played more than half of the games thus far.