Xabi Alonso is one of seven Spaniards to make the list and one of six Real Madrid club members to be in contention for the Ballon D'Or.
Alonso is a quiet anchor on both sides. He is never the flashiest of players and generally reverts to small but smart plays that contribute to victory. He has also proven to be a major player at big junctures in games. He is also the kind of player to rack up assists instead of scoring the goals. In the 2011-12 season he had one goal and nine assists for Real Madrid. For the entire season he had five goals and 11 assists. The highlight of that season was his two-goal performance in the quarter finals against France at the Euro Cup in Spain's championship run. He also won the Spanish League Championship with Real Madrid.
In this season thus far he has registered two goals and four assists in all competitions, but just one goal and one assist for Real Madrid.
This is his third straight year of being among the top 23 finalists for the Ballon D'Or.
Biggest Moment of the Year: Scoring a brace against France in the quarter finals of the Euro Cup. His first half goal gave Spain a rare first half lead while his second on a penalty shot won guaranteed them victory.
Chances of Being a Top Three Finalist: As in past years, he is likely not in the final three. He won with Real Madrid and Spain this year (something Barcelona teammates were unable to do), but considering other major players that have accomplished similar feats (Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos), he might not have a big shot here.