September 12th, 1999. It’s a date that lives in the hearts of Real Madrid fans, the day a young, fearless Iker Casillas first donned the famous white jersey of "Los Blancos" in a La Liga match. The stage was San Mamés, home of Athletic Club—a fortress known for its passionate crowd and tough, no-nonsense football. That evening, an 18-year-old boy from Móstoles, fresh from Real Madrid’s youth academy, made his debut. This moment marked the beginning of a legendary career for one of football’s greatest goalkeepers.
When it comes to assembling an all-time XI, it’s always an exciting challenge to explore players from the same birth year. Here, we focus on a lineup of footballers born in 1985, a year that produced a range of exceptional talent across the globe. This team is built on a blend of experience, versatility, and star power, highlighted by iconic figures who left a significant mark on world football.
The 1998/99 PFA Team of the Season encapsulated the best of Premier League football. It was a year defined by Manchester United’s treble, but players from across the league contributed moments of brilliance that shaped the season. From the defensive solidity of Sol Campbell and Jaap Stam to the attacking flair of David Ginola and Nicolas Anelka, this team was packed with talent that would go on to define an era of English football.
The legacy of this team endures, as many of these players became icons of the sport. Whether it was through their leadership, creativity, or goal-scoring prowess, each member of the 1998/99 PFA Team of the Season left an indelible mark on the history of the Premier League.
Rivaldo's 1998/99 season remains an iconic one in football history. His performances for Barcelona, Brazil, and his individual accolades from that period are etched into the annals of the sport. Rivaldo's ability to deliver in crucial moments, whether in domestic league matches or international finals, set him apart as a true great.
Romário’s hat-trick against Real Sociedad remains one of the greatest debuts of all time. It was a perfect introduction, showcasing everything he would bring to Barcelona: goals, magic, and the joy of football. In just 90 minutes, Romário had gone from a new signing to a Camp Nou hero, etching his name into the storied history of one of the world’s most iconic clubs. The Brazilian maestro had arrived, and he made sure the world knew it.