It's not Messi, the $80 million player who is the big star of the Club World Cup.

As the FIFA Club World Cup progresses, one player has consistently captured the spotlight with his commanding performances: Portuguese midfielder Vitinha of Paris Saint-Germain. While star-studded teammates like Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé arrived with significant fanfare, it is Vitinha's industrious and influential displays that have, thus far, made him the tournament's most talked-about individual.

• 

  Recommended

  A Message to Florentino Pérez: How Luis Enrique Reacted When Told Real Madrid Was Interested in His Players

Vitinha's journey to this prominent role with PSG has been a steady ascent since his arrival in the French capital. Initially joining from FC Porto, the midfielder quickly established himself as a key component in the heart of the PSG midfield. His playing style is characterized by a remarkable combination of defensive diligence, precise passing, and an uncanny ability to dictate the tempo of the game.

Throughout PSG's Club World Cup campaign, Vitinha has been omnipresent. In their opening fixtures, his relentless pressing and intelligent positioning have disrupted opposing attacks, often winning back possession in critical areas. Once the ball is recovered, his immediate focus shifts to initiating offensive movements. His vision allows him to execute incisive passes, breaking lines and setting up opportunities for his attacking colleagues.

Beyond his defensive contributions, Vitinha's offensive involvement has been equally noteworthy. He has consistently showcased his ability to carry the ball forward with purpose, drawing defenders and creating space for others. His connection with the forward line has been evident, often providing the crucial link between midfield solidity and attacking flair. This balance in his play has made him indispensable to PSG's tactical setup in the tournament.

Observers have noted Vitinha's composure under pressure, a quality that has allowed him to thrive in the high-stakes environment of a global club competition. He appears unfazed by the magnitude of the matches, consistently making sound decisions and executing complex plays with precision. His work rate is relentless, covering vast areas of the pitch and contributing in both offensive and defensive phases for the entirety of each match.

• 

  Recommended

  The Champions League winner thrashed them, and this was Diego Simeone's excuse after losing to PSG.

Vitinha's current impact at the Club World Cup is a testament to his continued development and adaptation within the PSG system. His performances have underlined his growing importance to the squad, solidifying his position as a crucial cog in the team's ambitions. As the tournament reaches its decisive stages, all eyes will remain on Vitinha, whose consistent excellence has, so far, made him the standout performer of the competition. His displays have not only benefited PSG but have also provided a compelling narrative of a player delivering beyond initial expectations on a global stage.