Champions League 100: Ranking the Top Players in the 2015-16 Campaign
Welcome to B/R's ranking of the top 100 players participating in the 2015-16 UEFA Champions League campaign.
Barcelona will look to become the first side to retain the trophy in the league's current format, but Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Juventus, Atletico Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and more have all reloaded in preparation for spoiling the party.
With quite a plethora of talent on show—be it of the shot-stopping, defensive, playmaking or pure finishing variety—we thought it apt to take a stab at ordering the players based on overall talent.
The ranking criteria is quite simple. We measure each player against one another in an overall fashion, asking the question: Who is better?
This list encompasses a player's performances over the last 12 months and projects into the new campaign. Nothing is ever the same—tactical and managerial changes, new signings and even age can drastically alter the hierarchy—and you'll see some sizable shifts in comparison to last season.
All statistics are via WhoScored.com.
Eligibility, Exclusions and Honourable Mentions
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Any player who is confirmed on a participating club's 25-man Champions League roster is eligible by default, though we have made a few exceptions in order to bring a realistic, complete feel to the list.
First up, as with our Premier League 100 counterpart, backup goalkeepers have been excluded. They take up valuable space in a ridiculously competitive ranking, and for that reason you won't find Claudio Bravo in here, despite his excellent 2014-15.
We've also opted to leave out any player who looks as though he may miss a significant chunk of the competition due to injury. For example, Diego Alves of Valencia has a torn ACL and may not feature at all, so he won't find a place in the order.
Honourable Mentions
- Andrea Barzagli, CB, Juventus
- Daley Blind, CB/DM, Manchester United
- Dani Parejo, CM, Valencia
- Fernandinho, RB, Manchester City
- Giannelli Imbula, CM, FC Porto
- Grzegorz Krychowiak, DM, Sevilla
- Hector Herrera, CM, FC Porto
- Hulk, Wing, Zenit St. Petersburg
- Pablo Zabaleta, RB, Manchester City
- Shkodran Mustafi, CB, Valencia
- Yevhen Konoplyanka, Wing, Sevilla
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100. Bastian Schweinsteiger, CM, Manchester United
Bayern Munich regretted to see “Basti” leave, but only for sentimental reasons. He’s still a good player, but he’s no longer in that top tier and struggles to stay fit.
99. Gary Cahill, CB, Chelsea
Gary Cahill’s form has dipped, and he’s under pressure from Kurt Zouma. He’ll need to put his best foot forward every week if he is to retain his starting spot for Chelsea.
98. Luiz Gustavo, DM, Wolfsburg
Luiz Gustavo plays the defensive aspect of defensive midfield better than almost anyone but lacks a little something going forward. If he could add a calmer, more attacking colour to his palette, he’d be up there with Nemanja Matic and Xabi Alonso.
97. Naldo, CB, Wolfsburg
Naldo should be looking forward to partnering Dante this season. The 33-year-old is in his prime and playing superbly, and now he’s got a colleague to match his calibre.
96. Radja Nainggolan, CM, Roma
Losing Kevin Strootman to injury would have been a bitter blow had it not been for Radja Nainggolan, who somehow cruelly missed out on the Belgium 2014 World Cup squad despite excelling for Roma.
95. Axel Witsel, DM, Zenit St. Petersburg
Axel Witsel’s a premier anchor midfielder but, sadly, an underrated performer, due to the fact that he’s hidden away in Russia. Won’t someone pay the money to bring him to a more prominent league?
94. Ricardo Rodriguez, LB, Wolfsburg
Ricardo Rodriguez is the next star left-back, and clubs will be hoping Wolfsburg peak briefly before falling away, allowing suitors to swoop in to relieve them of this well-rounded, decisive defender.
93. Wayne Rooney, ST, Manchester United
The restoring of Wayne Rooney to the No. 9 role was supposed to be the answer, but it hasn’t been. He’s failed to put together a consistent run for about a year.
92. Jan Oblak, GK, Atletico Madrid
Jan Oblak should be your goalkeeper to watch; he’s rising to prominence quickly. With Miguel Angel Moya on the bench this year for Atleti and not impinging upon the Slovenian’s playing time, it won’t be long before the bigger fish are linked with massive bids for his services.
91. Mario Gotze, No. 10, Bayern Munich
It just hasn’t worked out for Mario Gotze in Munich after his infamous transfer from Borussia Dortmund. The 23-year-old is still incredibly young, but Pep Guardiola isn’t getting the best out of him and doesn’t appear to trust him.
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90. Laurent Koscielny, CB, Arsenal
Laurent Koscielny is the best defender in this Arsenal squad, but he lacks a little bit of consistency. He goes from world-beater to costly too quickly, too often.
89. Tiago, DM, Atletico Madrid
Tiago’s role under Diego Simeone is pretty reductive, but the job still has to be done. He’s a fantastic anchor midfielder whose career has been elongated due to his great systematic fit at Atleti.
88. Giorgio Chiellini, CB, Juventus
Giorgio Chiellini has slipped in our estimations following an error-plagued 12 months. Dropping clangers in big games will see you tumble down the rankings.
87. Jackson Martinez, ST, Atletico Madrid
Jackson Martinez got his big move this summer—two years later and to a different country than expected. He has to replace Mario Mandzukic at Atletico Madrid, and judging by his skill set, he should do just fine.
86. Alvaro Morata, ST, Juventus
Alvaro Morata’s a pretty limited, old-fashioned, channel-running No. 9, but he’s good at what he does. There are few more reliable finishers in the game.
85. Marquinhos, CB, Paris Saint-Germain
For reasons unknown, though likely sourced in global imaging and financial dictations, David Luiz starts ahead of Marquinhos frequently. Marquinhos is the better player.
84. Morgan Schneiderlin, DM, Manchester United
Morgan Schneiderlin finally gets his wish for Champions League football and will set about proving he’s United’s best midfielder. His blend of stylish passing and crushing defensive instinct can light up any game.
83. Branislav Ivanovic, RB, Chelsea
Branislav Ivanovic has endured a confusing start to the season, being ripped apart by every left-winger in sight. We’re willing to believe it’s a minor blip, though, and that his class will shine through as the campaign progresses.
82. Pepe, CB, Real Madrid
Pepe has been at Real Madrid since 2007 and, having signed a two-year extension that finishes in 2017, will likely make it a decade in white. He’s been slowly usurped by Raphael Varane but remains a rotational option with a welcome nasty streak.
81. Daniele De Rossi, DM, Roma
Daniele De Rossi hasn’t shown the consistency we’d all like for a while, but on his day he’s a top defensive midfielder capable of nullifying playmakers and dictating play.
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80. Kevin De Bruyne, No. 10, Manchester City
Kevin De Bruyne now moves from big fish in a small pond (Wolfsburg) to one of several smaller fishes in a great, gargantuan lake (Manchester City). It will be interesting to see if he’s given the positional freedom he needs to thrive.
79. Filipe Luis, LB, Atletico Madrid
Filipe Luis is back at Atletico Madrid and playing well. The Chelsea experiment was wholly bizarre for a number of reasons, but the Brazilian’s talent was never in doubt. He’s our fifth-best left-back in the Champions League.
78. Juan Mata, No. 10/RW, Manchester United
Juan Mata has found a home, finally, on the right wing for Manchester United. He comes in off the edge to link play superbly, offers a goal threat and provides cutting passes.
77. Patrice Evra, LB, Juventus
Patrice Evra surprised many by producing a stellar 2014-15, bolstering Juventus’ left-back strength and offering a sturdy defensive presence. Has he got another one at that level left in him?
76. Claudio Marchisio, CM, Juventus
Claudio Marchisio is the elder statesman of the Juventus midfield now and will be expected to retain the Italian spine to the Turin club. He’s a strong box-to-box player who can deputise well in the anchor role post-Andrea Pirlo if necessary.
75. Raphael Varane, CB, Real Madrid
Rafa Benitez has selected Varane as his first-choice partner for Sergio Ramos this season, and rightly so. It’s about time a Real Madrid manager showed faith in the 22-year-old; despite his tender age, his only vice is his injury record.
74. Jose Maria Gimenez, CB, Atletico Madrid
Jose Maria Gimenez is already an excellent player. In a like-for-like fashion he’s better than Pepe, and we have him just edging Varane. Diego Simeone (and Diego Godin) have done a stunning job bringing him through.
73. Raheem Sterling, Wing, Manchester City
Raheem Sterling, playing off Sergio Aguero and alongside David Silva, figures to be an absolute weapon this season. Will it translate to the Champions League?
72. Oscar, No. 10, Chelsea
Oscar’s a fantastic, intelligent, intuitive No. 10...but he has fitness problems that hinder his progression in Chelsea’s side. If he can stay fit, he’s a press-setting, linking player with the mobility and desire to match.
71. Cesar Azpilicueta, LB/RB, Chelsea
Cesar Azpilicueta is the sole Chelsea player so far this season not to lose form; his dependable, non-flashy yet ruthlessly efficient brand of defending has been a bright spark for the Blues.
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70. Aaron Ramsey, CM, Arsenal
Aaron Ramsey is becoming a slightly divisive player among the Arsenal fans; his box-to-box energy and impact is without question, but does he play his best football loosely off the right?
69. Vincent Kompany, CB, Manchester City
We have tempered Vincent Kompany’s ranking a little due to his dramatic loss of form over 2014-15, but this campaign he’s started superbly. Has he rediscovered his mojo?
68. Willian, Wing/No. 10, Chelsea
Since January, plenty of Chelsea players have struggled for top-class form, but Willian is one of the few exceptions. He’s expected to see more time as a No. 10 this season with Pedro taking the right flank. How will that affect his showings?
67. Javier Pastore, CM, Paris Saint-Germain
Javier Pastore’s last campaign for Paris Saint-Germain forced him into a starting berth for Argentina at the Copa America 2015. He breaks between the lines and opens avenues with his aggressive dribbling.
66. Medhi Benatia, CB, Bayern Munich
Medhi Benatia joined Bayern Munich last summer after putting in a stunning 2013-14 in Serie A. The first season in Germany was an up-and-down experience, but when is it ever smooth under Pep Guardiola for a centre-back?
65. Santi Cazorla, CM, Arsenal
Santi Cazorla, 30, appears to be getting better with age and as he drops deeper on the pitch. Playing alongside Francis Coquelin, he’s threading passes and controlling games with ease.
64. Dani Carvajal, RB, Real Madrid
Despite Real Madrid’s recruitment and starting of Danilo this season, Dani Carvajal remains the best right-back on the club’s roster. Great in all thirds and deceptively productive in attack, the Spaniard still starts for his nation and stands the country’s best in a strong position.
63. Thiago Motta, DM, Paris Saint-Germain
One of the world’s genuinely underrated players, Thiago Motta continues to hold the fort for Paris Saint-Germain while their more luxurious performers excite the crowd.
62. Edinson Cavani, ST, Paris Saint-Germain
Put simply, Edinson Cavani can’t be trusted. He puts together great scoring runs and impresses statistically, but when the big opportunities fall to his feet in the big games, they are too often spurned.
61. Lucas Moura, Wing, Paris Saint-Germain
Lucas Moura is the type of dynamic, fast player every manager wants to have. He can blow open a game with an electric run, and as his deliveries and decision-making improve, he’s steadily turning into a menace.
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60. Gabi, DM, Atletico Madrid
Gabi had a down year in 2014-15 by his standards; he struggled to produce consistently strong performances and would have been dropped a lot more often for poor form had he not been Diego Simeone's trusted confidant. He's still the midfield general of a tight tactical unit, though.
59. Mario Mandzukic, ST, Juventus
Mario Mandzukic doesn’t tend to stay in one place very long—is there something to be gleaned from that, perhaps? But he does go from top club to top club. He’s physical, aggressive and the perfect lone striker to use in 2015.
58. Nicolas Otamendi, CB, Manchester City
Nicolas Otamendi was La Liga’s best centre-back in 2014-15, but with just one season at an elite level under his belt, the pressure is on for him to prove he belongs. His big move to Manchester City provides the platform for either vast success or outright failure.
57. Juanfran, RB, Atletico Madrid
Juanfran is one of the most unspectacular players on the planet, but that shouldn’t distract from the fact he’s extremely efficient. He defends properly, makes good decisions and can shut down the very best of wingers.
56. Petr Cech, GK, Arsenal
Petr Cech’s horror start to life with Arsenal has quickly been forgotten, with a superlative display against Liverpool reminding fans who he really is. He’s commanding in the box and has a penchant for the spectacular.
55. Thiago Alcantara, CM, Bayern Munich
Thiago Alcantara is one of the most naturally talented players in the world, but after a slew of injuries halted his progression at Bayern Munich, he has it all to prove.
54. Pedro, Wing, Chelsea
Pedro embarks upon a new chapter in his career, plying his trade for a team other than Barcelona in the Champions League for the first time. He’s a little limited as a player, but with his strengths accentuated—namely his speed, finishing and natural width—he can become a key player.
53. Marcelo, LB, Real Madrid
Conceivably underrated due to the array of Galacticos around him claiming the plaudits, Marcelo is a truly wonderful footballer who carries the ball with both great speed and control.
52. Jordi Alba, LB, Barcelona
He’s as quick as they come, offers thrust from deep and stands as one of the most technically sound defenders ever to grace the Camp Nou.
51. John Terry, CB, Chelsea
With his playing days winding down, though, Terry will be desperate to prolong his time at the pinnacle of European football as he strives for a second Champions League triumph.
50. Isco, No. 10, Real Madrid
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Isco still hasn’t managed to nail down a consistent spot in Real Madrid’s XI, but don’t let that spoil your perception of a truly wonderful player—he’d be the focal point of most other teams’ attacks.
His incredible agility, mesmerising dribbling ability and penchant for the inventive make him a dangerous player, and crucially, he’s productive as well as easy on the eye.
Operating off the flank or between the lines, he can run rings around defenders and make the difference in tight games.
49. Marco Verratti, CM, Paris Saint-Germain
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Marco Verratti has always been talked about as the “next Andrea Pirlo,” and now, three years after he rose to prominence by signing for Paris Saint-Germain, he’s realising his potential under the weight of the tag.
He dominates games and monopolises the ball, probing, pushing and pulling the strings in the centre. PSG have a luxury midfield with a number of elite options, but Verratti, at just 22 years of age, is close to sealing the status of an undroppable.
After many witnessed him dictate the midfield at the Camp Nou last season in the Champions League, it was difficult to ignore how comfortable he looked on that pitch in Catalonia.
48. Xabi Alonso, DM, Bayern Munich
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Xabi Alonso’s first signs of decline were exposed last season, as he was caught on the ball too often in the Champions League. He bossed the Bundesliga with ease, setting records for passes and touches, but he will want to bounce back in Europe’s most prestigious competition.
Pep Guardiola trusts him to marshal the midfield, supply diagonal passes in order to release his quicker wingers, and contribute defensively, too. He’s a brilliant all-rounder with an underrated defensive ability but has doubters to win over now for the first time in his career.
Can he rise to the challenge, or has Alonso peaked?
47. Leonardo Bonucci, CB, Juventus
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Leonardo Bonucci has usurped Giorgio Chiellini and Andrea Barzagli in fan estimations; he’s the best centre-back on Juventus’ roster after emerging as a player over the last few years.
He’s the coolest ballplayer among them, thrives in aerial duels and dominates positionally. As capable in a back four as he is in a back three, he’s quickly become the dream centre-back to work with and stands significantly less error-prone than most in his position.
46. Blaise Matuidi, CM, Paris Saint-Germain
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Blaise Matuidi is now emerging as one of the world’s best central midfielders, utilising incredible energy and directness to cause opposing defences all sorts of problems.
His signature run splits the full-back and centre-back, hitting the channel, manipulating the space between players and entering the box as a late runner. He’s comfortable crossing from the byline, too, making him tough to predict when the ball is at his feet.
He can be untidy at times, but he’s ridiculously effective.
45. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, ST, Paris Saint-Germain
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After weeks of rumours about his future, Zlatan Ibrahimovic remained with Paris Saint-Germain, and as he enters his fourth year in the French capital, it appears as if Qatar Sports Investments’ ambition to succeed in the Champions League might finally come to fruition.
Though Ibrahimovic’s role appears to be diminishing, Laurent Blanc’s side are collectively as strong as ever, and such a plethora of attacking options will reduce the burden on the Swede.
Still a crucial cog in this machine, the forward will relish the role of facilitating the outstanding talent around him, and if done correctly, he might finally break through to become a winner of the Champions League.
44. Antoine Griezmann, ST, Atletico Madrid
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It says a lot about Antoine Griezmann’s relationship with Diego Simeone that he remains an Atletico Madrid player after knocking back the overtures from some of Europe’s richest clubs.
The Frenchman has already shown us flashes of greatness, and under Cholo’s tutelage we can expect a more consistent level of performance this season.
With perhaps the perfect combination of centre-forwards to complement the 24-year-old’s attacking instincts, Atleti appear to have the tools to make it to the San Siro in 2016 and their second Champions League final in three seasons. Griezmann will no doubt be key to those hopes.
43. Arda Turan, Wing, Barcelona
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It may surprise some people to see Arda Turan featured here, given his registration ban until 2016. But with Barcelona expected to progress to the very latter stages of the competition, we're very likely to see some of the Turk post-February regardless of his inaction over the next four months.
The 28-year-old has come a long way thanks to Diego Simeone, as he's ironed out great inconsistencies in his game and installed a great tenacity to his moves. He never stops running—at times to his own detriment, with fitness issues dogging him—and has emerged as one of world football's premier link players due to his ability with the ball at his feet.
He scores, creates and defends his flank: a manager's dream.
42. Koke, CM, Atletico Madrid
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Koke will be handed the vice-captain role at Atletico Madrid in the wake of Raul Garcia’s move to Athletic Club—that’s how highly Diego Simeone thinks of him.
It is widely expected that eventually he’ll move into the commanding central position Gabi occupies, but for now he’ll stay in the unorthodox wider role that asks for a bizarre cocktail of defensive aptitude, playmaking ability and outright hard work.
A tactically intuitive, diligent player, he is the future of Spain’s midfield.
41. Javier Mascherano, CB/DM, Barcelona
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Javier Mascherano’s consistently high standards should be admired. It’s not often a player is able to maintain an elite level in two positions, constantly switching between them, and challenge for trophies on both domestic and international fronts.
For Barcelona he has morphed almost entirely into a centre-back, only asked to play as a holding midfielder as cover for Sergio Busquets if injured. He’s instinctive, decisive in the challenge and covers the channels superbly.
His clear height disadvantage has never really been an issue, amazingly, which is testament to his nous and football IQ. He doesn’t let teams get the better of him despite being unable to close the gap between himself and the likes of Aritz Aduriz, Fernando Llorente and Co.
40. David Alaba, LB/CM/CB, Bayern Munich
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David Alaba's position is now incredibly tough to nail down. He learnt his trade as a central midfielder originally before deputising at left-back for Bayern Munich, but he got so good at it under Jupp Heynckes he was largely recognised as the best in the world at that position.
Under Pep Guardiola he's played most roles and even seen continued time at centre-back, but very much remains a chess piece that the Spaniard can move around and manipulate when required.
His ridiculously wide array of skills, in addition to his somatotype, make him one of the most well-rounded players in the game.
39. Yaya Toure, CM, Manchester City
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Yaya Toure has already sealed one Champions League victory playing centre-back for Barcelona under Pep Guardiola, and now Manchester City fans feel its time for him to lead them to their first playing as a destructive, goal-scoring midfielder.
He's undeniably brilliant on his day, blending power with speed, a cracking long shot and a wonderful stroked pass, but does he pull it out often enough against the big teams on the big nights?
Most would legitimately argue no, and that's what needs to change for the Ivorian.
38. Gianluigi Buffon, GK, Juventus
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The evergreen Gianluigi Buffon continues to excel despite inching closer to 40 years of age. Ahead of Italy’s tussle with Bulgaria on Sunday, in which the 37-year-old Juventus net-minder won his 150th cap, Azzurri manager Antonio Conte admitted he is nothing short of “a champion,” via Goal.com.
He still boasts the reflexes and big-game ability to rival any other No. 1, and his lengthy frame covers every angle and reaches every shot—no matter how well they’re directed toward the corner.
He ranks as our fourth-best goalkeeper entering the 2015-16 Champions League campaign.
37. Jerome Boateng, CB, Bayern Munich
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Jerome Boateng is perhaps most famous now for being embarrassed by Lionel Messi in the Champions League semi-finals last season. The flurry of vines depicting him disappearing through trap doors and such badly betray his actual footballing ability.
He had a very good campaign—bar the Messi incident—in 2014-15 and produced the most consistent level of performance of any Bayern Munich centre-back. He’s strong, quick and decisive and has a knack for scoring important goals.
36. Robert Lewandowski, ST, Bayern Munich
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Does Robert Lewandowski score enough goals? The Polish target man, entering his second season with Bayern Munich, has an all-round game many strikers would kill for, but his production in front of the net has lacked at times.
For Borussia Dortmund he carved out a reputation as a mobile forward capable of expert link-up play and intuitive movement. His interaction with the likes of Jakub Blaszczykowski, Mario Gotze and Marco Reus formed the nexus of the team’s approach play.
He’s still that same player but hasn’t sparked at Bayern...yet. In an ever-changing system under Pep Guardiola, it can be difficult to establish relationships with players. But with a season filed away in the practice cabinet, there’s every chance he'll come out swinging in 2015-16.
35. Dani Alves, RB, Barcelona
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The first half of Dani Alves’ 2014-15 was pretty bad, sparking claims that his career was winding to a close. His positioning was off, his crossing was especially poor and his general game lacked its usual penetration.
But in the new year we saw a dramatic upturn, and with Alves catching fire, playing something resembling his finest career football, Barcelona began favouring his side to build attacks again, and the goals started flowing.
A buccaneering, flying full-back at his peak, the Brazilian has formed a majestic partnership with Lionel Messi on the right flank and is expected to have another big campaign.
34. Toni Kroos, CM, Real Madrid
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Despite a typically dramatic Real Madrid summer transfer window—including failed pursuits, unnecessary additions and the blatant ignoring of team needs—Toni Kroos has held down his spot as the dedicated holding midfielder. Rafa Benitez, like Carlo Ancelotti before him, seems intent on having the German stabilise the team.
He’s extremely intelligent and understands the game deeply but has never truly convinced in the nullifier role. Florentino Perez hoped Kroos could replicate Xabi Alonso on every level, but the off-the-ball stuff isn’t up to scratch...yet.
If he shows progression in that phase, he could skip up this list and trouble the top order.
33. Ivan Rakitic, CM, Barcelona
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More than perhaps any other player in this Barcelona squad, Ivan Rakitic stands as a symbol of change evident between the Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique reigns.
When he joined last summer he was, tactically, a pretty horrible fit for the Catalan club, but he’s been a major catalyst in changing the way they play.
Rakitic superseded Andres Iniesta as the 'go-to' guy in midfield, with Enrique keen for his players to find the Croatian as often as possible between the lines, allowing his direct, abrupt passing to unlock a more vertical strand in the XI.
Pairing Rakitic with a striker like Luis Suarez, whose first instincts are matched, was a masterstroke from Enrique.
Expect the former Sevilla man to have another extremely productive season.
32. Nemanja Matic, DM, Chelsea
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Nemanja Matic has started this campaign very poorly, struggling against run-of-the-mill midfields such as those of West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace. Should James Morrison really be giving a player of this calibre the runaround?
But on an overall basis, allowing for blips, Matic is a beastly midfielder who has every desirable asset. He’s tall enough to dominate aerially, deceptively quick across the ground and is drawn to tackles like a magnet on steel.
He slaloms forward with impressive verve, but it’s his defensive skill set that makes his money. He’s one of a few modern defensive midfielders who contains better than he attacks.
31. Mesut Ozil, No. 10, Arsenal
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Mesut Ozil still possesses a rather ridiculous amount of detractors. There was a time where the fact that he is a world champion perhaps did not show in his domestic play, but now it does; he’s firing on all cylinders for Arsenal and running games single-handedly.
Seb Stafford-Bloor of uMAXit Football summarised his skill set perfectly when labelling it as “boutique.” He’s perhaps an acquired taste, but zone in on him for one game and watch him dictate a match using slight movements and killer passes—he can be jaw-dropping in his execution at times.
The one vice? He lacks the physicality to shake a close man-marking job. But surround him with talent, ensuring other teams can’t home in on him, and watch him prosper.
30. James Rodriguez, AM, Real Madrid
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This season could be the one that sees James Rodriguez championed as European football’s most outstanding No. 10.
The Colombian returned late this summer after international duty at the Copa America. But despite being below optimum condition, he has immediately nagged manager Rafael Benitez to integrate him into his starting lineup.
The early signs are he is growing into that superstar potential we have seen since his first days in European football with Porto. His silky touches, intuitive give-and-go patterns of play around the penalty area and a laser-like shot from distance make him one of the most exciting players to monitor this season.
29. Gerard Pique, CB, Barcelona
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Gerard Pique has landed himself a high, high spot in our rankings, and while that may come as a surprise to some readers, it's a just reward for the incredibly impressive, consistent season he put together in 2014-15.
Back to his confident, instinctive best, we saw the Spaniard marshal the Barcelona line, pass out from the back smoothly and make next to no errors in defence. He picked up five La Liga goals, helping his side eke out some close results at times, and he reasserted himself as the linchpin of the defensive setup.
He was the Blaugrana's best centre-back last term.
28. Diego Costa, ST, Chelsea
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Diego Costa’s debut season at Chelsea was largely a success.
Twenty Premier League goals helped secure a first title in five years for the Blues, but niggling injuries and numerous infringements on the field hampered a potentially great season. Whether the aforementioned issues were solely responsible is unclear, but Costa failed to score in the Champions League last season.
Having blasted Atletico Madrid to the final in the previous campaign with eight goals in nine games, to go scoreless in seven will clearly weigh heavy on his mind entering this season.
The Spanish international must control his temper better and produce in Europe once more if the Blues are able to advance to the latter stages of the competition.
27. Thomas Muller, FWD, Bayern Munich
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Thomas Muller is another rather divisive player, as despite his undoubted quality, production and rather sizable trophy cabinet, he can look ungainly at times, which puts people off speaking about him in truly glowing terms.
He is a slightly strange player to grasp—which is truly hammered home by the fact that he has a position, “raumdeuter” (space interpreter), named after him that makes little sense to layfans until explained—and his major strength comes in the form of football IQ, rather than a more regular, tangible strength such as strength or finishing.
The "raumdeuter" term is coined due to his ability to find and slot into pockets of space and utilise them well; he doesn't struggle to provide an outlet for the ball and can spark superb overloads on the flank he plays on.
If allowed to play a looser role off the front, he can flourish, and he carried the torch for Germany as the No. 9 at the 2014 World Cup. He’s a player every coach would love to have even though he possesses that same marmite quality Mesut Ozil does when it comes to fan appreciation.
26. Franck Ribery, Wing, Bayern Munich
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It’s difficult to gauge Franck Ribery; of all the players in this top 100, he was arguably the toughest individual to place.
At 32 years of age, it’s clear that injuries have caught up with him. Niggles, knocks and strains are common for him, and he missed the 2014 World Cup and significant portions of the last campaign because of them.
When on form and fit, he’s absolutely devastating. Electric pace and stunning control, in addition to an eye for goal, have made him one of the world’s most prominent wingers for a long time. How much of that does he have left in the tank?
25. Luka Modric, CM, Real Madrid
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Real Madrid really suffered last season in the absence of Luka Modric. The diminutive Croatian midfielder struck up a wonderful partnership in Madrid’s midfield with Toni Kroos, only for its potential to be scuppered by several injuries throughout the campaign.
Modric’s low centre of gravity allows him to slalom through congested midfields, providing a different dimension to Real Madrid’s attack when the opposition chooses to sit deep.
Rafa Benitez will be delighted to have Modric fully fit again this season, knowing how important he is for the team’s balance. The 30-year-old will also be tasked with helping compatriot and outstanding talent Mateo Kovacic adjust to life at Madrid.
24. Karim Benzema, ST, Real Madrid
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Maybe one day we’ll get through a summer transfer window without Karim Benzema being incessantly linked to Arsenal. Maybe.
With another one of those firmly under our belts, and with Benzema still safely instated as Real Madrid’s primary No. 9, we can turn our attentions back to how good he really is—as a player, not as a potential fit in north London.
The Frenchman is the perfect striker to accompany Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo. He dips in and creates space for them to hit at speed, and his playmaking skills, for a forward, are truly great.
His finishing could use some improvement—he often slams his shots straight into the keeper’s body—but there’s not a lot he can’t do.
23. Paul Pogba, CM, Juventus
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We’ve ranked Paul Pogba the fifth-best central midfielder in world football heading into this Champions League season. For some that will be too high, for others too low, but no one doubts that he has the ability to become the best in the world at his position.
A name that makes Manchester United fans cringe at their own club’s grievous errors regarding player treatment, Pogba has blossomed, moving from prospect to bona fide star inside two years.
His ability to explode between the lines, strike from distance, pick a pass and contest aerially make him the all-round, complete package. Athletically, technically and mentally, he’s superior to most.
22. Diego Godin, CB, Atletico Madrid
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Diego Godin has extended his stay at Atletico Madrid until at least 2019, and fans of the club can rest assured they have one of the best centre-backs in the world to anchor their defence for four more years.
The Uruguayan has been central to Atleti's defensive solidity these past few seasons, dominating from the back and excelling in the system. Aerially he's unbeatable, and he scores key goals from set-pieces and protects the channels very well, too.
As a leader in the team, he's also taken compatriot Jose Maria Gimenez under his wing and nurtured him into a first-team player at rapid speed, safeguarding the future of the club on and off the pitch.
21. Thiago Silva, CB, Paris Saint-Germain
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Thiago Silva has started the season brilliantly, putting in four stellar performances and one good one for Paris Saint-Germain as the capital club take a firm hold of Ligue 1. It's the perfect riposte to Dunga's dumping him out of the Brazil squad.
Now nearly 31 years of age, Silva feels like he's spent the last two seasons at a level just below his peak, but in 2015-16 it's feasible that he'll reach 2012 levels of excellence—should he continue in the manner he's started.
Once seen as the best centre-back in world football, he's seen others usurp him due to his team's inability to contest the Champions League semi-final and final stages.
He's still the perfect centre-back: tall, strong yet graceful, good on the ball and a technician in the tackle. Taking Silva as well as Zlatan Ibrahimovic from AC Milan was one of the best decisions PSG have ever made.
20. Thibaut Courtois, GK, Chelsea
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Thibaut Courtois is one of just a few elite goalkeepers. The Belgian possesses a rare combination of freakish athleticism, which allows him to pull off outstanding saves, and an enormous frame that allows him to relieve pressure on his team with his aerial dominance.
He was the glue that held a stumbling Chelsea defence together in the first few games of the season, but now, with a lengthy lay-off confirmed (somewhere between two and four months), the Blues will be without their star Belgian and must rely on Asmir Begovic.
Should Chelsea make the latter stages—and they should—Courtois will be a welcome boost come February.
19. Cesc Fabregas, CM, Chelsea
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Cesc Fabregas is something of an enigma. Lately he has come under fierce criticism for his inability to contribute defensively, but it has been quickly forgotten that he was crucial in Chelsea’s early dominance last season.
Whether deploying him alongside Nemanja Matic or pushed in behind Diego Costa, Jose Mourinho will be busy attempting to solve this conundrum.
If Chelsea can rediscover their pressing game, the challenge for Fabregas will be to be braver in possession; vanishing in the same manner as the second leg of 2014-15's last-16 tie against Paris Saint-Germain simply will not slide.
18. David Silva, No. 10, Manchester City
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David Silva has started the new Premier League season on fire, reminding us all that when he hits form Manchester City are nearly impossible to stop. His vision and ability to pick a pass might just be the best in the game at the moment, and it’s a wonder Barcelona haven’t come knocking in the last three years.
He’s key to everything City do at the highest level, though which role he plays this season has now been clouded by the addition of Kevin De Bruyne. Will the new arrival get the freedom of the No. 10 role, or will Silva retain it?
The Spaniard can split defences in two with one look.
17. Sergio Busquets, DM, Barcelona
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Sergio Busquets is still the premier defensive midfielder in world football and the highest-ranked in his position on our list. Simply put, he's what every young player in this area of the pitch should aspire to be.
Barcelona's opening game of this season, against Athletic Club, illustrated how important he is to the club. After withdrawing late in the second half due to injury, Los Leones immediately found space to work with in midfield and started creating chances on goal. Despite Javier Mascherano's move into Busquets' role, the former was overrun in minutes.
Busquets has been integral to this side for the entirety of its time at the pinnacle of the sport, boasting a complete skill set. His defensive nous, mixed with his underrated passing ability, makes him the pivot upon which the entire Blaugrana side sits.
16. Philipp Lahm, FB/DM, Bayern Munich
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“Philipp Lahm is perhaps the most intelligent player I have ever trained in my career. He is at another level,” Pep Guardiola said after just a few months working alongside Lahm at Bayern Munich, via Goal.com. This, coming from a man who coached Andres Iniesta, Xavi, Lionel Messi and many more, is quite a statement.
Lahm has shown late-career versatility, filling in at holding midfield and playing some fantastic football despite spending a decade or so at full-back only. He’s diligent, intelligent and extremely efficient in the final third pushing forward. His football IQ is off the charts.
Retiring from international duty will prolong his domestic career, and Bayern fans can rest assured they’re relying on one of the best in the business to knit their side together.
15. David De Gea, GK, Manchester United
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Manchester United have pulled a rabbit out of the hat. They've fended off Real Madrid's interest in David de Gea and got him to sign a new four-year deal. Given the seeming certainty that the Spaniard would move back to his native capital this summer, it came as a true surprise to everyone to see him put pen to paper.
De Gea's first two years in Manchester were plagued with issues—particularly aerial ones—but for three seasons now he's been a pillar of consistency, blending remarkable reflexes and shot-stopping ability with big one-on-one saves. He's strong enough to claim crosses and command his area, too.
The Spaniard has to impress this year if he wants to nail down his anticipated Euro 2016 berth; he can't sulk, or he risks being frozen out by Louis van Gaal.
14. Alexis Sanchez, Fwd, Arsenal
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Alexis Sanchez has had a slow start to this season due to a Copa America fitness hangover, but the summer tournament itself taught us how special a player he can be.
Very few bring the same tenacious work-rate and high-end productivity to the table, and at times he represents an Energizer Bunny, tearing up the turf as he tries desperately to impact the game.
His maiden Premier League campaign was fantastic and the goal return was great. Now, he needs to step up in the Champions League for Arsenal and make the difference at the next level.
13. Arturo Vidal, CM, Bayern Munich
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At the peak of his powers, Arturo Vidal is fresh off the back of securing legendary status for Chile as La Roja captured their maiden Copa America this summer on home soil.
King Arturo broke the Old Lady’s heart shortly after though, seizing the opportunity to return to the Bundesliga with Bayern Munich after four seasons and as many Scudetti with Juventus.
Pep Guardiola has the 28-year-old operating in deeper areas than he has been used to in recent years. With the need to be braver on the ball as he becomes more involved with constructing attacks, this is a new challenge for Vidal.
12. Sergio Ramos, CB, Real Madrid
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Sergio Ramos successfully used Manchester United's interest as leverage for a bumper Real Madrid deal this summer, earning himself a top contract that should see him through his peak years at the club. All things considered, he’s fully earned it.
He’s developed into one of the best players in world football and ranks No. 1 among centre-backs in our list. His equalising header in the 2014 Champions League final provided los Blancos a platform to win in extra time and finally seal “La Decima.” That contribution will never be forgotten by the fanbase, and it was the sort of telling impact that has, over time, become associated with Ramos in the Real shirt.
A demon in the air with just the right measure of nasty in his play, he can play smooth or rough depending on what his team needs from him at the time.
11. Angel Di Maria, CM/Wing, Paris Saint-Germain
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Since the rankings for this list are based more on how good players are in overall terms and how they project into the season, rather than solely on their previous 12 months of work, Angel Di Maria comes out pretty high.
That's because he's one of the world's best footballers when settled and comfortable—the 2013-14 season, in which he won the Champions League with Real Madrid and put in a man-of-the-match display in the final, very much proved that.
Paris Saint-Germain bought him this summer for a cut-price £44 million, and Laurent Blanc will think he got a bargain if the Argentine rediscovers his La Liga levels. At his best he's a direct, skillful midfielder who can dictate from the centre or wreak havoc from the flank.
10. Eden Hazard, Wing, Chelsea
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This coming Champions League campaign is big for Eden Hazard. Despite his dominance in the Premier League in 2014-15, doubts remain when it comes to crowning him with the pedigree of being one of the world’s very best players.
His mesmeric dribbling and remarkable ability to create chances in tight spaces remain his two big plus points, and as long as Jose Mourinho affords him a free(ish) role to shine in this Chelsea attack—which he will—there’s no doubt he’ll tear defences down on a consistent basis.
The Belgian has all the raw tools but just needs to exhibit them on the biggest possible stages: the Champions League semi-finals and final.
9. Manuel Neuer, GK, Bayern Munich
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Did Manuel Neuer revolutionise the goalkeeping role over the past three seasons? Of course not, but he is very, very fun to watch, and few will disagree with the notion that he is the best in his position in world football.
It's possible that the very shareable videos and vines of him tearing off his line or playing on the halfway line late in games detracts from his actual ability as a goalkeeper. In addition to those eccentric traits, he's one of the finest shot-stoppers in the world and boasts reflexes to rival David De Gea and Hugo Lloris.
He is of gargantuan size and excels in one-on-one scenarios, copes superbly with aerially duels and stands strong as an ox in battle.
8. Sergio Aguero, ST, Manchester City
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Sergio Aguero grades out as our second-best central striker, and competition between him and the first-place forward here was tight. They share similar attributes and provide the same issues for defenders the world over.
Aguero’s only negative is a frustrating injury record; he’s prone to tweaks and spends too often on the sidelines. When in the side and fit, though, he’s a joy to watch: He presses, harasses, makes great runs and links play with his midfielders. There are few, if any, players in world football who can match his ruthless nature in front of goal; he gobbles up chances efficiently and without remorse.
If only he were a bit more durable, he’d be troubling our top five.
7. Gareth Bale, FWD, Real Madrid
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Gareth Bale had a rough 2014-15, but this year is his chance to shine again. Rafa Benitez has put him in a position to star, switching him inside to the No. 10, and he's already coming up with the goods to prove the manager correct—two goals and three assists in three La Liga games attest to that.
He's also doing the business for Wales, as he netted his sixth European Championship qualifying goal this campaign for the Dragons last Thursday with a bullet header reminiscent of Cristiano Ronaldo's against Roma, underlining his importance to the national side.
He's a goal machine when confident, driving forward with the ball at his feet and defeating markers with an immaculate blend of pace and power. We project him to hit 2013-14 levels this season, which should concern every defender in Europe.
6. Arjen Robben, Wing, Bayern Munich
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Following the culmination of the 2014 World Cup, a legitimate argument could have been made that Arjen Robben was the third-best player on the planet. He was that damn good.
The early parts of Bayern Munich's 2014-15 saw him decimate all in his path, utilising incredible speed—is he getting quicker with age?—and deadly shooting ability to cut inside and beat goalkeepers with regularity. The consistency he showed was stunning.
But injuries halted the train—as they so often do with the Dutchman—and his absence in the Champions League semi-finals was key. Without him, Pep Guardiola's men lacked width, pace and penetration.
Don't sleep on Robben; he's still an absolutely stunning player.
5. Andres Iniesta, CM, Barcelona
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Andres Iniesta is the antidote to statistics-based arguments. Did you know he got just one assist and zero goals in 2014-15's La Liga play? Any other midfielder managing just one assist in 19 starts would be looked down upon—especially given his forward, creative role—but no one can argue Iniesta isn't a key cog in this Barcelona side.
There's no doubt his peak years are behind him, but Luis Enrique has moved the team away from relying on his style, which explains the lack of tangible production. He shouldn't be blamed for that.
There are games, such as the 1-0 victory over Malaga before the international break, in which his undoubted class shines through. A mesmerising dribbler, passer and schemer, if the outcome is placed in his hands, he usually comes up with a defining moment.
4. Neymar, FWD, Barcelona
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Last season, Neymar exploded into form and dominated La Liga in patches. He took the pressure off Lionel Messi and shouldered some of the goalscoring load.
Playing from the left side, he was often the recipient of longer cross-field passes from Messi, and when accurately found, the Brazilian was able to square up to a full-back one-on-one and head toward goal. He scored 22 goals in La Liga from 29 starts and added 10 more in the Champions League, including the sealer in the final against Juventus.
That's a happy return, and Luis Enrique will expect more of the same. Neymar is fancied by some as the third-best player in the world, but we'd ideally like to see a little more consistency in 2015-16.
3. Luis Suarez, ST, Barcelona
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Luis Suarez's debut season for Barcelona saw him haul in a famous treble, collecting La Liga, Copa del Rey and Champions League trophies. Given how integral a part he played in all three, it's become easy to justify his enormous price tag after just 12 months in Catalonia.
The Uruguayan has given his side a more direct quality, allowing Luis Enrique to slightly alter the way in which Barcelona play. He occupies the central striking position, presses, runs in behind the opposing defence and interlinks with his fellow forwards superbly.
People often praise Karim Benzema as the perfect selfless forward for Gareth Bale and Cristiano Ronaldo, and the same can be said for Suarez alongside Neymar and Lionel Messi.
2. Cristiano Ronaldo, FWD, Real Madrid
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Coming in second is the world's second-best player, Cristiano Ronaldo. The sharper knives among you will now be able to accurately predict who landed the No. 1 slot just ahead of him in light of this news.
Ronaldo is a man obsessed by the Champions League and the scoring of goals in it. He's hell-bent on making sure he stands the highest goalscorer in the competition's history by the end of his career, and you get the impression he's going to maintain consistency in this area for years to come.
As he transitions closer and closer to a No. 9 role in Real Madrid's side, he becomes even more dangerous in the box. He's now a classic poacher and a wide forward rolled into one, boasting exceptional finishing skills, long-range shooting and a very, very powerful header.
We expect at least another 10 goals this campaign from the Portuguese as he continues to rack up the mentions of his own name in the record books.
1. Lionel Messi, FWD, Barcelona
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You're unlikely to be surprised by this, but Lionel Messi is our No. 1 player for the 2015-16 Champions League season. The three-time winner is still the man to beat in the individual stakes.
He's become slightly less integral to Barcelona's way of playing under Luis Enrique, with the wealth of the ball spread wider and the goalscoring responsibility distributed across the front line, but that doesn't diminish a wonderfully gifted player.
The Argentine's mazy dribbling skills and sublime passing range complement his finishing and set-piece skill, and it's a near-guarantee that if he takes to the pitch, he'll exit with a goal. It's truly rare that you can say that about any player.
He'll be hoping to up his figure of 77 Champions League goals this season and edge closer to the 100 mark.
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