Top 100 Players In World Football 2014/15 With Messi And Ronaldo Fighting For Top Spot Once Again What would you change about this list of the top 100 players in world football....100) Edin Dzeko (Manchester City)The 28-year-old Bosnian is a reliable goalscorer, and has scored a minimum of 15 goals-per-season for the last six years. He netted 26 in all competitions for Manchester City last season, a crucial factor in his clubs success.99) Nemanja Vidic (Inter Milan)The 32-year-old Serbian is not the formidable centre-back he once was, but he is still an excellent player that should thrive in Serie A with Inter Milan next season, following nine exceptional years with Manchester United.98) Leighton Baines (Everton)Despite a disappointing showing at this summers World Cup, the Everton left-back has established himself as one of the best players in his position in recent years, with the 29-year-old forcing Ashley Cole out of the England team.97) Raheem Sterling (Liverpool)Still only 19-years-old, the Liverpool and England winger is one of the most exciting young players in the world. Already a vital component for both club and country, if he continues to improve at the rate he has, then he will be an incredible star in the near future.96) Daniele De Rossi (Roma)The 31-year-old was back to somewhere near his best last year as he helped lead Roma to a surprising second place finish in Serie A. After over 400 club games and almost 100 international caps, he still deserves to be viewed among the best holding midfielder in the world.95) Francesco Totti (Roma)He may be approaching 38-years-old, but the legendary Italian will relish the chance for one last go at Champions League football next year, after 22 years, 707 games and 290 goals with his beloved Roma.94) Stefan Kiessling (Bayer Leverkusen)The 30-year-old German is often overlooked when people think of world class strikers, but Bayer Leverkusens talisman continues to score for fun in the Bundesliga, having scored 111 league goals since joining the club in 2006.93) Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)The 28-year-old forward may not be everyones favourite player, but 158 league goals in 307 games for Manchester United, in addition to 40 goals in 95 games for England, prove what an exceptional talent he is.92) Dani Alves (Barcelona)The 31-year-old Brazilian may have had a World Cup to forget, but he is still regarded as one of the best attacking full-backs in the world, and is likely to remain one of the first names on the team sheet for Barcelona.91) John Terry (Chelsea)The 33-year-old is in the twilight years of his career, but has done little to suggest that he should not still be regarded as one of the most accomplished defenders in the world. The Chelsea man still has a couple of good years in him.90) Mario Gomez (Fiorentina) The 29-year-old German was regarded as one of the finest strikers in the world two years ago, when he was scoring for fun with Bayern Munich. But after an injury plagued start to life with Fiorentina and being left out of the German World Cup team, he needs to get back to his best.89) Alvaro Negredo (Manchester City)The Beast enjoyed a fantastic start to life with Manchester City, although his poor form towards the end of the season cost him a place in the Spanish World Cup squad. Once he has recovered from a worrying pre-season injury, he will hope to hit the ground running in 2014-15.88) Henrikh Mkhitaryan (Borussia Dortmund)The impressive Armenian was brought into a talented Borussia Dortmund team last summer, but has not looked out of place, and Liverpool will be cursing their luck after narrowly missing out on the player in 2013.87) Ezequiel Lavezzi (PSG)The talented Argentine winger has endured a difficult time of late at PSG, and could be tempted to force his way out of the club this summer if he cannot be guaranteed first-team football. However, he remains a world class talent.86) Keisuke Honda (AC Milan)The golden boy of Japanese and Asian football, the 28-year-old finally got his dream move to AC Milan in January of this year, and has impressed in spells so far. The San Siro crowd will expect more this year.85) Kevin Strootman (Roma)Despite a lengthy spell out injured, the 24-year-old remains one of the most exciting midfield players in the world. Roma will be desperate to keep hold of their star man this summer, especially with a healthy interest being maintained by Manchester United.84) Petr Cech (Chelsea)The Chelsea goalkeeper may find himself out of a job in the near future, in regards to being the Blues number one goalkeeper, but the Czech international still remains one of the best stoppers in the world.83) Jackson Martinez (Porto) The 27-year-old Colombian has done an excellent job of filling the void left by Portos previous striking talents, including Radamel Falcao, scoring 46 goals in 60 league games since joining in 2012.82) Juan Cuadrado (Fiorentina)Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with the 26-year-old Colombian, who was one of his countrys stand-out players at this summers World Cup.81) Ricardo Rodriguez (Wolfsburg) He may only be 21, but he has already been capped 22 times by Switzerland, and played an impressive 75 games in the Bundesliga. This left-back is going to become one of the most revered defenders in world football.80) Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)He may be past his best, but the Liverpool captain remains an inspirational figure at Anfield, who was vital to the Reds successful season last year, when he was only outscored by Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge.79) Antoine Griezmann (Real Sociedad)Atletico Madrid are believed to be leading the chase to sign this talented French winger, who was one of the most impressive young players at this summers World Cup. His exploits have also attracted interest from Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham.78) Julian Draxler (Schalke)One of the best young midfielders in the world, he came extremely close to a big-money move to Arsenal in January, before eventually electing to stay with Schalke. A World Cup winner, and just 20-years-old.77) Stephan El Shaarawy (AC Milan)Endured a difficult season last year, as injury and form restricted his performances for AC Milan. Nonetheless, the spiky haired Italian is still only 21-years-old, and could yet prove himself one of the best in the world.76) Isco (Real Madrid)Manchester City and Liverpool have been linked with sensational moves for this 22-year-old midfielder, who may struggle to get into Real Madrids team next year - which says it all! His exploits at former-club Malaga convinced them to retire his shirt number.75) Mehdi Benatia (Roma)The 27-year-old Moroccan was a vital component in Romas excellent season last year, and has attracted interest from both Chelsea and Manchester City during the summer break.74) Andre Schurrle (Chelsea)May not be an automatic choice for club and country, but has also proved himself more than capable for delivering for both on the big stage. At just 23-years-old he could still develop into a fantastic all-round player.73) Blaise Matuidi (PSG)A solid midfielder for both club and country, the 27-year-old Frenchman has seen his stock steadily rising in recent years, and he is now viewed as an exceptional player.72) David Luiz (PSG)An unconventional defender who can so often be great, but yet also has the ability to frustrate and disappoint. He has contributed to both success and failure for club and country in recent years.71) Marquinhos (PSG)A talented young defender who, at just 20-years-old, is on the verge of becoming one of the worlds greatest defenders. Already capped by Brazil and linked with a huge move to Barcelona, this could be a big year for this young player.70) Eliaquim Mangala (Porto)The Manchester City bound defender has been a rock at the heart of Portos defence in recent times, and at just 23 has all the hallmarks of developing into a truly world class player.69) Arda Turan (Atletico Madrid)The 27-year-old Turkish winger has been watched by a number of Premier League clubs in recent years, and he showed why with his excellent performances last season - helping Atletico to the La Liga title and the Champions League final.68) Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)The Arsenal defender has developed into an excellent player over a recent years and is now one of the first names on the team sheet for both club and country. At 28-years-old he is at the peak of his powers.67) Pablo Zabaleta (Manchester City)The Manchester City full-back will have to fight for his place next season following the arrival of Bacary Sagna, but its hard to believe the Premier League champions wont find room for one of their most consistent performers.66) Marco Verratti (PSG)The 21-year-old midfielder is already first choice for PSG and a regular for Italy, the possibilities are virtually endless for this exciting young talent, who could be about to have a big year.65) Daniel Sturrdige (Liverpool)The Liverpool and England striker has become one of the best striking talents in the country over the last 18 months, and will hope to increase his reputation yet further following the departure of striker partner Luis Suarez.64) Branislav Ivanovic (Chelsea)One of the most reliable and consistent defenders in the Premier League, versatile in his ability to play at both centre back and right back, and a threat at set-pieces, where would Chelsea be without their big Serbian?63) Aaron Ramsey (Arsenal)It was a breakthrough year for the young Welsh midfielder in 2013-14, who proved himself to be one of the best players in the Premier League with consistently improving performances. Another year like last season could take him to a whole new level.62) Ivan Rakitic (Barcelona)The dynamic Croatian proved himself to be one of the very best midfielders in the world as he almost single-handedly dragged Sevilla to their Europa League triumph, earning him a big-money move to Barcelona.61) Xherdan Shaqiri (Bayern Munich)This exciting winger became the first player to score a left-footed World Cup hat-trick, when he netted three times against Honduras this summer. The fact that he struggles to get in Munichs team proves how incredible their squad is.60) Marek Hamsik (Napoli)The 27-year-old Slovakian has been a faithful servant to Napoli, who he joined in 2007, despite much interest from several European giants. His iconic hair matches his flamboyant style of play.59) Miralem Pjanic (Roma)Another Roma player who makes the list, the 24-year-old Bosnian is another wanted man this summer, but looks set to remain faithful to the Italian team that he joined from Lyon in 2011.58) Javi Martinez (Bayern Munich)Is perhaps yet to replicate his Athletic Bilbao form for Bayern Munich, but the 25-year-old is still one of the very best holding midfielder in the world, with his international career set to blossom now that the likes of Xabi Alonso and Xavi are nearing international retirement.57) Gonzalo Higuain (Napoli)The Argentine striker has been a consistent goalscorer throughout his career, and while he can be frustrating at times, he is still one of the best finishers in the world.56) Koke (Atletico Madrid)Another exceptional midfielder off the Spanish production line, many believe the 22-year-old will be the long term successor to Xavi Hernandez for his country, while he is already a crucial player for Atletico Madrid.55) Mario Mandzukic (Atletico Madrid)The big Croatian has been a consistent goalscorer for Bayern Munich, even when used in a bit-part role. He should thrive at Atletico Madrid, where he will replace the departed Diego Costa.54) Karim Benzema (Real Madrid)Another big name striker who does flatter to deceive on occasion, but whose goal-scoring record for both club and country prove his exceptional talent.53) Hugo Lloris (Tottenham Hotspur)The Tottenham and France goalkeeper is among the very best stoppers in the world, and Spurs will be desperate to hang onto him this summer.52) Giorgio Chiellini (Juventus)The ferocious Italian defender has been one of the most consistent players in Serie A in recent years, and has been an integral part of Juventus three consecutive titles.51) Ilkay Gundogan (Borussia Dortmund)The 23-year-old German midfielder has had some injury troubles recently, but was the heartbeat of Borussia Dortmunds title winning team in 2012-13, and still has many good years in front of him.50) Gerard Pique (Barcelona)The Barcelona defender has seen his form wain in recent years, but he is still among the very best defenders in world football, as well as being an automatic choice for both club and country.49) Diego Costa (Chelsea)Chelseas latest big-money striker had an exceptional year with Atletico Madrid, and the Blues will be desperate to see him continue that form into next season. The 25-year-old netted 36 goals during his last campaign.48) Juan Mata (Manchester United)The talented Spaniard has impressed for every club hes played for - twice Chelseas player of the year, the 26-year-old made an impressive start to life at Old Trafford, solidifying his reputation as one of the worlds best.47) Gianluigi Buffon (Juventus)The legendary Italian goalkeeper may not be quite as good as he once was, but the 36-year-old who has been capped 142 times by his country, is still one of very best shot stoppers in the world.46) Edinson Cavani (PSG)The 27-year-old Uruguayan couldnt stop scoring for Napoli, and while he had a decent first year with PSG, he was left frustrated at playing second fiddle to Zlatan Ibrahimovic from the right wing, and he could yet move on this summer.45) Javier Mascherano (Barcelona)Arguably the best player at this summers World Cup, the 30-year-old Argentine has been a victim of being played in the wrong position over the last year with Barcelona. When played as a holding midfielder he is one of the very best in the world.44) Cesc Fabregas (Chelsea)Another big-name arrival at Stamford Bridge this summer, the former Arsenal and Barcelona star remains one of the most talented midfielders in the world, with almost everyone expecting him to excel in Chelsea colours next season.43) David Silva (Manchester City)The talented Spaniard has been one of the most vital elements to Manchester Citys success in recent years. Another member of the golden Valencia team that also included Juan Mata and David Villa.42) David Alaba (Bayern Munich)The 22-year-old Austrian is one of the finest full-backs in the world, and will continue to progress alongside the experienced Bayern stalwarts like Schweinsteiger and Lahm.41) Sergio Busquets (Barcelona)He may come with something of a controversial reputation, and he may not be as attractive to watch as the Messis and Iniestas of the Barcelona team, but he has been a vital component of their success in the last six years.40) Radamel Falcao (Monaco)The big Colombian missed almost the entire of last season through injury, including the World Cup, which his decision to join Monaco - rather than one of the big European giants - have restricted his ascent to true greatness.39) Sergio Aguero (Manchester City)Another injury prone forward who, on his day, can be virtually unstoppable. The Manchester City striker has a formidable game-goal ratio, but has not played enough games over the last 18 months to consolidate his world class reputation.38) Xabi Alonso (Real Madrid)The iconic Liverpool, Real Madrid and Spain midfielder is one of the great midfielders of the 21st century, having helped both clubs to win the Champions League as well as a host of other prizes.37) Oscar (Chelsea)The 22-year-old Brazilian is already a key player for both club and country, and has the potential to develop into one of the best players in the world. It will be interesting to see whether the disappointment of the summers World Cup has an effect on his form.36) Mario Balotelli (AC Milan)The controversial Italian striker has his doubters, but his goal record for current club AC Milan, as well as former employers Manchester City and Inter Milan cannot be argued with - when on form he is almost impossible to keep quiet.35) Paul Pogba (Juventus)The former Manchester United youngster has emerged as a world class talent since leaving England for Juventus, helping guide the Italian giants to consecutive titles and forcing himself into Frances starting line-up.34) Raphael Varane (Real Madrid)The young French defender is getting plenty of attention these days. He has impressed massively for Real Madrid, and at just 21-years-old he has the ability to be an all time great for club and country.33) Xavi Hernandez (Barcelona)The legendary Spanish midfielder is now 34-years-old, and it looks like age is finally starting to catch-up on the iconic playmaker. However, he is still fully deserving of a place in the top 100 players in world football, and will hope that he has at least one more great year in him.32) Toni Kroos (Real Madrid)Real Madrids new signing as already won a commendable collection of honours with both Bayner Munich and Germany, and the 24-year-old will be hoping to continue that form with the European Champions.31) Mario Gotze (Bayern Munich)The man who won the World Cup for Germany, he may not have had the perfect first season at Bayern Munich, but at just 22-years-of-age he still has plenty of time to grow into his role as one of the best midfield players in the world.30) Thibaut Courtois (Chelsea)The Chelsea stopper has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world over the last three years, winning multiple awards during his loan spells with Atletico Madrid. Now back at Stamford Bridge, he will hope to prove himself at the Blues number one.29) Angel di Maria (Real Madrid)The Real Madrid and Argentina winger has been linked with a move away from the European Champions this summer, following the arrivals of Toni Kroos and James Rodriguez. Manchester United and PSG would be delighted to take the £45m rated winger.28) Robert Lewandowski (Bayern Munich)The 25-year-old Polish striker, coming off the back of four excellent years for former club Borussia Dortmund, could well prove the vital component for helping Bayern Munich reach a third Champions League final in four years.27) Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)One of the stars of Real Madrids Champions League triumph, the hot-headed Spanish defender who can play as both a right back and a central defender, is still a vital player for both club and country.26) Mesut Ozil (Arsenal)Arsenal fans will expect a little more from their German playmaker this coming season, having made him their record signing when they paid £42.5m for him from Real Madrid last summer. The World Cup winner should certainly come in full of confidence.25) Luka Modric (Real Madrid)The former Tottenham midfielder took his time to settle at Real Madrid, but became one of their most vital players last season, helping them to their Champions League triumph. Still more to come from this 28-year-old Croatian.24) Marco Reus (Borussia Dortmund)The exciting Borussia Dortmund winger may have missed the latter stages of last season, as well as the World Cup, through injury, but that has not stopped Liverpool fans cracing the Germans signature this summer.23) Vincent Kompany (Manchester City)The most consistent defender in the Premier League over the last three years - when he plays, City play well, and its no surprise that when he spend much of the 2012-13 season sidelined through injury, his teams performances dropped off accordingly.22) Alexis Sanchez (Arsenal)The exciting Chilean is the latest arrival at the Emirates Stadium, and after successful spells in Italy and Spain, the Arsenal fans will be desperate to see their new £35m man in action.21) Neymar (Barcelona)The golden boy of this current crop of Brazilian stars, Neymar is not yet a fully developed world class player, but his talismanic effect on his international team was all too clear to see in this summers World Cup semi-final.20) Andrea Pirlo (Juventus)The ageless Italian midfielder continues to be a vital player for both club and country, helping Juventus win consecutive Serie A titles, and Italy reach the final of Euro 2012 and finish third in the Confederations Cup.19) Mats Hummels (Borussia Dortmund)One of the finest defenders in world football, the German World Cup winner has both Barcelona and Manchester United hopefully watching his availability. The 25-year-old is only going to get better.18) Bastian Schweinsteiger (Bayern Munich)The German midfielder was one of the stand-out players of the World Cup final this summer, and deserved to get his hands on that famous trophy as much as anyone. There is little this 29-year-old has not achieved.17) Thomas Muller (Bayern Munich)Ten World Cup goals in two tournaments, as well as a whole host on honours for club and country, this versatile attacker is renowned as one of the best players in the world, and Munich moved quickly to tie him down to a new contract earlier this year.16) Eden Hazard (Chelsea)Th Belgian star has spoken of his desire to match the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, and while he has not yet hit those heights he his still one of the most talented players in the world.15) Arturo Vidal (Juventus)The 27-year-old Chilean has been in a transfer tug of war this year, as Manchester United desperately attempt to lure him away from Juventus. He showed at the World Cup why he is so highly rated.14) Philipp Lahm (Bayern Munich)One of the best full-backs ever, the 30-year-old German captain finally lifted the World Cup trophy earlier this summer. After 13 years with Bayern Munich, he has won almost everything that is on offer to him.13) Andres Iniesta (Barcelona)One of the greatest midfielders ever, and the hero of the 2010 World Cup final, but like his Barcelona midfield partner Xavi, his best years are probably behind him. Still, at 30-years-old, he still has time left at the top level.12) James Rodriguez (Real Madrid)The star player and golden boot winner of this summers World Cup, six goals in five game for Colombia convinced Real Madrid to pay Monaco over £70m for his services, and the 23-year-old will be anxious to deliver.11) Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich)While he was cruelly denied a chance to shine at this summers World Cup due to injury, he remains a key part of Bayern Munichs success in recent years, and will look to continue that record next season.10) Yaya Toure (Manchester City)The powerful Ivorian is arguably the greatest player an African nation has ever produced. Successful with Barcelona before his time with Manchester City, the 31-year-old has become an iconic figure at the Etihad Stadium.9) Robin van Persie (Manchester United)The Dutchman has become one of the most feared strikers in world football in recent years, scoring freely for Arsenal, Manchester United and the Netherlands. He will be hoping to guide his club side back into title contention this coming season.8) Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich)Not only the best goalkeeper in the world, but among the best goalkeepers of all time - the 28-year-old still has many years left at the top level, and could establish himself as a legendary figure over the next decade.7) Thiago Silva (PSG)Despite Brazils World Cup disappointment, the 29-year-old is still the most formidable defender in world football. He will be hoping to guide PSG to further success next season.6) Zlatan Ibrahimovic (PSG)The iconic Swedish striker may not have graced this summers World Cup, but he is still regarded as one of the very best players in the world. He may not always be the most elegant, but his formidable goal-scoring record for every club that he has played for speaks for itself.5) Gareth Bale (Real Madrid)The flying Welshman fully justified his world record transfer fee last summer as he scored crucial goals for Real Madrid in both the Spanish Cup final and the Champions League final. The 25-year-old former Tottenham forward could become an all time great.4) Arjen Robben (Bayern Munich)The every exceptional Dutchman proved his quality at this summers World Cup, and showed that age is only a number, with the former Chelsea and Real Madrid winger still getting better and better at the age of 30.3) Luis Suarez (Barcelona)The controversial Uruguayan may not have the most lovable reputation, but there are a few football fans on the planet that can deny that he is one of the most talented strikers in the world. He netted 31 Premier League goals for Liverpool last season before sealing a move to Barcelona.2) Lionel Messi (Barcelona)As always, some will be pleased, and some will be disappointed with Messis placing at number two, but taking into account a below-par season (by his incredibly high standards), the Argentine wizard misses out on top spot on this occasion.1) Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)That honour goes instead to the World Player of the Year, the 29-year-old Portuguese forward who has scored an astonishing 177 goals in 165 league games for Real Madrid since joining from Manchester United in 2009.
Posted on: Mon, 28 Jul 2014 12:38:36 +0000