#11 The Big Swede

Zlatan Ibrahimovic is one of the most technically gifted strikers in the world. Blessed with amazing touch and remarkable physique, this Swedish international has dominated world football for quite some time. Though contracted to Barcelona, Zlatan plies his trade for AC Milan because of a loan deal. Ibrahimovic was instrumental in the Milan club's first place finish in the Serie A. With an unsure future ahead, it will be intriguing to see if the Swede ends up in England, Italy or back to Spain.

#10 The Dutch Playmaker

Originally I was going to put Lionel Messi down in this spot, however I realized that there are just far too many Barcelona players! That being said, I thought that Wesley Sneijder should have won FIFA Player of the Year last year for his memorable performances for both club and country. Sneijder hails from the Netherlands where he honed his skills at Ajax. Following a stop in Madrid, he eventually landed at Inter Milan where he won the Champion's League. In addition, he lead his team to the World Cup Final in 2010. Every time this player touches the ball, the opposing team cringes. Wesley can place an 80 yard pass on a dime. Sneijder is also renowned for his vision. These traits, coupled with the Dutchman's fine ability to shoot from distance, makes him one of the world's most dangerous midfielders. Wesley Sneijder is truly a pleasure to watch, one that will surely awe fans for years to come.

#9 The Defender's Nightmare

Samuel Eto'o has been a force in European football for the past seven years. His aggressive attitude, deft touch, and powerful shot have served the likes of Barcelona and Inter Milan well over his career. In addition to winning numerous league titles and Champion's League trophies, Eto'o is the captain of his native Cameroon. He has been named African Player of the Year on four occasions. Samuel is a constant force to be reckoned with, which leads opposing defenders to shake in their boots. Samuel Eto'o will surely be in the hunt to lead Serie A scorers come year's end and don't be surprised to find him on the score sheet for Inter Milan in their next Champion's League game.

#8 Stevie G

Steven Gerrard is one of the best English players to ever don the Liverpool shirt. He is so incredible that even the soccer god himself, Zinedine Zidane, considers Stevie G one of the best footballers in the world. Gerrard is an intriguing individual because he has played with the same club, Liverpool FC, since signing his youth contract. One characteristic of his game that is truly remarkable is his ability to shoot from distance. Along with his physical skill set, Gerrard has an uncanny ability to lead by example. Now at age 30, the Liverpool captain has won it all, except the English Premier League. Unfortunately for him, it does not appear that this is the year he gets his hands on a league medal. Despite Liverpool's recent struggles in the league, Stevie has thrived individually in Merseyside and with the Three Lions. Look for him to dazzle many and continue to succeed for the Reds in coming years!

#7 The Key to Success

With the addition of David Villa, the rich have gotten richer and the best have gotten better. Over the last two and a half seasons, Barcelona has been far and away the best team in the world. Now that Valencia's prized striker David Villa has joined them they are deeper and better than ever. His addition allowed Barca to ship malcontent Ibrahimovic to AC Milan. Ibrahimovic had fallen out of favor with the Catalan club thanks to his inconsistent effort. Effort has never been a problem for Villa. He lacks the size of a target man like Ibrahimovic, and doesn't have the speed of Messi, or even Fernando Torres. What he does have is the relentlessness needed to find space in front of opponents' back lines. He's always moving, searching out the best position on the field. It's therefore no surprise that he already has 20 goals in only 33 matches with Barca. He's also shown himself to be an excellent distributor of the ball as well, with 8 assists overall this season as well. Villa has fit in perfectly at Barcelona, and his addition is one of the primary reasons why Leo Messi is having a season for the ages. They play extremely well together, as neither is afraid to give the ball up. The best proof of their combined abilities are that holding them to one goal combined in the Champions League last week was seen by Arsenal as a great success. For the Gunners sake, I hope they're that successful again on March 8 at Camp Nou.

#6 The X Man

Xavi has been an integral part to Barcelona's success over the last handful of years. He is the maestro that pulls the strings and threads the passes that open opposing defenses. This Spaniard is widely regarded as one of the best players on the planet. Xavi may be little in stature but his uncanny vision and technique well make up for his lack of size. Though leading Barcelona to numerous medals, Xavi's greatest triumph is undoubtedly winning the World Cup. He is always a joy to watch and constantly receives praise from friends and foes alike. Look for Xavi and Barcelona to continue to dominate across Europe as the season continues.

#5 The Old Guard

Rio Ferdinand has been a staple of the English Premier League for over 10 years. Originally purchased for a record fee, Ferdinand honed his defensive skills at Leeds. Shortly thereafter, following financial turmoil, Leeds was forced to sell Rio to his current home, Manchester United. Since this record breaking transfer, United and Ferdinand have enjoyed an extremely successful relationship. This relationship has proved amazing for both parties. The Red Devils and the Englishman have won numerous titles, the most impressive being a Champion's League medal, as well as four Premier League titles. Rio Ferdinand has been a class act on the field for some time and will surely look to continue his winning ways with Manchester United well into the future.

#4 Captain Fantastic

Francesc Fabregas is one of the most popular players in the world. Hailing from Spain, the 23 year old is undoubtedly the heartbeat of Arsenal. Cesc as he is a affectionately called, is constantly in the spotlight. Whether leading his team to victory or never ending speculation over his imminent transfer to Barcelona, Fabregas continues to be at the forefront of attention in North London. He recently won the World Cup with the Spanish National team and is surely looking to win some silverware at the Emirates. With Arsenal playing Barcelona in the Champion's League this month, all eyes will be on the Gunner's captain in what will certainly be a tantalizing clash of flowing football.

#3 The Little Man With a Big Mouth

Patrice Evra continues to amaze spectators with his uncanny ability to make plays at both ends of the field. The French left back often finds himself in the papers for just about everything but his play. Evra is not afraid to let he world know exactly how he feels. Patrice famously led a mutiny in the latest World Cup as France went crashing out in complete embarrassment. For Manchester United, he has been a mainstay in the starting lineup for years. Patrice Evra's service to United and his excellent skill set make this man one of the world's best defenders.