#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.

#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.

#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.

#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.

Arsenal at Barcelona

Well, well, well karma seems to be heading in Arsenal's direction after all... With the Gunners going down 2-nil to Barcelona early in the second half, a deflated Arsenal squad appeared to be all but done for. Then Theo Walcott provided a glimmer of hope by pulling one back. Soon thereafter, Fabregas earned a penalty for the home team. However, in doing so, the talismanic skipper unfortunately suffered a broken leg. He heroically scored thanks to a great deal of adrenaline pumping through his veins. Arsenal left the Emirate with their heads held high. An even scoreline at 2 left the lads with the slightest bit of optimism heading into the weekend. As time was ticking down against an inspired Hull City team, Arsenal looked to have been set for a disappointing draw. Deep into stoppage time a miracle header from the Great Dane, Nicklas Bendtner, put the Gunners on top and kept them in the Premier League title race. This late winner coupled with the news that Ibrahimovic is out of the Tuesday fixture, surely gives Arsenal a sense of momentum and hope heading into the Nou Camp in a few day's time. Karma and Lady Luck might just be going to Spain with them.