#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.

#2 The Defender Who Loves to get Forward

Dani Alves has wowed fans for a number of years. Whether it be a tantalizing, rocket of a free kick or a stupid neck warmer, Alves continues to be quite the wing back (or whatever they call that position these days). The Brazilian has spent the better part of his career plying his trade in the Spanish Primera. Following a successful stint at in his homeland, Dani ventured across the Atlantic to Sevilla and eventually found a home at his current club, Barcelona. Dani Alves is a phenomenal player, one that is truly a joy to watch. Look for him to stop the opposing attack, while marauding forward as Barcelona try to capture the league title and progress through the Champion's League.

#1 The Best Current Goalkeeper

I have a soft spot for a guy that I grew up watching between the sticks. Iker Casillas is a very polarizing figure in the football world. Some feel that he is underserving of his lofty status, however many believe he is currently the best goalkeeper in the world. Playing for the reigning World Cup champions, Iker deservedly earned the right to don the title of the world's number 1 goalkeeper.That being said, at the time of this article, his Real Madrid squad are sitting second in the league, nipping at the heals of bitter rivals Barcelona. In addition to amazing us with his ability on the field, Casillas continues to impress us off the field by consistently being linked with some of the most attractive women in the world! Iker Casillas is currently the best on the globe and at the tender age of 29, he will surely continue to be an elite shot stopper well into the future.