Champions League: Top 10 Player Rankings - ESPN
The Champions League is the pinnacle of club football, and every season, the competition throws up some incredible performances. With the 2023/24 season underway, ESPN has released its ranking of the top 10 players in the competition, based on their performances in the group stage.
Here are the top 10 players according to ESPN:
1. Erling Haaland (Manchester City)
Haaland's dominance in the Champions League is undeniable. He's currently the competition's top scorer with 10 goals, and his clinical finishing and physical presence make him a nightmare for any defender. Haaland has been directly involved in 65% of City's goals in the competition, showcasing his exceptional impact on the pitch.
2. Kylian Mbappé (Paris Saint-Germain)
Mbappé continues to be a force of nature, with his blistering speed and clinical finishing making him a constant threat. He has scored 6 goals in the group stage and is PSG's main attacking weapon.
3. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)
The English midfielder has seamlessly adapted to life in Madrid, showcasing his remarkable passing range, tackling prowess, and goal-scoring ability. He's already established himself as a key player for Real Madrid and is a vital cog in their midfield engine.
4. Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)
De Bruyne is the creative maestro in Manchester City's midfield. His vision, passing accuracy, and playmaking abilities are second to none. He's already recorded 3 assists in the Champions League and is a constant threat to opposing defenses.
5. Lionel Messi (Inter Miami CF)
Despite a move to Major League Soccer, Messi remains a force to be reckoned with. He has scored 4 goals in the group stage and provided 2 assists for Inter Miami. His footballing genius and unparalleled creativity are still evident on the biggest stage.
6. Vinicius Jr. (Real Madrid)
The Brazilian winger has established himself as one of the most exciting players in the world. His explosive pace, dribbling skills, and ability to score goals make him a constant menace to opposition defenses.
7. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Salah's impact on the Champions League is well documented. He is a proven goalscorer, with his dribbling ability, clinical finishing, and ability to create chances making him one of the most feared attackers in the competition.
8. Rodri (Manchester City)
Rodri is the anchor of Manchester City's midfield. His defensive solidity, positional awareness, and passing range make him a key player for Pep Guardiola's side. He is crucial in providing stability and control to the midfield.
9. Federico Chiesa (Juventus)
Chiesa has returned from injury with renewed vigor. His speed, dribbling, and clinical finishing have made him a vital part of Juventus' attack. He is a key player in Juventus' attempt to progress in the Champions League.
10. Rafael Leão (AC Milan)
Leão has been a revelation for AC Milan. His pace, dribbling, and ability to score goals make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. He is a key part of Milan's attack and has been instrumental in their Champions League campaign.
Conclusion
The Champions League is filled with incredible talent, and this ranking reflects the exceptional performances of these top players. As the competition progresses, we can expect to see even more thrilling displays from these stars as they strive for the ultimate glory in European club football.
