In some ways, FIFA's highest rated players list means nothing, but in so many other ways, it means everything. If two team-mates ever need to decide who the better player is, what better judicator than the video game that makes a living out of studying each facet of their technique, fitness and ability? Every year, the FIFA top 20 causes consternation, controversy and quibbles amongst avid football supporters, as they state their case for the inclusion of their club's star men. This year, there have certainly been some surprise omissions, and some huge jumpers from last term's editions. There will be sure to be sure quarrels and arguments about certain choices, but one thing is for certain - FIFA users will have some fun twiddling their joysticks to control these great players, as they are fine-tuned to within a tee of the real thing.
20. Vincent Kompany - 86
FIFA 14 Rank: 26th
Rising six places from last year's edition, Vincent Kompany is still held in very high esteem by the powers that by at EA. Having led Manchester City to their second Premier League triumph, he also marshalled Belgium to a creditable quarter-final, where they dragged Argentina to extra-time. At 28 years old, Kompany has entered the prime of his career, and has established himself as one of the most rock-solid and composed defenders in the business. And to think he was one player the Citizens didn't have to spend the world to acquire.
19. Robert Lewandowski - 87
FIFA 14 Rank: 35th
The Polish striker's agent must have been straight on the phone to the lab technicians at EA Sports last summer upon the release of FIFA 14, such was the lowly position of the Champions League runner-up. Having notched four goals against Real Madrid in a Champions League semi-final, in a stunning 36-goal season, the Borussia Dortmund hitman was slapped with a 35th rating on the FIFA 14 food chain, languishing behind the likes of Gerard Pique and Giorgio Chiellini. Last season, Lewandowski produced a slightly lesser season, mustering just 28 goals as Jurgen Klopp's side failed to replicate their 12/13 heroics. Without sounding like a cynic however, the former Lech Poznan striker will be spearheading Pep Guardiola's immensely talented Bayern Munich unit next season. Perhaps that was the reason for the sudden boost in recognition from the EA Sports architects?