Without doubt the most controversial player to have found himself featured on this list, Messi finds himself in the #1 spot not because he is the player most in need of a downgrade but rather because it is such a shock to see the Argentine finding himself in this position. For so many years now Messi has been the franchises poster boy, consistently being rated as being the best active player in the world. This years performance however which is, after all, what FIFA ratings should be based on has seen Messi find himself hidden in the shadow of his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo (rated 92). We wouldnt for one minute suggest that Messi should be downgraded any more than a point-or-two but it should definitely be reflected that he has had an uncharacteristically quiet season and that Ronaldo is currently the top-dog. This being said, a strong World Cup performance leading his team to the Semis or further could be all it takes to revive Messi football is a truly unpredictable enterprise.
Hailing from South East London, Sam Heard is an aspiring writer and recent graduate from the University of Warwick. Sam's favourite things include energy drinks, late nights spent watching the UFC with his girlfriend and annihilating his friends at FIFA.
