POSITION: CB - PACE: 73 - DRIBBLING: 67 - SHOOTING: 56 - DEFENDING: 87 - PASSING: 69 - PHYSICAL: 81 Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany is the best defender in the Premier League by quite a distance, and his ranking as the top defender from the English league is warranted. He skippered City to their second Premier League title last season and his commanding presence translates into the new game. Kompany's physical rating and speed make him a solid choice for FUT players with a Premier League squad.
19. Robert Lewandowski - Bayern Munich (87)
POSITION: ST - PACE: 81 - DRIBBLING: 85 - SHOOTING: 84 - DEFENDING: 39 - PASSING: 74 - PHYSICAL: 78 Robert Lewandowski has followed Mario Gotze across the divide in the Bundesliga this summer, joining Bayern Munich from Borussia Dortmund on a free transfer. The Polish striker is one of the most potent front men in the world and his goal tally is sure to only increase at his new club - likely on FIFA 15 too.
18. Luka ModriĀ - Real Madrid (87)
POSITION: CM - PACE: 76 - DRIBBLING: 89 - SHOOTING: 74 - DEFENDING: 71 - PASSING: 85 - PHYSICAL: 70 There were calls for former Tottenham midfielder Luka Modric to be crowned Player of the Year in Spain last season, such were his performances in Real Madrid's midfield. The Croatian star was instrumental in taking Real to the Champions League final after showing himself to be huge creative force for the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale. Modric's rating has rightfully improved this year, and there's no argument that he is one of the best midfielders in Europe.
17. David Silva - Manchester City (87)
POSITION: LM - PACE: 76 - DRIBBLING: 89 - SHOOTING: 77 - DEFENDING: 33 - PASSING: 86 - PHYSICAL: 57 Another Manchester City player, and surprise, surprise, another weakened card. David Silva is hitting the peak of his powers in blue these days and his 16 assists last season make the Spaniard a premier player in FIFA's attacking stakes - even if his ranking has dropped from an 88. With the ability to pick out the toughest of passes and wriggle through small gaps maintained, Silva won't be too hurt by this.
16. Thiago Silva - Paris Saint Germain (87)
POSITION: CB - PACE: 78 - DRIBBLING: 72 - SHOOTING: 57 - DEFENDING: 90 - PASSING: 72 - PHYSICAL: 80 Thiago Silva is on par the best centre half in the world, even though his World Cup showings were somewhat poor earlier this year. He is amongst the most assured players on the planet and offers a secure all-round defensive package - full of pace and power - while most of the time he's as solid as a rock. The Brazilian boasts similar attributes to last year's edition.
Football writer (predominantly) with work previously published by Mail Online, Manchester Evening News, Daily Mirror, USA Today and Chelsea FC. Regular contributor for Huffington Post, who holds tempestuous relationships with WWE and FIFA 15.
