FIFA World Cup: Power Ranking of the Top Players in Qatar

Here is a list of ten players from eight nations and six clubs

10. Vinicius Junior, Brazil

After he turned 18, Vinicius Jr. was signed by Real Madrid. He entered the spotlight in the 21-22 campaign, where a new range of his capacity unravelled. 

In contrast to the six goals and seven assists, he secured the year before, his whopping 22 goals and 20 assists in 21-22 led his team to La Liga and the UEFA Champions League victories. 

If he can create and push into space down the left, Brazil's group-stage contenders will have a tough time.

9. Luka Modrić, Croatia

The 37-year-old Croatian midfielder Luka Modric holds his own among young French midfield stars Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni. He secured five goals and two assists over more than 1000 minutes of game time.

Luka Modric is better at reading a game than anyone else in the World Cup. Although they might fail to recreate the 2018 World Cup final in Russia this time, Luka Modric's leadership could increase their chances.

8. Harry Kane, England

Tottenham Hotspur's striker Harry Kane is the captain of the Three Lions in Qatar. In 20 matches this season, Harry Kane netted 12 goals and three assists.

This year, he might face more pressure due to England's latest injury encounters that witnessed Reece James, Ben Chilwell, and Kyle Walker get sidelined. 

However, he has an undisputed knack for creating turnovers when needed, so England might advance to the knockout stages. 

7. Robert Lewandowski, Poland

Robert Lewandowski, known for his quality movement inside the penalty box, moved from Bayern Munich to Barcelona, but the 34-year-old netted 18 goals in just 19 matches, with four assists under his belt. It is yet to be seen if he can work his magic against Argentina, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia.

6. Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal

After a turbulent second spell with Manchester United, the 37-year-old has decided to depart from Old Trafford. He fell out of favour with Erik ten Hag and failed to fit into his system. 

However, Cristiano Ronaldo, who has a record of 117 goals in 191 matches, is the nation's all-time leading scorer and is crucial for the team's success. Despite being low-ranked here, the six-time Ballon d'Or holder is consistently the centre of attention.

5. Neymar Jr, Brazil

Neymar Jr. clinched 15 goals and 12 assists in 19 matches for Paris Saint-Germain. The Brazilian star is expected to win the Golden Boot in his third World Cup appearance.

With support from Vinicius Jr., Richarlison, Raphinha, and Antony, Neymar Jr could finally fulfil his dream of winning the World Cup.

4. Kevin De Bruyne, Belgium

The Belgian is lauded for his passing ability and shooting ability, which boosted his performance in recent years. The Belgium national team are heavily dependent on him in the midfield, where he can easily cut through defences. Belgium could finish at the top of Group F if he is partnered with a reliable forward.

3. Karim Benzema, France

Karim Benzema was unstoppable in the last few seasons, and his time with Real Madrid has already earned him five Champions League wins. However, his recent injury has ruled him out of the tournament ending his second consecutive World Cup win after Les Bleus' victory in 2018. 

2. Kylian Mbappé, France

Kylian Mbappé started as a rising star at the 2018 World Cup in Russia but is now one of the best players in the world. He led Paris Saint Germain to the top of Ligue one with 13 wins out of 15 matches. He's fast-paced, accurate and precise in his game.  

1. Lionel Messi, Argentina

After a disappointing debut season in Paris Saint-Germain, Messi resurfaced and scored 12 goals and 14 assists in 18 matches the following season. 

He is the indomitable leader and centre of the attack for his Argentinian teammates. They crashed out of the round of 16 in 2018, but their recent 2021 Copa America win has raised their hopes again.