5 best midfielders according to the Ballon d'Or rankings

#4 - Kevin de Bruyne (Manchester City, 14th):

Kevin de Bruyne is arguably the best player in the English Premier League this season

Kevin de Bruyne's transfer to Manchester City has generally been extremely successful, but with the arrival of Spanish tactician Pep Guardiola to town, the Belgian's influence has only grown.

De Bruyne is responsible for initiating play and finishing off attacks, in quite possibly the most entertaining, offensive-minded side, in Europe's top five leagues this season, as the Citizens continue to cruise their way from one victory to the other.

The individual stats of the 26-year old speak for themselves. His 5 goals and 11 assists in all competitions, have been fundamental in City's success, with the evidence of leading the English Premier League by a gap of 11 points from their closest opponents, Manchester United, as well as topping their UEFA Champions League group, after outclassing Napoli over the two games.

Man City are getting better and better each week, and if they manage to maintain this high level of intensity, then they could well be heading towards the double. Their round of 16 tie against FC Basel in Europe, is considered a very favorable one - and quite possibly an open path to the quarter finals, with all due respect to the opponent.

Beating Man United in the local derby at Old Trafford, suggests that De Bruyne and City are better than ever.