Chance creators are highly-valued in football, and rightly so. The ability to change the direction of the game with a single pass is why creative players are so expensive in today's market.
Such players have a touch of magic in their play. World-class creators boast superb vision, passing and technical ability, and are renowned for their tendency to unlock a defence.
We look at the 5 players who have created the most chances in the Premier League so far (2021/22).
#5 Matt Ritchie (Newcastle United) | 25 chances created
It would probably be a surprise to many to find Matt Ritchie's name on this list, given how poor Newcastle United have been this season.
Ritchie is a seasoned campaigner who has been around for a long time. The Scotland international joined Newcastle United from Bournemouth in 2016 for nearly £11 million. Having made his name as a winger, Ritchie in recent seasons has been utilized as a full-back at Newcastle United.
The 32-year old is a dependable performer who is renowned for his crossing and set-piece ability. New Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe will be no stranger to Ritchie's abilities, having previously coached him at Bournemouth.
#4 Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) | 26 chances created
Mohamed Salah has been the best player in world football this season and his attacking prowess has single-handedly blown opponents away.
Salah has been a world-class performer since joining Liverpool, but this season he has taken it up a notch. The 29-year old has terrorised opposition defenders with his pace, dribbling and finishing ability. He has thrived both as a scorer and a creator so far this time around.
In 11 Premier League appearances, the Egypt international has scored 10 goals and provided seven assists. Salah has been in sensational form for Jurgen Klopp's side. With his contract expiring in 2023, Liverpool fans are understandably keen to ensure that he signs a new deal with the club soon.
Also Read: 5 players with the most appearances in Premier League history
#3 Jack Grealish (Manchester City) | 26 chances created
Jack Grealish is yet to hit the form that made Manchester City spend nearly £106 million to acquire him from Aston Villa this summer.
There is no denying Grealish's talent. The 26-year old is an excellent dribbler and chance creator, and at Aston Villa he was their superstar and talisman. Moving to Manchester City has understandably diminished his importance, but Grealish has shown glimpses of what he is capable of.
The England international has made nine Premier League appearances, scoring one goal and providing two assists. It is evident that Grealish is still figuring out what Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola's style of play. With time, the forward should come good for his new club.
#2 Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool) | 30 chances created
Lyrical has been waxed about Trent Alexander-Arnold's quality. Many regard him as a generational footballer capable of having a huge impact on the right-back position.
A product of the Liverpool academy, Alexander-Arnold is a one-club man. Having made his debut in 2016, the 23-year old has quickly established himself as the side's most creative player. Alexander-Arnold is world-class going forward, with his passing, crossing and technical ability all earning praise.
A dead-ball specialist, the England international is seen as the best right-back in world football. Alexander-Arnold's performances last season were criticized, but the young superstar has bounced back strongly. In nine Premier League games, he has one goal and four assists.
#1 Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United) | 37 chances created
The less said about Manchester United's season so far, the better. The pressure has been amped up on manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and even Bruno Fernandes has come under criticism for his performances.
Fernandes is a unique footballer. A firm fan favorite among the Old Trafford faithful, the midfielder has often been the difference between a win and a loss under Solskjaer's management. A world-class creator and a prolific goalscorer, the Portugal international has had a transformative effect on the club since his arrival.
Despite some subdued performances this season, Fernandes remains the club's most important player. The 27-year old has made 11 Premier League appearances, scoring four goals and providing three assists.
Also Read: 5 teams that have the best pass completion rate in the Premier League