There was a time when the Premier League was considered the best league in the world. Elite players -- Cristiano Ronaldo, Thierry Henry, Frank Lampard and Luis Suarez -- were plying their trade not so long ago. Although it is still the most followed, most competitive and most entertaining league, the quality of football has gone downhill.
This is mainly due to the top players leaving for bigger clubs like Real Madrid, FC Barcelona and Bayern Munich. The most recent example being Philippe Coutinho.There has not been a single player from the Premier League in FIFA world 11 for quite a few years now. English clubs have failed to impress in the Champions League as well.
So, who are the stars from the current crop that can ply their trade in the best of clubs? Let's find out.
#5 Mohamed Salah
A surprise inclusion in this list for many as it's only been half a season since Salah has taken the Premier League by storm. However, the Egyptian's performances have warranted the inclusion.
With most goal contributions in the league so far and second in the race for the golden boot, Salah has hit the ground running. Liverpool's season has largely been smooth sailing and Salah's spectacular form has been a key factor in it.
With rumoured interest from Real Madrid, the African player of the year might just use Liverpool as a stepping stone for his bright looking career.
#4 Kevin De Bruyne
Bought for £55 million from Wolfsburg in 2015, Kevin De Bruyne is a prime example of how Manchester City's transfer policy has turned their fortunes around after Sheikh Mansour's takeover.
Now one of the world's best attacking midfielders, the former Chelsea man has become a vital cog in Pep Guardiola's side. The Belgian has the most assists in the league since he arrived and the joint highest assists this season.
After displaying his talent week in week out, and helping City in their impressive run of form this season, we can say that sky is the limit for his career.
#3 Eden Hazard
Eden Hazard has been a revelation for Chelsea in recent years. Signed from Lille in 2012, the Belgian stalwart has since been one of the best players in the league. His performances were vital in helping Chelsea lift the Premier League crown twice in three years.
Experts continually draw comparisons of him with Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo due to his style of play. Although he does not have mind-blowing stats, Chelsea's attacking play will be barren without him. Only people who watch his matches will be able to judge how influential he is.
Chelsea will have a hard time keeping their star for long.
#2 David De Gea
Whenever we think of the best goalkeepers in the world, David De Gea is one name that always resonates in the mind. Such is his influence that critics always attribute United's successes to him. The most recent example being the 3-1 win over rivals, Arsenal.
Brought in by Sir Alex Ferguson from Atletico Madrid as a replacement for the legendary Edwin van der Sar in 2011, De Gea has successfully filled the Dutch keeper's shoes. The Spaniard has gone on to collect the Manchester United player of the season award 3 times, winning the Premier League, FA Cup and Europa League in the process.
De Gea had almost joined Real Madrid in 2015 but a fax Machine error on deadline day caused him to stay back. The Spanish outfit is still lurking around for him and next time, a fax machine won't be there to save United's day.
#1 Harry Kane
Harry Kane is the most prolific striker in the world right now. By scoring the most goals in 2017 and beating both Messi and Ronaldo in the process, he has announced his arrival on the big stage in style. A product of Tottenham's academy, Spurs fans call him as their own with pride.
Kane became a regular starter for the North Londoners in 2014 and has not looked back since, finishing each season as top scorer for Pochettino's side. He has also been the golden boot winner for the past 2 seasons in the PL.
The Englishman is touted by many to break Alan Shearer's all-time Premier League goalscoring record. To do that, he has to stay in the league for a long time. However, Kane's prime is fast approaching and Tottenham have failed to win major trophies. This may act as a deterrent while signing a new contract.