Ballon d'Or Power Rankings: April 2018

#9 Marc-Andre Ter Stegen

Ter Stegen has been Barcelona's impregnable wall this season

Not what you expected? A keeper!?

Let us explain ourselves and also ease you into some more disheartening news. The Barca shot-stopper isn't only making an entry into the top 10 in our Power Rankings for April but is doing so at the expense of a striker who has been among the highest echelons of the world game but has still failed to land any major recognition or accolade - Sergio Aguero.

The Argentine's pain is the German's moment of opportunity!

There is no denying that Ter Stegen has been a driving force behind Barcelona's surreal unbeaten run in the campaign - both in the league and in Europe.

The shot-stopping ability of the German is second to none. None!

He has sharp reflexes and has repeatedly pulled out blinders to help his side inch towards glory.

The German has been overshadowed by his senior in the German team - Manuel Neuer - who has similarly overshadowed every keeper since his entry onto the world stage.

We'd always hear talk about how the man with the gloves for Barcelona was the next big thing in Germany, but no one else in the world was bothered; all this back when Ter Stegen was with his beloved Borrusia Moenchengladbach.

It took a horrific injury to Neuer for the world to finally take notice of the amazing skills that his junior in the national side has as a goalkeeper.

The German has been in blinding form this season, saving Barcelona on innumerable occasions, and has literally had no moments of uncertainty in 38 appearances for them this season.

He has only let in two (from five) in the Champions League thus far and somehow has an even better record in the league, which also happens to be the best in Europe.

Just 15 conceded in 29 fixtures with a staggering 18 clean sheets. That makes it just 22 conceded in total, whereas the number of clean sheets add upto 23.

More clean sheets than goals conceded. Let that sink in for a moment...