Ranking the 11 best playmakers in Europe right now

#7 David Silva

Manchester City v FC Shakhtar Donetsk - UEFA Champions League Group F

Undoubtedly one of the most important players in Manchester City's history, David Silva had long caught the eye of the world with his performances for Valencia in LaLiga, and was a regular Spanish international for almost 15 years until his retirement at the end of the last World Cup.

Possessing excellent close control, beautiful technique and wonderful vision, Silva uses his outrageous talents to dictate play from deep while also having the wherewithal to influence proceedings from further forward.

A classic number 10, Silva seems to have gotten better with age, slotting in seamlessly to Pep Guardiola's pattern and remains an indispensable member of the squad, despite turning 33 next January and the presence of multi-talented midfielders within the City squad.

On his day, David Silva can hold his own with the best midfielders in the world, and would seamlessly get into the starting 11 of all the clubs in Europe and he has undoubtedly paid back the £26m and some which Manchester City expended to get him in 2010.

Silva's best performance for City thus far arguably came last season, as despite his personal problems he contributed 11 assists and nine goals as City romped to the title.

This season, he has continued with his usual high standards despite playing from a deeper role and has starred with five goals and two assists, helping cover for the humongous absence of Kevin De Bruyne as City look to defend the title they won so emphatically last season.