Top 10 active footballers apart from Ronaldo and Messi 

#8 Gareth Bale (Real Madrid)

Bale has been an instrumental piece in Madrid's fearsome frontline

Who can forget that tormenting night Maicon faced at San Siro in Milan? It was probably the worst 45 minutes he might have endured in his time on a football pitch. They still say that the Brazilian full-back, once considered the best in his position, was never the same again after facing Gareth Bale.

The Welshman has come a long way since then, winning a host of accolades for himself as well as the club.

Gareth Bale is mainly known for his tremendous speed and powerful long-shots. He has earned wide recognition for his long-shots, set-pieces and powerful style of play. His rise as a world-class footballer has helped in transforming Tottenham as serious contenders in the Premier League. Also, the 28-year-old was a crucial addition to the team that won the La Decima in 2014.

Only international success has remained out of his reach in an otherwise glorious career. Bale hasn't won silverware with his country. Even then, the prolific Welshman has earned a worthy place amongst the best players in his generation.