ESPN has produced statistical evidence of the top four players with the most assists from open play across the top five European leagues during the 2014-15 season, with no representatives from the Barclays Premier League.
SEE ALSO:
Man City line-up move for £32m Real Madrid playmaker Isco
Chelsea & Real Madrid transfer target hints at summer switch to Barcelona
Brendan Rodgers told his Liverpool job is safe…for now
The list does include three players that have played in England, which may suggest players find it easier to shine elsewhere:
Take a look at who has created their way into the top four:
4) Luis Suarez – Barcelona (13 assists)
The former Liverpool striker has been in superb form for the La Liga and Copa Del Rey holders since his big money move last summer.
Despite struggling for goals after serving his ban for biting Giorgio Chiellini at last summer’s World Cup, Suarez assisted a goal on his debut as he crossed for Neymar to score in El Clasico back in October.
He has since gone on to register 12 more assists and ranks fourth in this list.
3) Cristiano Ronaldo – Real Madrid (15 assists)
There is a perception that the Portuguese superstar is selfish and wants all the glory for himself, well these stats dismiss those claims.
As well as being lethal in front of goal, Ronaldo has created a further 15 goals for his team-mates this season.
=1) Lionel Messi – Barcelona (17 assists)
What more is there to say about the Argentine magician? It would be a shock for everyone if he didn’t feature highly in a list that rewards attacking players.
Not only does Messi score a vast amount for the Catalan giants, he seems to take great pride in assisting others and that pass from right to left for Neymar has become his trademark this season.
=1) Kevin De Bruyne
The former Chelsea man has been in stunning form for Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga this season and it is no surprise to seem him joint-top with Messi when it comes to assists from open play.
The Belgian has found a new lease of life in Germany and his team-mates have benefited from Jose Mourinho deciding to cash in on the 23-year-old in 2014.