The world's top five soccer clubs in the world as of Nov. 6, 2017

It was an eventful week with two matches each for the top soccer clubs in Europe -- and therefore the world (Yes we're making that statement. Shouldn't really be debatable though we have anointed the best team from outside Europe once more, just like we did last week and the week before). This post has been updated with an honorable mention list of clubs that are knocking on the door of the #top5 (yes that's going viral). But here are this week's best, in ascending order:

5. Tottenham Hotspur

Last week's spot: None.
Record in all competition: 11-3-3 (11 wins, 3 losses, 3 ties)
Notable results: Lost at home to Chelsea (by 2-1 on Aug. 20), beat Borussia Dortmund (3-1, Sept. 13), drew at Real Madrid (1-1, Oct. 17), beat Liverpool (4-1, Oct. 22), lost at Manchester United (1-0, Oct. 28), beat Real at home (3-1, Nov. 1).
Last week: The win over Real Madrid in Champions League play at midweek, edged Crystal Palace 1-0 yesterday.
Discussion: They're back. After a one-week absence, Spurs return to the top 5 thanks to their historic beatdown of Real Madrid. The win over Palace was far less impressive and actually could have gone the other way had it not been for some heroics from Tottenham's third-string goalkeeper. Injuries have reared their head: Harry Kane is starting games but clearly not at full strength. Dele Alli, Toby Alderweireld and Hugo Lloris are out. So too is the reserve goalkeeper Michel Vorm, which is what led to Paulo Gazzaniga starting against Palace. Now Harry Winks is hurt too. Despite this, Spurs managed to get the result they needed yesterday and that is exactly what a top team does. We said Spurs asserted themselves as one of the best teams in Europe with the Real victory. We're sticking to that and not just because pundits have agreed with us (we like it more when pundits disagree, frankly, though we do sometimes make it easy for them, admittedly). Yes, Tottenham are just third in the Premiership but that's thanks to a weak start when the Wembley hoodoo took its toll (or more like the team needed to adjust to its temporary home). While it's also true that Real are not playing their best, the margin of victory and thorough dismantling of reigning European champions still carry a lot of weight. This is what makes Spurs the fifth-best team on the planet right now, in our estimation.
The road ahead: The North London Derby against Arsenal is first up after the international break, on Nov. 18. That game is at the Emirates. No question who the favorite should be for this, though maybe not if Kane has to sit it out.

4. FC Barcelona

Last week: First.
Record in all competition: 14-0-2
Notable results: Beat Juventus (3-0, Sept. 12), drew at Atletico Madrid (1-1, Oct. 14).
Last week: Drew at Olympiakos in the Champions League, beat Sevilla on Saturday in La Liga.
Discussion: Barca remain unbeaten but the scoreless draw at Olympiakos was enough to dock them three spots in the ranking seeing how the teams behind them won both their games convincingly. Several things plagued Barca during this game, chief among them Luis Suarez's loss of form, according to our friends BarcaBlauGranes.com. While the victory over Sevilla was impressive enough (the Andalusian side were fifth coming into the match), the ranking committee remains nonplussed by the quality of la Liga this season. Spanish media share our concerns. Valencia, with no European fixtures at all (not even Europa League qualifiers), are second. Spanish teams have few quality victories over European competition. Barca did beat Juventus, but that club too has had a few struggles. Add it all up and Barca are simply not the best team in the world right now. Or even the second-best. Or the third-best. What they are, is fourth best. So says us.
The road ahead: Visit Leganes and visit Juventus immediately after the international break. The clash with Real Madrid is on Wednesday, Dec. 20, in case you were wondering. At the Bernabeu. Midweek.

3. Bayern Munich

Last week's spot: Fourth.
Record in all competition: 15-2-2
Notable results: lost to Paris Saint German (3-0, Sept. 27), won at Borussia Dortmund (3-1, Nov. 4).
Last week: Two wins, over Celtic in the Champions League (2-1) and Borussia in Bundesliga play.
Discussion: Make it seven victories in a row since Jupp Heynckes took control of the Bavarian juggernaut. Bayern had no real trouble with Celtic at midweek and piled the misery on poor Borussia Dortmund on Saturday. Dortmund have won just one of their last seven games and that was a cup tie against Magdeburg, some lower division side. Still, a win at Dortmund is a win at Dortmund and Bayern did that convincingly. They now lead the Bundesliga by four points over RB Leipzig. Dortmund, despite their miserable form, sit third. Bayern are in good shape in their Champions League group with nine points from four games and are effectively through to the next round. They're unlikely to win the group, seeing how PSG have a goal difference of 17 scored, 0 conceded.
The road ahead: Host Augsburg and visit Anderlecht when teams return from the international break.

2. Paris Saint Germain

Last week's spot: Third.
Record in all competition: 13-0-2
Notable results: Beat Bayern Munich (3-0, Sept. 27), drew Olympique Marseille (2-2, Oct. 22).
Last week: A pair of easy victories, over Anderlecht in the Champions League and Angers in French league play.
Discussion: Since they dropped points to Marseille, PSG have reeled off three wins in a row by a combined score of 13 to zero. While the opposition has not been particularly worrisome (or at all worrisome, if we're being honest), this run of form is still good enough to make PSG the second-best team in the world at this juncture. It's also worth noting that Neymar has missed two of these games. The club play an entertaining style with their attacking 4-3-3 formation and lethal front three of Neymar, Edinson Cavani and Kylian Mbappe. While there were doubts about the defense at the start of the season, judging by how many few goals they have conceded (a grand total of eight, from 15 games), it is safe to say those can be laid to rest at this juncture. Of course a lot will depend on the next stage(s) of the Champions League. Domestically, PSG only really have to worry about Monaco and the two Olympiques -- Marseille and Lyon. They lead Monaco by four points and Marseille and Lyon by seven and eight points, respectively.
The road ahead: Host Nantes and Celtic after the international break. Lyon is on the docket for Jan. 20.

1. Manchester City

Last week: Second.
Record in all competition: 16-0-1
Notable results: Won at Chelsea (1-0, Sept. 30), beat Napoli (2-1, Oct. 17) and won at Napoli (4-2, Nov. 1)
Last week Two big wins, at Napoli in the Champions League and over Arsenal in the Premiership.

Discussion: Man City are dominating domestic and European competition alike. Their lead in the English topflight is now eight points after yesterday's victory over Arsenal and Man United's loss at Chelsea. It was the ninth straight win for Pep Guardiola's side, though the man himself apparently doesn't think they're anywhere close to their potential yet. Unfortunately, he's refused to compare them to rivals on the continent, making our job just a little bit harder. Domestically, it's hard to see how anybody will be able to catch them at this point -- barring injuries of course. For now, City are just too good. Alan Shearer says they're unstoppable. Antonio Conte has all but conceded the Premiership title to them. There has been talk of an invincible season, though Guardiola has talked this down. They found themselves a goal behind after 21 minutes at Napoli but were able to turn the match rather easily in the end. With the win Citizens are now on a perfect 12 points after four games and obviously assured passage to the next round -- though not yet as group winners, as Shakthar Donetsk are just three points behind. The two clubs don't meet until the final matchday but at that point it probably won't matter anymore.
The road ahead: The Manchester derby is the second weekend in December. Man U did not look good against Chelsea but remain second for now. Could that be the last, best chance to upend City's march to the title?

Dropping out

Napoli (fifth last week).

Also receiving consideration

Besiktas Istanbul: The Turkish side lead their Champions League group ahead of (in order) Porto, RB Leipzig and AS Monaco, but sit just third in their domestic league. Including Besiktas by definition means Porto, RB (don't call them Red Bull. That's Rasenballsport, which if you must know is an invented word. More on that some other time) and Monaco do not get consideration. Besiktas beat all three of these teams, two of them away from home. AS Roma: Winners of five in a row. Lead their Champions League group ahead of Chelsea, whom they beat up on 3-0 last week. But sit just fifth in Serie A. Lazio: Lead their Europa League group with a perfect record after four games, and beat Juventus Turin in Serie A competition. Hold fourth place in the Italian league. Inter Milan: Unbeaten in all competition, which actually is just one competition as the nerazurri are not playing continentally at all this season. Third in Serie A. Olympique Lyon: Have lost just once this season and that was to PSG. Just beat up on St. Etienne 5-nil in a raucous Rhone derby. Third in Ligue Un.

Best Ex-Europe: Boca Juniors

Boca get the nod for the second week in a row thanks to victory in an explosive Superclasico at archrivals River Plate. It was a fiery encounter with two red cards and a pair of wonder goals. Do yourself a favor and watch the highlights of this match on YouTube (commentary in Spanish, but you won't need to know what they're saying if you don't understand Spanish. Video being a visual medium). For more English language coverage of this game, check out CBSsports.com's comprehensive story. Unfortunately there do not appear to be any English-language blogs devoted to Boca, or at least not any that have been updated recently (and if you're not going to update it after the Superclasico, well, then it just can't be very good, can it?). The excellent Hasta el Gol Siempre is a good go-to for anything related to Argentine soccer. If you know of Boca-centered coverage that we're missing, please let us know in the comments sections (coverage outside of the reddit sewing circle, that is, which we are well aware of and which is in all seriousness an excellent resource). Anyway, with the result, Boca have now started the season with eight straight wins and a goal difference of 21 scored, two conceded. That obviously puts them first in the Superliga table, nine points ahead of the nearest contender. Unfortunately there is no continental competition until the start of the Copa Libertadores in January. Boca do have one loss on the season, a 1-0 loss to Rosario Central in the Copa Argentina. That's an acceptable blemish to name them the best non-European team in the world at present.

Counting down the five best soccer teams in the world as of Oct. 30, 2017

Here it is, the third edition of this season's top five club ranking, reflecting the full slate of weekend games. Check out last week's iteration here. There were some important results with the teams in the #top5 (yes that's going viral) so let's see how that affected things. Skip right to the best non-European team here. This list will update again shortly so be sure to check back frequently.

5. Napoli

Last week's spot: None, though were given consideration.
Record in all competition: 12-2-1 (12 wins, 2 losses, 1 tie)
Notable results: Lost at Shakthar Donetsk (2-1, on Sept. 13), beat AS Roma (1-0, Sept. 20), lost at Manchester City (2-1, Oct. 17), drew Inter Milan at home (0-0, Oct. 21)
Last week: Won both Serie A matches, at Genoa and at home against Sassuolo, where they scored a goal directly from a corner.
Discussion: Napoli had a good week, winning both games convincingly to take the fifth spot in our ranking. Maurizio Sarri's team have established themselves as the favorites in Serie A, with an unbeaten (and just once tied) record after 11 matches, good enough for a three-point lead over Juventus and Lazio. The European campaign has been less positive. Napoli sit third in their group, behind Man City and Donetsk, but can potentially leapfrog the latter on Nov. 21 (or maybe even earlier, depending on what happens next week). The ranking committee deemed losing at Donetsk and the Etihad as forgivable offenses and decided Napoli worthy of the fifth spot. This is a quality team in good form. With Marek Hamsik, Lorenzo Insigne and Dries Mertens they have three bonafide superstars in the making.
The road ahead: The return leg against Man City is on Wednesday. That will be a major test for both teams. Napoli can really make a statement, and upend this entire ranking, with a win. City look ripe for the picking. Then visit Verona Sunday before AC Milan pay a visit next Saturday. Juventus looms Dec. 1.

4. Bayern Munich

Last week's spot: None.
Record in all competition: 13-2-2 (thirteen wins, two losses, two ties)
Notable results: lost to Paris Saint German (3-0, Sept. 27)
Last week: Beat RB (don't call them Red Bull. That's Rasenballsport, if you must know) Leipzig twice. The first of those games was a cup tie that went to penalties, then in Bundesliga action over the weekend the Bavarian side won rather convincingly by a 2-0 score.
Discussion: Bayern make their first appearance of the season in the top five after moving into first place in the Bundesliga. The team have been resurgent since Jupp Heynckes took control on Oct. 6. This is his fourth go-round managing the German juggernaut, in case you were counting. Bayern have reeled off five victories in a row since this most recent return. This is clearly a different team from the one who were so soundly beaten by PSG a month ago. They get their chance for revenge in December, on the last matchday of group stage play, at which point it likely won't matter.
The road ahead: Visit Celtic tomorrow and Borussia Dortmund on Saturday. Dortmund are now second in the Bundesliga and of course always a very tough place to play, so that's a big one. A loss and Bayern will likely be dropped from this space. A win and they may move up, especially considering what might happen to...

3. Paris Saint Germain

Last week's spot: Third
Record in all competition: 11-0-2
Notable results: Beat Bayern Munich (3-0, Sept. 27), drew Olympique Marseille (2-2, Oct. 22)
Last week: Beat Nice, 3-0 on Friday.
Discussion: No Neymar, no problem for PSG who made quick work of Nice on Friday night. The game was effectively settled by the 30th minute when Edinson Cavani got his second goal. PSG now have 29 points from 11 Ligue Un matches with a goal difference of +26 (34 scored, 8 conceded). But it's the French league. There's one good team besides PSG (Monaco, currently second) and a few decent ones. Nice were supposed to be decent, falling in Champions League qualification to Napoli, but Lucien Favre's men currently sit 16th.
The road ahead: Host Anderlecht in Champions League action tomorrow. That should not be a problem considering PSG won the first leg 4-0. Then visit Angers, whoever that is, on Saturday. The return leg at Bayern Munich which wraps up the UCL group stage is worth watching. That game is Dec. 5. Also visit Monaco, Nov. 25.

2. Manchester City

Last week: First
Record in all competition: 14-0-1
Notable results: Won at Chelsea (1-0, Sept. 30), beat Napoli (2-1, Oct. 17)
Last week Won twice, in midweek Carabao Cup (Wolverhampton Wanderers, albeit on penalties) and Saturday over West Bromwich Albion (3-2).
Discussion: Neither victory last week was quite as convincing as we would have liked, costing City their top spot in the ranking. The Wolves game was just league cup and not worthy of much discussion except to say that it was against a Championship side. A very good Championship side, but a Championship side nonetheless. Who, it should be noted, were not playing all starters either. The win over West Brom was a little more comfortable than the score might indicate, with Albion's second goal coming very late and after matters were already decided. Still, when you're supposed to be the best team in the world minor blemishes like the Wolves match will be counted against you. Tough, but so is life.
The road ahead: The return leg against Napoli tomorrow. That game is in Naples and is as much a chance for the Italian side to show they belong as it is for City to reclaim the top spot. The Manchester derby is the second weekend in December. Man U are looking resurgent after this week.

1. FC Barcelona

Last week: Second
Record in all competition: 13-0-1
Notable results: Beat Juventus (3-0, Sept. 12). Drew at Atletico Madrid (1-1, Oct. 14)
Last week: Won twice, in midweek Copa del Rey (3-0 over Real Murcia) and Saturday at Athletic Bilbao (2-0).
Discussion: Speaking of "No Neymar, no problem..." The Brazilian's departure to Paris was supposed to usher in a period of instability and self-doubt. While that is very much what has happened politically in this part of Spain, or what is still Spain at the time of this writing, the local soccer power is a-ok. Like Man City they possess an unbeaten and only once-tied record. It was a very close call but the win at Bilbao, never an easy task, is what clinched it along with the slightly less convincing performance from City. Unfortunately, the political crisis could have a major impact on the club in short order. The president of La Liga has said Barcelona would not be allowed to play in Spain's topflight if Catalonia becomes an independent country. Presumably this would not be instituted mid-season. Barca bloggers Barca Blaugranes seem to think joining France's Ligue Un would be a good idea. To his credit, Barca head coach Ernesto Valverde is refusing to be drawn in to the crisis.
The road ahead: Visit Olympiakos in Champions League play tomorrow. Host Sevilla, currently fifth, in Liga action on Saturday. Those should prove whether they are worthy of this spot. With great ranking, comes great responsibility. The return leg against Juventus is Nov. 22, though that may not matter at that point seeing how the teams are first and second in their Champions League group, with neither of the other two clubs (Sporting Lisbon is the fourth) being able to offer up much in the way of competition. The clash with Real Madrid is on Wednesday, Dec. 20. At the Bernabeu. Midweek. Should be fun.

Dropping out

Real Madrid (fourth last week) after losing to Girona, Tottenham Hotspur (fifth) after losing at Manchester United.

Also receiving consideration

Chelsea (first in their CL group where they won at Atletico Madrid, fourth in Premiership), Besiktas (first in their Champions League group after defeats of Monaco, RB Leipzig and FC Porto, but just third in domestic competition).

Non European Team of Note: Boca Juniors

Unbeaten and untied after six games in Argentina's Superliga, with just one goal conceded, the club from Buenos Aires replace their crosstown rivals River Plate in this space. Last week saw the continuation of Boca's dominance, with a 4-0 victory over Belgrano. Dario "Pipa" Benetto, author of two goals in that game, has picked up where he left off last season when he was the league's top scorer. His prowess has earned him call ups to Argentina's national side, never an easy task with all the competition. Centerback Lisandro Magallan has caught the eye of European clubs as well. Another one to watch is teenage midfielder Julian Chicco, who already has his own YouTube highlight reel. Unfortunately, Boca have no continental competition until the 2018 Copa Libertadores, which kicks off in January. But things are about to get very interesting domestically where they face River Plate on Sunday. If any of our South American readers have further thoughts on Boca or other teams in the region that they'd like to contribute, please supply them in the comments section.

The world's top five soccer clubs as of Oct. 23, 2017

Here it is, the second edition of this season's top five club ranking, reflecting the full slate of weekend games. Check out last week's iteration here. There were some important results with the teams in the #top5 (yes that's going viral) so let's see how that affected things. This list was updated to add a non-European team and "honorable mention" roll of other clubs warranting consideration. Scroll to the bottom to read that section or click here:

5. Tottenham Hotspur

Last week's spot: None, this is Spurs' first appearance pretty much ever since we've been doing these lists.
Record in all competition: 9-1-3 (nine wins, one loss, three draws)
Notable results: Lost to Chelsea at home (2-1, on Aug. 20), beat Borussia Dortmund at home (3-1, Sept. 13), drew at Real Madrid (1-1, Oct. 17), beat Liverpool 4-1 at home yesterday.
Discussion: It was a superb week for Spurs, starting with the impressive performance at the Bernabeu. Then there was the beat-down of Liverpool yesterday. The 4-1 scoreline actually flattered Liverpool, who were a complete mess defensively and don't look to be making any appearances on this list anytime soon, if ever. But at least they still have Jurgen Klopp. Oh wait, Klopp's record is actually worse than both of his predecessors' after the same number of games played. But this isn't about Klopp or Liverpool -- it's about Tottenham and the fact is Mauricio Pochettino's men belong here in a list of the best teams on the planet. They've been tested against the best (Real Madrid, away) and didn't blink. They've beaten every other quality side they faced except for Chelsea (their one loss) and that was in August. Games played in August are deeply discounted in our model, and not because Harry Kane isn't able to score any goals during that month. Tottenham ooze quality. Their goalkeeper is one of the best shot-stoppers in the game, their three centerbacks match up with any on the planet and then there's Harry Kane. English players are often usually almost always overhyped, often to the point of hyperbole, but with Kane the superlatives simply fit -- and that's according to people like Thierry Henry, a proven hater. Keep in mind that Dele Alli and Christian Eriksen have not really found their form, that Moussa Dembele and Danny Rose have been injured and that Kyle Walker left during the close season. This team is not just good, it can still get a lot better. Man City and Europe should take notice. These are giddy times for us Spurs supporters.
The road ahead: After a challenging week things don't get any easier. A League Cup match against West Ham is Wednesday, followed by a trip to Old Trafford on Saturday. Man United have seen better days and there are indications Jose Mourinho has lost the dressing room already and the team is on for a repeat performance of 2016/17. Still a visit to the Old Trafford is never easy and Spurs have lost or drawn 73 percent of the time these teams have played historically (136 of 186 games, according to our friends at 11v11.com. The recent record is more in Tottenham's favor though, with the North London side losing just three of the last 10 matchups). The return leg against Real is Nov. 1. The North London derby Nov. 19 followed by the return leg against Borussia Dortmund two days later. Man City, if you're curious, is on the docket for Dec. 16. It's feasible that match could go a long way toward deciding the Premiership title.

4. Real Madrid

Last week: Fifth
Record in all competition: 8-1-3 (8 wins, 1 loss, 3 ties)
Notable results: Won at Dortmund (by 3-1, on Sept. 26), drew Tottenham Hotspur at home (1-1, Oct. 17)
Discussion: Real Madrid move up a spot by virtue of Man United dropping out. Real held serve this weekend, beating SD Eibar by the impressive-sounding score of 3-nil. While Real are just third in La Liga, it is due to points dropped in August (when two of their draws took place) and in their solitary loss to Real Betis on Sept. 20. None of those results speak to any real weakness with this team, though it will be very interesting indeed to see how they do at Wembley in the return leg against Spurs.
The road ahead: The return leg at Tottenham is Nov. 1. The Madrid derby is Nov. 28. A trip to Bilbao looms Dec. 12. The superclasico clash against Barcelona is on Dec. 20.

3. Paris Saint Germain

Last week: Second
Record in all competition: 11-0-2
Notable results: Beat Bayern Munich (3-0, Sept. 27), drew Olympique Marseille (2-2, Oct. 22)
Discussion: PSG came back to draw Olympique Marseille yesterday in thrilling fashion. The highlights are worth watching. Here, check them out:

Thrilling though the game was, it still exposed some weaknesses in PSG's game, particularly its defense. The ranking committee has taken notice and docked PSG one spot in the #top5. PSG should still win Ligue Un with ease. Beyond that, it's anybody's guess. They likely won't be truly tested until the elimination round of the Champions League, depending on who they draw.
The road ahead: The return leg at Bayern Munich which wraps up the UCL group stage is worth watching. Probably won't matter in the standings but could be a good test as Bayern look resurgent under Jupp Heynckes. That game is Dec. 5. Also visit Monaco (currently second in Ligue Un), Nov. 25.

2. FC Barcelona

Last week: Third
Record in all competition: 11-0-1
Notable results: Beat Juventus (3-0, Sept. 12). Drew at Atletico Madrid (1-1, Oct. 14)
Discussion: Barca move up a spot by virtue of a 2-nil victory over Malaga on Saturday. Their record is now quite simply better than PSG's and they look the better side so far, albeit by a narrow margin.
The road ahead: Visit Athletic Bilbao Saturday. The return leg against Juventus is Nov. 22, though that may not matter at that point.
The clash with Real Madrid is on Wednesday, Dec. 20. At the Bernabeu. Midweek. Should be fun.

1. Manchester City

Last week: First
Record in all competition: 12-0-1
Notable results: Won at Chelsea (1-0, Sept. 30), beat Napoli (2-1, Oct. 17)
Discussion: Man City continue to boss England and Europe alike. Last week they saw off Napoli with ease and had a nice stroll at Burnley yesterday. Their goal difference in the Premiership is 32 for, four against and in the Champions League it's been a similar story: eight scored, one conceded. Their Champions League group may not be a veritable group of death, but it does include a tough visit to Shakhtar Donetsk (already passed, City won 2-nil) and the aforementioned Napoli who currently lead Serie with an unbeaten record (it was unbeaten and untied but Napoli drew Inter Milan on Saturday). It's hard to see exactly where and whether Man City have any weaknesses. Surely the defense is untested and may begin to show signs of rust as the season wears on. But for now, this is the top team in the world, hands down. Oh yeah that one draw was against Everton on the second matchday of the season. Like we said, August. It's hard to imagine City not putting 10 past Everton if that match were played now.
The road ahead: An easy week with Wolverhampton Wanderers in League Cup action on Wednesday, followed by West Bromwich Albion on the weekend. The return leg against Napoli is the following Tuesday. The Manchester derby is the second weekend in December, though with the way things are going Man U don't look like they'll be able to offer up much in the way of competition.

Non European Team of Note: River Plate

Unbeaten so far, with a record of six wins, no losses and three draws in all competition (the Soccer Source ranking system counts matches played over two legs as one result). Sit second in the Argentine Superliga, six points behind ancient rivals Boca Juniors who have a perfect start through six games but are not in any continental competition. River Plate is in the semifinals of the Copa Libertadores. The first leg of kicks off tonight against Lanus, who are currently fifth in the Argentine top flight.

Also receiving consideration for top five: Napoli (first place in Serie A, but just third in their Champions League group), Chelsea (first in their CL group where they won at Atletico Madrid, fourth in Premiership), Besiktas (first in their Champions League group after defeats of Monaco, RB Leipzig and FC Porto, but just third in domestic competition).

The Top 5 Soccer Clubs in the World, 2017/18 Season, First Edition

This ranking has been updated! Whilst we appreciate you reading this entry, it's worth checking out the updated one too! Click here for the latest top 5.

Just in time for the weekend, our inaugural ranking edition for this season. It's obviously early days but here's an early look at how things are shaping up. Reminder that while scientific methods (wins, losses, ties, head-to-head competition, etc.) are used wherever possible, this ranking is by its very nature subjective. In other words, it is intended to inspire, rather than conclude any debate on this topic of what the best teams in the world might be right now. So comments and feedback are encouraged. Just don't expect us to like it. Just kidding, we welcome all of it. But here goes:

5. Real Madrid

Record in all competition: 7-1-3 (7 wins, 1 loss, 3 ties)
Notable results: Won at Dortmund (by 3-1, on Sept. 26), drew Tottenham Hotspur at home (1-1, Oct. 17)
Discussion: This was the toughest choice. Others warranting consideration were Chelsea, Napoli and Atletico Madrid. But all of those teams have lost against squads further up in this ranking (and in Chelsea's case, against Crystal Palace, which doomed any chances of their inclusion. Sorry you can't lose against Crystal Palace and make the list of top anything). While Napoli's one loss at Manchester City (more on them in a bit) is certainly forgivable, their listless performance was not. Neither is a loss at Shakthar Donetsk, though a victory over AS Roma and unbeaten, untied record in Serie A did bolster Napoli's case. Atletico lost at home to Chelsea and lacked a marquee victory (draws against Roma and Barcelona weren't enough in the end). That leaves Real Madrid. The 3-1 win at Dortmund was impressive and the draw against Tottenham was an early season highlight for both teams and neutral observers alike. (For more on that, see our write-up from the other day). We're more willing to forgive Real's one loss, a 1-0 defeat at home to Real Betis on Sept. 20, than Atletico's Champions League slip-up versus Chelsea.
The road ahead: The return leg at Tottenham is Nov. 1. Will Tottenham be able to duplicate their surprising performance from the Bernabeu and maybe even best Real, which would certainly knock them off of this ranking? Or will Real reassert themselves. The domestic league campaign has already left little margin for error, with the way Barcelona and second-placed Valencia have started to the season. The Madrid derby is Nov. 28. A trip to Athletic Bilbao looms Dec. 12. The superclasico clash against Barcelona on Dec. 20.

4. Manchester United

Record in all competition: 10-0-2
Notable results: Drew Liverpool at Anfield (0-0, Oct. 14)
Discussion: Jose Mourinho's side really haven't been tested. Their Champions League group is a bit of a joke, with CSKA Moscow, FC Basel and Benfica Lisbon. The two toughest challenges, away at Lisbon and Moscow, were already passed with ease. A 2-2 draw at Stoke City on Sept. 9 is the only blemish other than the boring scoreless draw at Anfield last week.
The road ahead: Host Spurs on Oct. 28. That's next weekend. Will Mourinho park the bus at home against one of Europe's most exciting teams? Probably, because Mourinho is a pussy. Visit Chelsea the weekend after that. Host Man City on Dec. 9, another opportunity to park the bus at home.

3. FC Barcelona

Record in all competition: 10-0-1
Notable results: Beat Juventus (3-0, Sept. 12). Drew at Atletico Madrid (1-1, Oct. 14)
Discussion: Were dominant in all but three matches. In the first, Barca came back from a 1-0 halftime deficit to beat Getafe on Sept. 16. Then they needed a late own-goal to win at Sporting Lisbon on Sept. 27. The third resulted in the draw at Atletico Madrid. All other wins came by two goals or more.
The road ahead: Visit Athletic Bilbao a week from Saturday. The return leg against Juventus is Nov. 22, though that may not matter at that point.
The clash with Real Madrid is on Wednesday, Dec. 20. At the Bernabeu. Midweek. Should be fun.

2. Paris Saint Germain

Record in all competition: 11-0-1
Notable results: Beat Bayern Munich (3-0, Sept. 27)
Discussion: PSG are already bossing the French ligue as might be expected, though they somehow were held to a scoreless draw at home against Montpellier on Sept. 23. That's the only blemish in an otherwise impressive campaign so far. The Champions League hasn't been a challenge either. Bayern Munich have been a bit of a mess and already changed managers. Celtic and Anderlecht are several levels below PSG. So is just about anybody. It will take the elimination round of the Champions League for this team to be tested. We like them more than Barcelona so far.
The road ahead: Actually, the return leg at Bayern Munich which wraps up the UCL group stage is worth watching. Probably won't matter in the standings but could be a good test as Bayern look resurgent under Jupp Heynckes. That game is Dec. 5. Also visit Monaco, Nov. 25.

1. Manchester City

Record in all competition: 11-0-1
Notable results: Won at Chelsea (1-0, Sept. 30), beat Napoli (2-1, Oct. 17)
Discussion: The only blemish against Pep Guardiola's side is a 1-1 draw against Everton back on Aug. 21. August results really shouldn't count, nor should results against Liverpool clubs which is why we aren't mentioning a 5-0 drubbing of the Reds on Sept. 9. But this has been a truly impressive run of results by Man City.
The road ahead: It's mostly smooth sailing the next couple of weeks. They host Burnley this weekend. The return leg against Napoli is Nov. 1. The clash with Man United will be the one to watch, the second weekend in December.

The Top 5 Soccer Clubs in the World

Just for fun, and because a top 25 is way too ambitious. And of course this could just be called "European clubs" since teams from other continents are some ways off of their quality. A note on methodology: This ranking is subjective and meant to capture (or intend to capture) the status on a seasonal basis. So this is not a ranking of form, but of the team's body of work throughout the season. Wherever possible, objective measures are weighed in the rankings: wins, losses, head-to-head, etc. Also weighing heavily is whether a team is still alive in continental competition, primarily the UEFA Champions League, now halfway through its quarterfinal fixtures. Oh yeah, for our purposes matches played over two legs count as one victory or loss. So let's get to it:

5. AS Monaco
Record in all competitions: 37 wins, 7 draws, 5 losses (76% winning percentage)
Notable victories: Tottenham Hotspur (twice), Paris Saint Germain, Manchester City
If their sweep of Spurs in the Champions League group stage didn't convince English fans of Monaco's quality, then the memorable victory over Man City certainly did the job. This is an exciting team with exciting players which rightfully deserves to be mentioned with Europe's elite. Everybody knows Kylian Mbappe's name by now, but the club from the principality have no fewer than five players who could become bonafide superstars (probably not at Monaco but that's another story). Leonardo Jardim's men started the season rather slowly, with a tough Champions League qualification victory against Fenerbahce Istanbul and draw at home against Guingamp. Yes exactly, Guingamp. It's been smooth sailing since. One of the season's five losses came against Bayer Leverkusen on the final day of their Champions League group stage after Monaco had already won the group (which realistically shouldn't be counted as a loss but we'll let it stand for purely technical reasons). One blemish is a recent loss to PSG in the French league cup finale. Les Monegasques have a three point lead over their Parisian rivals with five matchdays remaining, having not lost a Ligue Un match since December. They also carry a 3-2 lead into their CL quarter final return leg against a Borussia Dortmund team that has had (much) better seasons. If Monaco blow this they'll make us look like clueless a-holes. We don't like being made to look like clueless a-holes.

4. Bayern Munich
Record in all competitions: 30 wins, 6 draws, 4 losses (75% winning percentage)
Notable victories: Arsenal, Atletico Madrid (x2), RB Leipzig, Dortmund
Notable losses: Dortmund (away), Hoffenheim (away)
The German Rekordmeister (it means they've won more Bundesliga titles than anybody else. One of those compound German words that needs an entire sentence to be explained. Kind of like Schadenfreude) are alive in all competitions though kind of hanging by a thread in the Champions League thanks to a weak home loss to Real Madrid in the first leg of their quarterfinal match up. You get the sense the Germans were not properly tested yet this season before that game. Certainly not by an Arsenal in turmoil, whom they easily dispatched in the round of 16, and not by their Bundesliga competitors. How bad is the German top flight this year? RB Leipzig, a promoted team, are Bayern's closest competitors for the league title (another promoted club, SC Freiburg, are sixth). A club with the name TSG Hoffenheim sit third. That bad. In fact, you could make the point that it's a bit of a farce.

3. Barcelona
Record in all competitions: 32 wins, 6 draws, 5 losses (74% winning percentage)
Notable victories: That comeback win over Paris Saint Germain
Other notable results: Drew Real Madrid 1-1 at home in December
Barca trail their rivals from Spain's capital city by just three points in La Liga, while boasting a better goal difference (+61 to Real's +49), so everything to play for there. Recent losses at La Coruna and Malaga have been costly but the return leg against Real looms April 23. The blaugrana split their Champions League series with Manchester City, with a 4-0 beatdown at Camp Nou followed by a 3-1 loss at the Etihad. The Champions League group stage was otherwise forgettable, with easy victories over hopelessly overmatched Celtic and slightly less overmatched Borussia Moenchengladbach. Unforgettable on the other hand was that ridiculous comeback against PSG, though it may have masked some deeper flaws with the club. With Barca that is. PSG's flaws, a choke-artistry that can only be described as uniquely French, were readily apparent.

2. Real Madrid
Record in all competitions: 29 wins, 9 draws, 3 losses (71% winning percentage)
Notable achievements: Eliminated Napoli in CL Round of 16, drew Barcelona at Camp Nou, won 3-0 at Atletico Madrid
There are a couple of blemishes on Real's record: a loss to Celta Vigo over two legs in the Copa del Rey quarterfinals was certainly the major disappointment of the season so far, and their performance in a relatively weak Champions League group (finishing second behind Borussia Dortmund) also left a little bit to be desired. Other than that this club seems to have everything. While Cristiano Ronaldo certainly isn't getting any younger, with former Tottenham players like Gareth Bale and Luca Modric feeding him the ball that doesn't really matter all that much now, does it?

1. Juventus
Record in all competition: 34 wins, 4 draws, 4 losses (81% winning percentage)
Notable victories: At Sevilla in Champions League group stage, Roma
Notable losses: Inter, AC Milan, Genoa, Fiorentina (all away)
Masimiliano Allegri's men boast the best winning percentage of the clubs tracked here. Fresh off a 3-0 dismantling of Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal, the old lady of Italian football is firing on all cylinders. Their eight point lead atop the Serie A standings should be safe with six matchdays remaining, though a visit to second-placed Roma looms on May 14. Speaking of safe, that three-goal cushion over Barca should be sufficient as well, since, well, Juventus are not Paris Saint Germain. Paulo Dybala is looking like the next Argentine superstar.

Sorry Chelsea, Barca's Superiority Will Carry the Day

Chelsea fans don't want to hear this, but today their club faces a monumental task that will in all likelihood fall short. The reference here is of course to the return leg of the UEFA Champions League semifinal with Barcelona that takes place at Camp Nou stadium.

Blues shocked just about everybody with their 1-nil victory in last week's first leg. It was a gutsy performance from Roberto DiMatteo's men and one that supplied (temporary) payback for the bitter defeat at the same stage of the same tournament three years ago.

Alas, unlike in 2009 Chelsea were not the better team on the day. Barca dominated possession and in the first 45 minutes saw one shot carom off the crossbar and another headed off the line. In first half stoppage time, almost as an afterthought, Didier Drogba put the home side up. Only through a tremendous defensive effort, fantastic goalkeeping and some good luck (missed chances by Adriano and Sanchez, a stoppage time ball off the post) were Chelsea able to hang on for the win.

Over 180 minutes one side's run of luck usually cancels out and Chelsea are simply not good enough to make up the difference. Pep Guardiola will take advantage of the additional space supplied by the Camp Nou pitch to stretch a tired Blues defense that, let's not forget, is anchored by a pair of 32-year olds. While it is true that Barca have not played up to their usual high standards lately, the Catalan side's poor run of form gives them something to prove. After Sunday's bitter home loss to Real Madrid, Barca are all but assured of losing the Liga crown to their archrivals. With only the cup final on May 25 on the agenda, resources have been freed up to defend the Champions League title with renewed vigor. So expect the blaugrana to come out fighting. And expect Chelsea to eventually -- probably in the first 45 minutes -- to yield a goal. The second half should then see the floodgates open.

A bit of a grandiose prediction, it is true. But Chelsea have struggled for much of the season. While that may not have been a reflection of their true quality, they are surely playing over their heads a bit now. Over two legs a team like that will succumb to a superior opponent. Barca, even after Sunday's humiliation, are that opponent.

The world's top 25 soccer clubs, March 22, 2010

If you liked last week's shakeout, you're going to love this; four teams have been dropped from the Top 25 altogether, including one that was earlier making pretensions (appropriate choice of word) at a top 10 spot. Chelsea were swiftly punished for their Champions League exit while the fortunes of Inter Milan and others improved vastly. Let's get to it:

1. Barcelona
Last ranking: 1
Record (wins-losses-ties, in all competition; two-leg match-ups count as one): 30-3-7
Results of note: (chronological order) Beat Shakhtar Donetsk (at the time ranked 14th) in the UEFA SuperCup, Aug. 29, drew at then-No. 6 Inter Milan in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 16), beat then-No. 14 Dynamo Kiev at home in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29), drew at then-No. 18 Valencia (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 23 Rubin Kazan (2-1, Oct. 20), drew at then-No. 11 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 4), beat then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-0, Nov. 24), beat then-No. 7 Real Madrid (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 15 Dynamo Kiev (2-1, Dec. 9), lost to then-No. 10 Sevilla in Copa del Rey, beat then-No. 10 Sevilla at home (4-0, Jan. 16), beat then-No. 17 Valencia at home (3-0, March 14).
Commentary/recent results: Barca had absolutely no problem with VfB Stuttgart in the return leg of their Champions League match-up, defeating the German side 4-0 to advance to the quarterfinals. Now stop me if you've heard this before. They got a hat trick from Lionel Messi to win their weekend league match. Oh I know! It happened last week. That's' two hat tricks in two games for Messi. Eight goals in his last three games. Sounds like somebody's RBI totals (and even then it would be impressive). The 4-2 defeat of Saragossa allows Barca to keep pace with Real Madrid. The two friendly rivals are even on points atop the Liga BBVA standings.
Upcoming schedule: Host Osasuna Wednesday. Visit Mallorca Saturday. Then it's off to Emirates (not the country) for the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal a week from Wednesday.

2. Manchester United
Last ranking: 3
Record: 31-9-4
Results of note: Beat then No. 4 Arsenal at home (2-1, Aug. 29), beat then-No. 13 Manchester City (4-3, Sept. 20), lost at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-0, Oct. 25), lost at then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 5 Arsenal (3-1, Jan. 31), beat then-No. 12 AC Milan in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Red Devils defeated Liverpool 2-1 yesterday after spotting their rivals a 1-0 lead. It was pretty typical of everything that has happened for both teams this year. In other word, Liverpool were pathetic and Man U fortunate. They maintain a two point edge on Arsenal and four points on Chelsea, who have a game in hand.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Bolton Saturday.

3. Inter Milan
Last ranking: 4
Record: 23-4-12
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 AC Milan (4-0, Aug. 29), drew then-No. 2 Barcelona at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 17), lost at Sampdoria (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (2-2, Oct. 20), beat then-No. 13. Dynamo Kiev on the road (2-1, Nov. 4), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (2-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 11 Juventus (2-1, Dec. 5), beat then-No. 9 Rubin Kazan (2-0, Dec. 9), defeated then-No. 6 AC Milan (2-0, Jan. 24), beat then-No. 2 Chelsea in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: The nerazzurri are back in the hunt for the No. 1 season-end crown thanks to their impressive ouster of Chelsea in the Champions League round of 16. Inter managed just a 1-1 draw at Palermo in weekend Serie A action, but they can live with that after the midweek exploit. Especially because AC Milan played Napoli to the same result Sunday. Besides, Palermo are fourth in Serie A, so we can forgive this transgression. Inter maintain their one-point lead atop the Italian table.
Upcoming schedule: Host Livorno Wednesday. Visit AS Roma Sunday in what could be a huge game toward deciding the scudetto. Host CSKA Moscow the following Wednesday in the first leg of the Champions League quarterfinals. If they beat the Russian side they'll likely get Barca in the semis.

4. Girondins Bordeaux
Last ranking: 7
Record: 29-7-6
Results of note: A scoreless draw at then-No. 18 Olympique Marseille (Aug. 30), drew at then No. 5 Juventus (1-1, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 16 Bayern Munich at home (2-1, Oct. 21), won at then-No. 19 Bayern Munich (2-0, Nov. 3), beat then-No. 6 Juventus at home (2-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 21 Olympique Lyonnais (1-0, Dec. 13), defeated then-No. 18 Olympiakos in the Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Les Girondins had a huge week, ousting Olympiakos from the Champions League and defeating fourth-placed Lille in weekend Ligue Un action. But there's still a logjam at the top of the French league; Bordeaux and Montpellier (not to be confused with the capital of Vermont which is anyway spelled "Montpelier") are tied on points with Girondins holding the edge on goal difference. Auxerre is a point behind, followed by Olympique Marseille three points behind the leaders. Even Lille and Lyon, tied for fifth, are just five points in arrears.
Upcoming schedule: Their first chance to collect silverware this season with the final of the league cup on Saturday. They'll face Marseille. The Champions League quarterfinal against Lyon kicks off a week from Thursday. The winner will likely get Man United in the semis.

5. Chelsea
Last ranking: 2
Record: 30-7-7
Results of note: Beat then-No. 10 Porto in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), beat then-No. 7 Liverpool at home in Premiership (2-0, Oct. 4), beat then-No. 4 Man United at home in Premiership (1-0, Nov. 8), won at then-No. 12 Porto (1-0, Nov. 25), won at then-No. 9 Arsenal (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 8 Arsenal at home (2-0, Feb. 7), lost to then-No. 4 Inter Milan in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: A week ago Blues were knocking on the door of the top spot in our Top 25, were within a game of first place in the Premiership and had every reason to believe they would advance into the Champions League quarterfinals. Now? Not so much. Their European campaign is over after a 1-0 home loss to Inter in the return leg and this weekend saw a 1-1 draw at Blackburn that does Chelsea no favors in the Premiership title race. They now sit third, four points behind Man United, albeit with a game in hand.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Pompey at midweek. Host Aston Villa Saturday.

6. Arsenal
Last ranking: 6
Record: 28-9-5
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 5 Man United (2-1, Aug. 29), lost at then-No. 16 Man City (4-2, Sept. 12), beat then-No. 15 Olympiakos at home in Champions League group play (2-0, Sept. 29), beat then-No. 20 Liverpool at home in League Cup (2-1, Oct. 28), lost to then-No. 1 Chelsea at home in Premiership (3-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 20 Aston Villa at home (3-0, Dec. 27), lost at home to then-No. 8 Manchester United (3-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 2 Chelsea (2-0, Feb. 6), defeated then-No. 13 Porto in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Gunners defeated West Ham United 2-0 on Saturday to stay within two points of first-placed Man United. If only they had fared better against Chelsea we could actually move them ahead of Blues in the top 25. Maybe later.
Upcoming schedule: Play at Birmingham City Saturday. Host No. 1 Barcelona in the first leg of their Champions League quarterfinal. Gunners have an easy Premiership schedule the rest of the way; other than a match at White Hart Lane on April 10, only Man City (April 24) and Fulham (May 9) should be potential stumbling blocks. And both those games are home. Would it be crazy to call Arsenal the favorites to win the Premiership at this stage? No. But it wouldn't necessarily be accurate either.

7. Bayern Munich
Last ranking: 5
Record: 24-5-9
Results of note: Beat then-No. 11 VfL Wolfsburg at home (3-0, Aug. 28), lost at then-No. 22 Hamburg SV (1-0, Sept. 26), drew then-No. 5 Juventus at home in Champions League group stage (0-0, Sept. 30), lost at then-No. 17 Girondins Bordeaux (2-1, Oct. 21), lost at home to then-No. 7 Bordeaux (2-0, Nov. 3), tied then-No. 19 Bayer Leverkusen at home (1-1, Nov. 22), won at then-No. 8 Juventus (4-1, Dec. 8).
Commentary/recent results: Bayern lost at Eintracht Frankfurt 2-1 on Saturday. Die Eintracht are quietly having a pretty solid season and sit eighth. But Bayern hold on to first place in the Bundesliga standings because second-placed Schalke played Hamburg to a 2-2 draw.
Upcoming schedule: Speaking of Schalke, they are Bayern's next opponent in the DFB Pokal (German cup) semifinals on Wednesday. Bayern then host Stuttgart Saturday. Their Champions League round of 16 match-up with Man United kicks off Tuesday in Munich.

8. Benfica Lisbon
Last ranking: 9
Record: 26-3-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 22 Sporting Braga (2-0, Oct. 31), trounced Everton 5-0 in Europa League (Oct. 22), defeated then-No. 11 Porto at home (1-0, Dec. 20), defeated then-No. 19 Olympique Marseille in the Europa League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: A terrific week for Benfica, who may just take over the mantle of "hottest team in Europe" after defeating Olympique Marseille to advance to the Europa League quarterfinals. They'll face Liverpool but seriously, how hard can that be? There was no domestic action on the agenda last week. The last time Benfica lost a game was Nov. 22.
Upcoming schedule: Host second-placed Sporting Braga Sunday. That may just decide the Portuguese title.

9. Olympique Lyonnais
Last ranking: 8
Record: 23-9-9
Results of note: Beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), won at then-No. 20 Liverpool (2-1, Oct. 20), lost at home to then-No. 4 Bordeaux (1-0, Dec. 13), beat then-No. 4 Real Madrid in Champions League round of 16, lost at then-No. 19 Olympique Marseille (2-1, March 21)
Commentary/recent results: A week after their shocking ouster of Real Madrid from the Champions League, Lyon suffered the inevitable letdown, losing at Marseille to drop to fifth in Ligue Un, though still just five points behind the leaders.
Upcoming schedule: Host Grenoble Foot Friday. The Champs League quarterfinal with Bordeaux kicks off a week from Thursday. Lyon will host that.

10. Real Madrid
Last ranking: 10
Record: 25-6-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 9 Sevilla (2-1, Oct. 4). drew at then-No. 17 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 3), lost at then-No. 3 Barcelona (1-0, Nov. 29), won at then-No. 12 Valencia (3-2, Dec. 12), beat then-No. 9 Sevilla at home (3-2, March 7) lost to then-No. 11 Olympique Lyon in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Real spotted Sporting Gijon a goal at the Bernabeu on Saturday, then scored three of their own. The result keeps the merengues first in La Liga, albeit on goal difference.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Getafe Thursday, followed by the Madrid derby on Sunday.

11. AC Milan
Last ranking: 13
Record: 20-8-11
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 8 Inter Milan (4-0, Aug. 27), won at then-No. 16 Olympique Marseille (2-1, Sept. 15), won at then-No. 2 Real Madrid (3-2, Oct. 21), drew then-No. 5 Real Madrid at home (1-1, Nov. 3), drew against then-No. 22 Olympique Marseille (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-0, Jan. 24), drew at then-No. 15 AS Roma (0-0, March 6).
Commentary/recent results: The rossoneri blew their chance to take over first place in the Serie A. After cross-town rivals Inter managed just a 1-1 draw at Palermo a victory at home vs. Napoli would have done the trick for Leonardo's men. Alas, they managed just a 1-1 draw of their own, and remain second in Serie A, a solitary point behind Inter.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Parma at midweek and host Lazio on the weekend.

12. Valencia
Last ranking: 22
Record: 21-7-10
Results of note: Defeated then-No. 9 Sevilla at home (2-0, Aug. 30), drew then-No. 1 Barcelona at home (0-0, Oct. 17), lost at home to then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-2, Dec. 12), lost at then-No. 11 Sevilla (2-1, Jan. 31), lost at then-No. 1 Barcelona (3-0, March 14).
Commentary/recent results: Los xotos had a massive week, vindicating our decision to keep them in the top 25 last week. First they played a 4-4 match at Werder Bremen, which sees them through to the Europa League quarterfinal (they'll face Atletico Madrid). Then they dropped Almeira 2-0 to strengthen their hold on third place in La Liga, which would be good enough to qualify for the Champions League next season. Valencia have a four point edge on Mallorca.
Upcoming schedule: Host Malaga at midweek and visit Saragossa on the weekend. The first leg against Atletico is a week from Thursday. Valencia host that one.

13. Olympiakos
Last ranking: 18
Record: 20-8-7
Results of note: Beat then-No. 17 AZ Alkmaar at home in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 12 Arsenal in Champions League group stage (2-0, Sept. 29), lost at then-No. 7 Girondins Bordeaux in Champions League round of 16, beat then-No. 15 Panathinaikos in Greek league match (1-0, March 21).
Commentary/recent results: A comeback against Girondins Bordeaux was not to be but Olympiakos defeated Panathinaikos yesterday to close within four points of the leaders with three matchdays remaining. the win keeps their hopes of a repeat alive. If nothing else, it's bound to be interesting.
Upcoming schedule: Host AO Xanthi on Sunday.

14. Panathinaikos
Last ranking: 15
Record: 28-8-3
Results of note: Lost Champions League qualifier with then-No. 17 Atletico Madrid (5-2 on aggregate), lost at home to then-No. 18 Galatasaray in Europa League group play (1-0, Sept. 17), lost at then-No. 19 Olympiakos (2-0, Nov. 29), beat then-No. 9 AS Roma in Europa League round of 32, lost at home to then-No. 18 Olympiakos (1-0, March 21).
Commentary/recent results: A bad, bad week for Panathinaikos, who exited the Europa League at the hands of Standard Liege, who aren't even good in the Belgian league. Then lost at home to Olympiakos to keep things interesting in the Greek Super League.
Upcoming schedule: Host PAS Ioannina in first leg of Greek cup semifinal on Wednesday. Visit Atromitos Halkidona on Sunday.

15. AS Roma
Last ranking: 16
Record: 23-7-9
Results of note: Lost at home to then-No. 5 Juventus (3-1, Aug. 30), beat then-No. 18 Fiorentina (3-1, Sept. 20), drew at then-No. 2 Inter Milan (1-1, Nov. 8), drew then-No. 12 AC Milan at home (0-0, March 6).
Commentary/recent results: Roma defeated Udinese 4-2. They make up ground on the leaders from Milan, moving within three points of AC Milan and four of Inter.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Bologna at midweek. Host Inter Milan Sunday. Will they have a chance to go first?

16. Porto
Last ranking: 14
Record: 22-7-4
Results of note: Lost at then-No. 3 Chelsea in Champions League group stage (1-0, Sept. 15), lost at home to then-No. 1 Chelsea (1-0, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 18 Benfica (1-0, Dec. 20), lost against then-No. 8 Arsenal in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: Idle
Upcoming schedule: The first leg of their Portuguese cup semifinal matchup against Rio Ave Vila do Conde. Don't ask me how these Portuguese clubs got their names. Also visit Belenenses Sunday.

17. Rubin Kazan
Last Ranking: 12
Record: 23-7-8
Results of note: In Champions League group stage lost at then-No. 20 Dynamo Kiev (3-1, Sept. 16), drew then-No. 6 Inter Milan at home (1-1, Oct. 6), won at then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Oct. 20), drew then-No. 3 Barcelona at home (0-0, Nov. 3), drew then-No. 13 Dynamo Kiev at home (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at then-No. 5 Inter Milan (2-0, Dec 9).
Commentary/recent results: The Russian champs bowed out of European competition in an extra time loss to VfL Wolfsburg.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Tom Tom tomorrow. Host Terek Grozny Sunday. I guess there is more than one place in that part of the world named Grozny, because surely they can't be talking about the Chechen capital, right?

18. CSKA Moscow
Last Ranking: -
Record: 2-1-1*
Results of note: Lost at home to then-No. 3 Man United (1-0, Oct. 21), drew then-No. 6 Man U away (3-3, Nov. 3), lost to then No. 14 Rubin Kazan in Russian supercup (1-0, March 7) defeated then-No. 11 Sevilla in Champions League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: The Russian side are clearly the biggest surprise of the second half of the European season so far, though a 3-3 result at Old Trafford (see above) should have given us reason to suspect this. As things stand it appears we had inflated Sevilla's position. But no matter, we'll see what happens in the quarterfinal against Inter. For now CSKA can enjoy their perch.
Upcoming schedule: Some Russian club, Sunday.
*Since Jan. 1, 2010

19. Olympique Marseille
Last ranking: 19
Record: 23-10-9
Results of note: Drew then-No. 12 Girondins Bordeaux at home (0-0, Aug. 30), lost at home to AC Milan (2-1, Sept. 15), lost at then-No. 1 Real Madrid (3-0, Sept. 30), drew at then-No. 12 Olympique Lyon (5-5, Nov. 8), drew at then-No. 13 AC Milan (1-1, Nov. 25), lost at then-No. 7 Real Madrid (3-1, Dec. 8), drew at then-No. 2 Bordeaux (1-1, Jan. 17), lost to then-No. 9 Benfica Lisbon in Europa League round of 16.
Commentary/recent results: L'OM got one good and one bad result last week. First the bad: Their European season is no more after a 2-1 home loss to Benfica Lisbon in the Europa League round of 16. Now the good: Marseille defeated Lyon by 2-1 to move right into the thick of the Ligue Un title race. The team from the Velodrome are third, just three points behind the leaders Montpellier and Bordeaux.
Upcoming schedule: Speaking of Bordeaux, they face les Girondins in the French league cup final on Saturday.

20. Schalke 04
Last ranking: -
Record: 20-4-7
Results of note: Drew then-No. 16 Hamburg SV at home (3-3, Oct. 25), drew at then-No. 24 Bayern Munich (1-1, Nov. 7)
Commentary/recent results: Schalke have been kept out of the Top 25 all season due to their lack of European action. Still, their record speaks for itself. So does second place in the Bundesliga and a spot in the cup semifinals. Last week they had a late 2-1 lead at Hamburg but took a late equalizer.
Upcoming schedule: Speaking of the German cup, Schalke host Bayern Munich in the semis on Saturday. Also visit Leverkusen Saturday. The league could be decided the ensuing weekend when Bayern pay a visit again.

21. Bayer Leverkusen
Last ranking: 17
Record: 14-3-11
Results of note: Won at then-No. 15 VfL Wolfsburg (3-2, Sept. 12), drew at then-No. 14 Hamburg SV (0-0, Oct. 17), drew at then-No. 24 Bayern Munich (1-1, Nov. 22).
Commentary/recent results: Bayer were defeated 3-0 at Borussia Dortmund. Their second Bundesliga loss in a row after previously not suffering one all season (that other loss was in a cup tie). Leverkusen sit third in the German first division, just three points behind leaders Bayern Munich and two behind Schalke 04.
Upcoming schedule: Host Schalke Saturday. A clash with Bayern Munich looms April 10, though it may not matter by then if this keeps up.

22. Sao Paulo
Last ranking: -
Record: 13-3-3*
Results of note: Defeated Monterrey at home in Copa Libertadores group stage (2-0, Feb. 11)
Commentary/recent results: Sao Paulo are off to a flying start in the Libertadores, where they have all but qualified for the elimination round with nine points from their first four games. In the Paulista league they are third with three matchdays remaining before the playoffs.
Upcoming schedule: More Paulista action before their Paril 1 clash at Monterrey.
*results since Jan. 1, 2010

23. Dynamo Kiev
Last ranking: 20
Record: 17-4-5
Results of note: Won home match against then-No. 22 Rubin Kazan in Champions League group stage (3-1, Sept. 16), lost at then-No. 2 Barcelona in Champions League group stage, drew at then-No. 4 Inter Milan (2-2, Oct. 20), lost at then-No. 22 Shakhtar Donetsk in domestic cup (2-0, Oct. 28), lost at home to then-No. 2 Inter Milan (2-1, Nov. 4), defeated then-No. 14 Shakhtar Donetsk (3-0, Nov. 21), drew at then-No. 8 Rubin Kazan (0-0, Nov. 24), lost at home to then-No. 1 Barcelona (2-1, Dec. 9).
Commentary/recent results: Dynamo drew Metalurg Donetsk 1-1, which cost them first place in the Ukrainian standings (to Shakhtar Donetsk).
Upcoming schedule: It's just domestic action the rest of the way, so Dynamo will have to play their cards right to keep their spot in the Top 25. Their next match against Shakhtar isn't until May 5, the penultimate match day.

24. Monterrey
Last ranking: -
Record: 11-2-6*
Results of note: Beat Club America in Interliga (Copa Libertadores qualification) tourney on penalty kicks (Jan. 14), defeated then-No. 25 Chivas at home (2-1, March 20)
Commentary/recent results: The rayados won the battle between the top two Mexican clubs. Earlier in the week they drew Once Caldas at home in Copa Libertadores action. Monterrey sit third in their Libertadores group, three points behind Caldas and four behind leaders Sao Paulo. Monterrey's only loss came at Sao Paulo.
Upcoming schedule: Visit Jaguares, Saturday. Host Sao Paulo April 1, a match they'll need to win if they want to have any hope of advancing to the elimination round.
*results since Jan. 1, 2010

25. Flamengo
Last ranking: 24
Record: 12-2-1*
Results of note: Lost at home to Botafogo in the Taca Guanabara semifinals (2-1, Feb. 17).
Commentary/recent results: Flamengo dropped a 2-1 decision at Universidad de Chile in the third Copa Libertadores matchday. They drop to second in the group (behind Universidad) as a result. They then drew at Botafogo 2-2 in the second matchday of the Taca Rio.
Upcoming schedule: Host Tigres Brasil Thursday. What is it with "Tigres" is every single Latin American country required to have at least one club of that name? Also host America RJ (see Tigres) on Sunday. The next Libertadores action isn't until April 8, when they have a chance to avenge the loss to Universidad at home.
*results since Jan. 1, 2010

Dropping Out:
Sevilla (11) after losing to CSKA Moscow in the Champions League round of 16 and at Espanyol to drop to fifth in La Liga.
Lille (21) after losing to Liverpool in the Europa League round of 16 and to Girondins Bordeaux to drop to fifth in Ligue Un.
RSC Anderlecht (23) after losing to Hamburg SV in the Europa League round of 16.
Chivas de Guadelajara (25) after losing at Monterrey.

Also receiving consideration (in rough order of consideration received):
Tottenham Hotspur

Photo taken from ESPNstar.com piece without permission.