As the days get shorter and colder and the group stage concludes, the continent’s best No10s distract us from the wintery gloom with their precious skills. This issue celebrates the playmakers, past and present, who have delighted us with their creativity, vision and joyous mastery of the ball. Displaying an artist’s sensitivity among workhorses and hatchet men, they sway in and out of tactical fashion, often infuriate their coaches and frustrate fans, but truly possess something special. Let’s marvel at the playmakers who have lit up the European Cup and UEFA Champions League with their rare sorcery. Is your favourite in our top 50?