Assists are key in determining which players can deliver the final ball, which leads to the goal. Some players across Europe’s top five leagues have cemented themselves as key chance creators, and are just as important as goalscorers. Here are the top ten players with the most assists in 2021.
Top 10 assist providers in Europe’s top five leagues in 2021
10. Nicolo Barella: 16 assists
The Inter Milan midfielder ended 2021 with 16 assists to his name, among the highest in Serie A. He also penned a new deal with Inter, and is set for a very bright future with the Nerazzurri.
10. Duvan Zapata: 16 assists
Zapata often plays as the striker in Gian Piero Gasperini’s Atalanta formation. But, he has just as many assists as Barella in 2021. The forward has been a key figure in the emergence of La Dea as a European team.
10. Erling Haaland: 16 assists
Watch out 2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣2️⃣ because I'm coming for you! 🔜🔥 pic.twitter.com/vSb6rWquJN
— Erling Haaland (@ErlingHaaland) December 31, 2021
The Norwegian striker not only has an unbelievable goalscoring record with Borussia Dortmund, but also has a number of assists to his name. At 21, he is already among the best in the world, with his inclusion in the list.
9. Trent Alexander-Arnold: 16 assists
The Liverpool right-back is arguably the best in the world in his position. After returning from injury during the early parts of the year, he is back to his best on the right side of the defense.
8. Moussa Diaby: 17 assists
The Bayer Leverkusen winger has been under the radar, but has notched more assists than Haaland, Alexander-Arnold, Zapata and Barella.
7. Christopher Nkunku: 17 assists
The RB Leipzig midfielder has started making waves and earning a reputation in Europe. He can assist goals, as shown by his presence, and can also take the chances himself.
6. Bruno Fernandes: 18 assists
The Manchester United midfielder has not been at his best recently, but was the main man for the Red Devils during the early part of the year. He remains one of the best attacking midfielders in the world regardless.
5. Leroy Sane: 19 assists
The Bayern Munich winger has flown under the radar since his move to Manchester City. But, he has provided one of the highest number of assists in Europe’s big leagues. The German winger is proving his worth for Die Roten now.
4. Kylian Mbappe: 22 assists
Not only is the Frenchman a clinical finisher, but he also has the ability to put in a great final ball. He has 22 assists in 2021, alongside a plethora of goals in the domestic league.
3. Marco Reus: 22 assists
Borussia Dortmund’s captain continues to deliver, as Reus has one of the highest assists in all of Europe’s biggest leagues. While Borussia Dortmund haven’t been at their best, Reus continues to be a talismanic figure as their leader.
2. Filip Kostic: 27 assists
The Serbian international is the surprise entry, and has 27 assists in 2021. He plays as a winger for Eintracht Frankfurt, and is a creative force for the team.
1. Thomas Muller: 32 assists
One of the most unique players in the world, Thomas Muller completes the trio of Bundesliga players topping the list. He has now turned into one of the best providers in the world, clearly backed up by the stats this year.
