Midfielders are the heartbeat of any football team, bridging the gap between defense and attack while controlling the tempo of play. In the modern game, midfielders are no longer confined to a single role; instead, they are categorized based on their tactical responsibilities, positioning, and unique skill sets. A team’s success often hinges on the effectiveness of its midfield, making it the most versatile and demanding position on the pitch.
Broadly, midfielders can be classified into several types, each with distinct attributes and contributions. Defensive midfielders (CDMs) act as the shield in front of the backline, breaking up opposition attacks and providing a secure base for possession. Players like Declan Rice and Joshua Kimmich thrive in this role, excelling in ball recovery, interceptions, and distributing play efficiently. Their primary responsibility is to offer defensive stability, but many modern CDMs also contribute to ball progression and deep playmaking.
Box-to-box midfielders cover the entire pitch, contributing in both defensive and attacking phases. They must possess high stamina, tactical awareness, and the ability to transition quickly between roles. Players like Federico Valverde and Ryan Gravenberch fit this mold, combining physicality with technical ability to drive their teams forward while also tracking back to provide defensive support.
Deep-lying playmakers (Registas) operate from a deeper midfield position, orchestrating play with their passing range and vision. Unlike defensive midfielders, their primary focus is not breaking up play but dictating the game’s tempo. Granit Xhaka and Enzo Fernández are prime examples of midfielders who excel in controlling possession and launching attacks from deep areas.
Attacking midfielders (Number 10s) are the creative spark of a team, operating behind the strikers to unlock defenses with their vision, dribbling, and goal-scoring ability. These midfielders are often the most technically gifted, capable of producing moments of brilliance that can change a game. Players like Bruno Fernandes, Jamal Musiala, and Cole Palmer thrive in this role, frequently contributing with assists and goals while linking midfield with the attacking line.
Another key role is that of the Mezzala, a hybrid midfielder who drifts into wide areas to create overloads and exploit spaces between the opposition’s midfield and defense. Nicolò Barella and Vitinha excel in this role, combining agility, passing precision, and off-the-ball movement to stretch defenses and open up attacking opportunities.
In today’s game, many midfielders are not confined to a single role but rather adapt based on tactical setups and match situations. The evolution of the position has led to players with well-rounded skill sets capable of defending, creating, and scoring goals. The best midfielders can influence all phases of the game, making them indispensable to their teams.
As the 2025 season unfolds, we have seen some of the world’s top midfielders excel across different leagues. From young talents like João Neves and Florian Wirtz to established stars like Pedri and Jude Bellingham, these players continue to redefine the role of a modern midfielder. This article ranks and analyzes the best midfielders of the season, highlighting their individual contributions and impact on their respective teams.
20. Enzo Fernández (Chelsea & Argentina)
Enzo Fernández continues to show why Chelsea invested heavily in him. While Chelsea has struggled for consistency, Enzo’s passing range, defensive work, and ability to dictate play from deep have stood out. He has been one of Chelsea’s most reliable midfielders, contributing to both defensive stability and attacking buildup.
When he first joined in January 2023, Fernandez was used by then-manager Graham Potter as the deepest midfielder in a double pivot.
Attacking stacking this season
4 Goals
8 Assists
84% pass accuracy
36 Tackle won
59 Chances created
19. James Maddison (Tottenham & England)
James Maddison has been a key playmaker for Tottenham this season, bringing creativity and goal-scoring ability to their midfield. Despite injuries, he has contributed significantly with goals and assists, helping Spurs push for a top-four finish.
His vision, set-piece delivery, and dribbling make him a crucial asset in attacking transitions.
Having been the third player in premier with the best conversion rate this season he’s also scored 10 goals and 7 assists across all competitions.
86% pass accuracy, 38 chances created, 29 successful dribble. He’s incredible.
18. João Neves (Paris Saint German & Portugal)
Since his arrival at Paris Saint-Germain, João Neves has quickly become a pivotal figure in Luis Enrique’s team. The young midfielder started his time with the capital club in sensational fashion, becoming the only player to have registered four assists after two games in the last 20 Ligue 1 seasons. Since then, the Portugal international has grabbed 4 goals and 9 assists across all competitions so far this season.
He’s not to be judged by his attacking stats only he had 91% pass accuracy, 15 successful dribble , 38 chances created & he’s young and has room for improvement.
17. Declan Rice (Arsenal & England)
With odeegard out of from , Arsenal attack on injury bed— all these has make Declan rice even more visible both in Arsenal’s attacks and defense.
Declan Rice’s move to Arsenal has been seamless. His defensive acumen and ability to break up play have strengthened Arsenal’s midfield, providing a solid foundation for their attacking endeavors.
This season Declan rice has scored 3 goals , 7 assists, 90% pass accuracy, 50 chances created , 12 successful dribble and 145 recoveries across premier league and Champions league this season.
16. Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich & Germany)
Joshua Kimmich is one of the most versatile footballers on the planet. The German international can play in any position across midfield and can also fill in at right-back. Kimmich is one of the best deep-lying playmakers in the game right now.
Kimmich’s ball-playing qualities are elite and has scored one goals and provided 9 assists in 36 appearances across all competitions for the Bavarians this season.
Beyond that , he had 93% pass accuracy , 133 long ball and 2,2288 in Bundesliga this season
15. Granit Xhaka (Bayer Leverkusen & Switzerland)
Granit Xhaka’s resurgence at Bayer Leverkusen has been transformative. His role in Leverkusen’s Bundesliga-winning campaign cannot be overstated, as he consistently delivered commanding performances in the heart of midfield.
His best season in Germany is 2014/15 season for Borussia Mönchengladbach
When he scored 5 goals and 2 assists but this season for Bayern lewankysen he’s already had 9 goal contributions. One of the best box to box midfielders.
14. Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool & Argentina)
Alexis Mac Allister’s move to Liverpool from Brighton has seen him take on a more reserved role in midfield, but his performances have only grown in stature.
This midfielder has been a key presence in both attacking and defensive phases of play. With an impressive 87.5% pass accuracy and 63.4% long ball accuracy, they have been a reliable distributor, creating 33 chances and delivering 9 successful crosses. Their influence in possession is evident, recording 1541 touches, including 51 in the opposition box, though their 40.6% dribble success rate suggests room for improvement in take-ons. Defensively, they have been strong, winning 47 tackles with a 62.7% success rate and dominating duels with 136 won. Their well-rounded contributions make them a crucial asset in midfield.
13. Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle United & Brazil)
Since joining Newcastle United, Bruno Guimarães has been transformative. The Brazilian midfielder is the heartbeat of Eddie Howe’s side, excelling as both a creator and a defensive shield.
In premier league, this midfielder has been a key presence on both ends of the pitch, excelling in defensive contributions and creative play. He has won 185 duels and made 129 recoveries, highlighting his strength in regaining possession. With 6 assists, 36 chances created, and an expected assists (xA) of 4.13, he plays a crucial role in attack. His passing accuracy stands at 83.4%, with 61 accurate long balls, showcasing his ability to distribute play effectively. Additionally, his dribbling success rate of 56.8% and 25 successful dribbles underline his ability to drive forward with the ball.
12. Rodrigo De Paul (Atlético Madrid & Argentina)
Rodrigo De Paul is the embodiment of Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid ethos: relentless work rate, tactical intelligence, and a fiery passion. He’s the engine room maestro, the player who tirelessly covers every blade of grass, breaking up opposition plays and launching swift counter-attacks.
His vision is sharp, his ball-winning ability tenacious, and his commitment to the team is unwavering. What truly elevates De Paul is his surprising offensive output. Eight goals this season, from a typically deeper midfield role, speak volumes about his ability to contribute in the final third. He’s not just a destroyer; he’s a creator, a player who understands the balance between defensive solidity and attacking threat, making him indispensable to Simeone’s demanding system.
11. Cole Palmer (Chelsea & England)
Cole Palmer’s arrival at Chelsea has been nothing short of sensational. He’s not just a promising talent; he’s a rising star illuminating Stamford Bridge. Following his breakout Premier League campaign, Palmer has continued to shine, proving his debut season was no fluke. His 14 goals and 6 assists this season highlight his versatility and attacking prowess.
He’s a dynamic attacking midfielder who can create something out of nothing, possessing a composure and maturity beyond his years. He’s quickly become a fan favorite, a player who brings excitement and hope to a team in transition. Palmer’s impact is undeniable, and his future looks incredibly bright.
10. Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich & Germany)
Jamal Musiala is a spectacle to behold, a player who dances through defenses with effortless grace. His agility and ball control are simply mesmerizing, making him a nightmare for any opponent. He’s not just a dribbler, though; he’s a highly effective attacker, evidenced by his impressive tally of 16 goals and 5 assists this season. Musiala’s influence on Bayern Munich and the German national team is undeniable. He’s a creative force, a player who can unlock defenses with a moment of brilliance. He possesses a rare blend of technical skill, vision, and composure, making him one of the most exciting young talents in world football. He is a player that demands attention anytime he is on the pitch.
9. Nicolò Barella (Inter Milan & Italy)
Nicolò Barella embodies everything you want in a modern midfielder: energy, aggression, and technical excellence. His relentless pressing and quick transitions make him a nightmare for opposition defenses.
Nicolo Barella’s pivotal role in Inter Milan’s recent successes, including their Champions League final appearance and Serie A title, solidifies his status as a world-class midfielder.
His contribution to Italy’s Euro 2020 victory further underscores his elite level, proving his consistent excellence in Serie A and European competitions, regardless of potential Premier League moves.
8. Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain & Portugal)
Vitinha’s performances for PSG have been marked by his technical proficiency and ability to control the midfield. His passing accuracy and vision have been instrumental in transitioning play from defense to attack .
7. Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United & Portugal)
Bruno Fernandes, in the midst of Manchester United’s fluctuating fortunes, has been a constant source of inspiration, a flickering flame of creativity in what has often been a turbulent sea. While the team’s overall performances have been inconsistent, Fernandes has consistently delivered, demonstrating a level of dedication and passion that’s truly commendable.
He’s the player who shoulders the creative burden, the one who always looks to unlock defenses with his vision and pinpoint passes. His 11 goals and 13 assists across all competitions are a testament to his attacking prowess, but his influence extends far beyond mere statistics. He’s the driving force behind United’s attacking play, the player who injects urgency and purpose into their movements. Even when the team is struggling, he never hides, always demanding the ball and looking to make something happen.
There’s a certain raw emotion to his play, a visible frustration when things aren’t going well, but also an infectious enthusiasm when they are. He’s a leader on the pitch, someone who sets the standard with his work ethic and his unwavering belief in his abilities.
6. Dani Ceballos (Real Madrid & Spain)
Dani Ceballos, for those who’ve watched him closely, isn’t just another cog in Real Madrid’s star-studded machine; he’s the architect. He’s the player who, when given the opportunity, paints the canvas of the midfield with intricate passes and a subtle control that belies his often fiery temperament. While he might not always grab the headlines with thunderous goals or flashy assists, his value lies in the delicate balance he brings to the team.
Think of him as the metronome. He dictates the tempo, knowing when to accelerate the play with a sharp, incisive pass and when to slow things down, allowing his teammates to regroup and find their rhythm.
His ability to seamlessly transition from defense to attack, often weaving through tight spaces with his deft dribbling, is a testament to his technical prowess. It’s this ability to link play, to be the bridge between the backline and the forwards, that makes him so valuable to Real Madrid, particularly in matches where possession is paramount.
5. Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool & Netherlands)
Ryan Gravenberch’s presence at Liverpool has become increasingly significant under new manager Arne Slot. As the Dutch tactician implements his philosophy at Anfield, Gravenberch’s skill set aligns well with the fluid, high-intensity style Slot prefers. His box-to-box capabilities, composure on the ball, and ability to break lines with his dribbling make him a valuable asset in the midfield rebuild.
Slot’s tactical approach demands midfielders who can retain possession under pressure, progress the ball quickly, and contribute both offensively and defensively—all qualities that Gravenberch possesses. His physical presence allows him to cover ground effectively, while his technical ability and vision enable him to play incisive passes and support attacking movements. Though still adapting to Slot’s system, Gravenberch has shown flashes of his potential, particularly in transition play and breaking defensive lines with his intelligent movement.
With Slot focusing on a more possession-based, structured approach, Gravenberch’s ability to keep the ball moving and contribute in both phases of play has been a key feature. As he gains more minutes and settles into the new system, he is expected to play an increasingly pivotal role in Liverpool’s midfield evolution under Slot.
4. Florian Wirtz (Bayer Leverkusen & Germany)
Florian Wirtz has been the creative heartbeat of Bayer Leverkusen’s remarkable season. His 15 goals and 12 assists are a testament to his attacking output, but it’s his vision and creativity that truly define his role.
Wirtz is a master of unlocking defenses, threading intricate passes and creating space for his teammates. He operates with a level of composure and intelligence that belies his age, dictating the tempo of the game and orchestrating Leverkusen’s attacking play. His ability to find pockets of space, coupled with his precise passing and dribbling, makes him a constant threat. Wirtz is not just a playmaker; he’s a game-changer, capable of turning matches with moments of brilliance.
His understanding of space and his ability to anticipate the movement of his teammates make him a pivotal figure in Xabi Alonso’s tactical setup. The way he sees the game, his ability to execute the perfect pass, and his consistent output shows a player of rare quality.
3. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid & England)
Jude Bellingham’s transition to Real Madrid has been nothing short of a revelation. At just 21, he’s not merely settled into the Bernabéu; he’s taken command. The numbers speak volumes: 22 goal contributions this season, a figure that underscores his remarkable ability to impact games in the final third. But statistics alone don’t capture the essence of Bellingham’s influence. It’s the maturity, the tactical awareness, and the sheer physicality that set him apart.
He’s a complete midfielder, capable of breaking up play, driving forward with purpose, and delivering decisive passes or finishes. His seamless integration into Real Madrid’s midfield, a unit already brimming with talent, is a testament to his exceptional quality. Bellingham’s blend of intelligence—knowing when to press, when to hold, when to release the ball—and his natural leadership qualities suggest a player destined for greatness.
2. Federico Valverde (Real Madrid & Uruguay)
Federico Valverde’s importance to Real Madrid is defined by his exceptional versatility. He is not confined to a single midfield role, demonstrating a capacity to adapt to diverse tactical demands. This adaptability has been a key asset for Real Madrid, allowing them to adjust their formations and strategies according to the opposition.
Valverde’s contributions span both defensive and offensive phases of play. Defensively, he exhibits a high work rate, contributing to interceptions and recoveries. Offensively, he is known for his powerful runs and ability to drive the ball forward, creating attacking opportunities. His long-range shooting is also a notable aspect of his game. His ability to cover significant ground allows him to contribute effectively in multiple areas of the pitch.
He is a player that can be relied upon to perform the role that is needed for the team, whether that is a wide midfielder, a central midfielder, or in a more defensive role. His consistency is a key factor in his value to the team. He’s involved in 14 goals for Real Madrid across all competitions this season.
1. Pedri (Barcelona & Spain)
Pedri’s role within Barcelona’s midfield remains pivotal, acting as the primary creative force. His impact stems from a unique blend of technical proficiency and tactical awareness.
Pedri excels in navigating confined spaces, a crucial attribute within Barcelona’s possession-oriented system. His ability to execute intricate passes and maintain possession under pressure is a defining characteristic.
This season, his contribution has been marked by his consistent ability to initiate attacking sequences, often through precise through balls and calculated dribbling. While statistical outputs like goals and assists are part of the assessment, Pedri’s true value lies in his orchestration of play.
His vision allows him to identify and exploit gaps in opposition defenses, creating opportunities for teammates. His capacity to control the tempo of the game, dictating the flow of possession, is a critical component of Barcelona’s strategic approach. In a tactical system that emphasizes intricate passing and positional play, Pedri’s ability to execute these principles is essential. He’s involved in 11 goals for Barcelona this season across all competitions.
