The classic No. 10 role — the creative engine behind the attack — has become increasingly rare in today’s tactical landscape. As many teams shift toward systems that rely more on wide play and double pivots, traditional attacking midfielders have had to evolve or fade. Yet, a handful of exceptional talents continue to shine in the position, proving that vision, flair, and final-third creativity are still game-changers in modern football.
In this list, we celebrate the top 10 attacking midfielders of the 2024/25 season — players who are thriving in the “dying” role and redefining what it means to be a playmaker in today’s fast-paced game.
10. Nico Paz
After leaving Real Madrid in 2024, Nico Paz joined Serie A newcomers Como, now coached by Cesc Fàbregas. The Argentine midfielder has quickly become a key player, contributing goals(6) and assists(8) while showing off his technical skill and dribbling ability. His creativity and confidence on the ball have helped Como stay competitive in Italy’s top flight, and he’s already caught the eye of bigger clubs again.
9. Xavi Simons
Xavi Simons has had a mixed 2024/25 season at RB Leipzig. After a stellar previous campaign, his goal contributions have slightly dipped, recording 11 goals and 8 assists across all competitions. Despite the team’s overall challenges, Simons remains a dynamic presence in midfield, known for his dribbling and vision. His performances continue to attract attention from top European clubs, and his potential remains undeniable.
8. Isco
Isco has experienced a renaissance at Real Betis this season. Leading the team with 12 goals and 11 assists, he’s been instrumental in their attacking play. His creativity and experience have been vital in Betis’s journey to the UEFA Conference League final. Isco’s ability to control the tempo and deliver decisive passes has reestablished him as one of La Liga’s premier playmakers.
7. Martin Odegaard
Arsenal’s captain, Martin Ødegaard, continues to be a linchpin in their midfield. This season, he’s tallied 6 goals and 12 assists, showcasing his knack for unlocking defenses. Beyond statistics, Ødegaard’s leadership and work ethic set the tone for the Gunners. His vision and passing range have been crucial in Arsenal’s domestic and European campaigns.
6. Jamal Musiala
Jamal Musiala has solidified his reputation as one of Europe’s brightest talents. With 18 goals and 8 assists this season, his dribbling and agility have been a nightmare for defenders. Musiala’s ability to operate between the lines and his composure in front of goal make him a standout in Bayern’s attacking setup. His performances have been pivotal in Bayern’s pursuit of silverware.
5. Florian Wirtz
Florian Wirtz has been at the heart of Bayer Leverkusen’s fairytale 2024/25 campaign. At just 21, he’s already among the elite playmakers in world football. This season, he’s notched 16 goals and 15 assists, playing a vital role in helping Leverkusen dominate both domestically and in Europe. Wirtz combines vision, composure, and elegance on the ball, often dictating tempo from central spaces. His ability to thread passes and score from distance makes him a complete No. 10 — and a nightmare for opposition defenders.
4. Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer has been Chelsea’s standout player this season, delivering beyond all expectations. After joining from Manchester City, Palmer has exploded with 15 goals and 12 assists in all competitions (Premier League and cups), becoming a talisman for the Blues. His intelligent movement, left-footed precision, and calmness under pressure have given Chelsea the cutting edge they previously lacked. At just 22, he’s shown the mentality and technical quality of a seasoned professional, with many already calling him England’s future attacking lynchpin.
3. Bruno Fernandes
Despite Manchester United’s turbulent season, Bruno Fernandes has remained their most influential and consistent player. Operating primarily as a central attacking midfielder, he’s contributed 19 goals and 19 assists in all competitions, showcasing his world-class passing range, work rate, and leadership. Bruno’s creativity is unmatched at Old Trafford, with his eye for key passes and set-piece threat keeping United in contention during tough spells. His ability to change games in an instant still makes him one of the most relentless midfielders in the game.
2. Dani Olmo
When fit, Dani Olmo has been electric. The Spanish playmaker has dazzled in the Bundesliga and Champions League, registeringThe The The 12 goals and 7 assists despite missing parts of the season due to injury. Olmo’s technical sharpness, versatility, and football IQ make him the ultimate attacking threat — capable of playing wide, centrally, or as a second striker. What sets him apart is his intelligent off-the-ball movement and ability to create space for others, all while being a dangerous finisher himself. With his current form, he’s rightly at the top of this list.
2. Jude Bellingham
Jude Bellingham’s evolution at Real Madrid has been nothing short of phenomenal. Transitioning from a box-to-box midfielder to an advanced attacking role, Bellingham has responded with 14 goals and 14 assists, dominating both La Liga and the Champions League. His ability to time late runs into the box, absorb pressure, and deliver in clutch moments has earned him comparisons to midfield legends. At just 21, he’s already a leader on the pitch — combining power, flair, and composure in a way rarely seen at this age.
