A box-to-box midfielder is the engine of a football team. Tasked with covering large areas of the pitch, they must contribute defensively, dictate the tempo, and provide attacking support. The best in this role possess a blend of stamina, tactical intelligence, technical ability, and physical presence.
In 2025, these ten midfielders have proven themselves to be the best box to box midfielders in the world, excelling in every phase of the game.
10. Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool, 24 years old)
Szoboszlai has added a new level of dynamism to Liverpool’s midfield. His ability to drive forward with the ball, shoot from distance, and deliver in high-intensity matches makes him an invaluable asset.
• 2024/25 Stats: 7 goals, 5 assists, 5.3 progressive passes per game
• Notable Strengths: Ball carrying, long-range shooting, pressing intensity
• Defensive Contributions: 1.1 tackles per game, 0.5 interceptions
9. Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle United, 27 years old)
Guimarães is the core of Newcastle’s midfield. He controls the tempo of the game, winning defensive duels while maintaining composure in possession. His ability to distribute the ball effectively and shield the backline makes him one of the most well-rounded midfielders.
• 2024/25 Stats: 2 goals, 8 assists, 2.4 tackles per game
• Notable Strengths: Defensive intelligence, passing range, composure under pressure
• Pass Completion: 82%
8. Scott McTominay (Napoli, 28 years old)
McTominay has developed into a midfielder with a unique skill set. His physical presence, late runs into the box, and aerial dominance make him a serious goal threat, while his defensive work ensures he remains effective in transition.
• 2024/25 Stats: 7 goals, 2 assists, 1.4 tackles per game
• Notable Strengths: Aerial duels, box-to-box movement, physicality
• Duels Won: 88%
7. Enzo Fernández (Chelsea, 24 years old)
Despite Chelsea’s good and bad performances, Fernández has been a standout performer, showcasing elite passing and defensive awareness. His ability to link defence to attack and break opposition lines with precise passing makes him one of the best midfielders in his role.
• 2024/25 Stats: 4 goals, 8 assists, 7.1 progressive passes per game
• Notable Strengths: Vision, passing accuracy, composure under pressure
• Tackles Won: 2.2 per game
6. Nicolò Barella (Inter Milan, 28 years old)
Barella embodies everything needed in a box-to-box midfielder—relentless energy, technical quality, and tactical discipline. He is equally effective in winning back possession and progressing play, making him one of Serie A’s most complete players.
• 2024/25 Stats: 3 goals, 6 assists, 8.11 progressive passes per game
• Notable Strengths: Stamina, progressive passing, link-up play
• Key Passes per Game: 1.8
5. Declan Rice (Arsenal, 26 years old)
Rice has evolved into a true all-round midfielder, combining defensive dominance with an increasing attacking influence. His leadership, physical presence, and positional awareness make him the foundation of Arsenal’s midfield.
• 2024/25 Stats: 3 goals, 7 assists, 2.74 progressive carries per game
• Notable Strengths: Defensive positioning, leadership, progressive passing
• Duels Won: 1.1 per game
4. Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United, 30 years old)
Fernandes continues to be the creative force for Manchester United. His vision, ability to score from midfield, and relentless pressing make him a key player in all phases of play. He is one of the midfielders in the world that creates many chances and work so hard for the team.
• 2024/25 Stats: 11 goals, 13 assists, 3.7 key passes per game
• Notable Strengths: Creativity, leadership, high pressing intensity
• Chances Created: 59 (3rd in Premier League)
3. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid, 21 years old)
Bellingham’s ability to influence games at both ends of the pitch makes him one of the most dominant midfielders in football. His goal-scoring ability, defensive awareness, and intelligence in transitions set him apart from most midfielders his age.
• 2024/25 Stats: 11 goals, 11 assists, 4.96 progressive carries per game
• Notable Strengths: Goal-scoring, physicality, box presence
• Tackles Won: 2.09 per game
2. Federico Valverde (Real Madrid, 26 years old)
Valverde is the ultimate modern midfielder. His ability to cover immense distances, drive forward with the ball, and contribute in both defensive and attacking transitions makes him one of the most complete players in world football.
• 2024/25 Stats: 8 goals, 6 assists, 8.2 km covered per game
• Notable Strengths: Endless stamina, versatility, long-range shooting
• Interceptions: 1.6 per game
1. Pedri (Barcelona, 22 years old)
Pedri’s intelligence, technical ability, and ability to control games make him the most complete box-to-box midfielder in football right now. His ability to dictate the tempo, progress play, and contribute in attacking areas gives Barcelona complete control of matches.
• 2024/25 Stats: 5 goals, 6 assists, 88% pass accuracy
• Notable Strengths: Intelligence, composure, playmaking vision
• Progressive carries: 2.3 per games
