Top 10 Playmakers in the World (2024)

According to the IFFHS, the organisation that ranks playmakers and presents the annual Playmaker of the Year award, the top 10 best playmakers of 2024 have been revealed.

The art of playmaking is a rare gift, and in 2024, these 10 players have mastered it better than anyone else. From goals and assists to their influence on the biggest stages, here is a countdown of the world’s best midfield creators.

10. Martin Ødegaard (Norway — Arsenal)

 

The Norwegian maestro has been at the heart of Arsenal’s resurgence in the Premier League. As captain, Ødegaard has provided leadership and creativity, recording 12 goals and 15 assists in two seasons. His intelligent passing and vision have made him the focal point of Mikel Arteta’s system, helping Arsenal challenge for trophies both domestically and in Europe.

9. Hakan Çalhanoğlu (Turkey — Inter Milan)

Known for his deadly set-pieces and pinpoint long-range passing, Çalhanoğlu has been instrumental for Inter Milan this season. He’s contributed 25 assists in the last two Serie A season and  plays a crucial role in transitioning defence into attack. His versatility allows him to shine in deeper roles while maintaining his creative flair.

8. James Rodríguez (Colombia — Rayo Vallecano)

James Rodríguez rediscovered his best form during the 2024 Copa América, where he was named Player of the Tournament. He provided 6 assists—the most by any player in the competition—proving that his technical quality and eye for the decisive pass remain intact.

7. Florian Wirtz (Germany — Bayer Leverkusen)

The 21-year-old sensation is Germany’s next great hope. Wirtz has produced 16 assists in 2024, establishing himself as one of Europe’s brightest young stars. His quick decision-making and ability to unlock defences have made him a nightmare for opponents. Bayer Leverkusen’s recent success owes a lot to his brilliance.

6. Dani Olmo (Spain — FC Barcelona)

The new Barcelona star, Dani Olmo, has quickly become a standout with his creativity and technical finesse. He enjoyed an outstanding 2024 EURO campaign, excelling in both chance creation and goal-scoring. As the tournament’s joint top scorer, he played a pivotal role in leading Spain to victory. His versatility enables him to find pockets of space and create opportunities out of nothing.

5. Lionel Messi (Argentina — Inter Miami)

Even at 36, Messi continues to mesmerise. Since joining Inter Miami, he has scored 20 goals and provided 10 assists in MLS in 2024. His ability to dictate play and deliver key moments has lifted Miami to new heights, including their Leagues Cup and Supporters’ Shield title. Messi’s ability to read the game remains unmatched, and his influence in MLS has been profound.

4. Jamal Musiala (Germany — Bayern Munich)

Musiala’s mix of agility, dribbling, and vision has made him one of the most exciting talents in the world. At just 21 years old, he has registered 14 goals and 6 assists this season. His ability to take on defenders and create chances has made him Bayern Munich’s creative spark.

3. Toni Kroos (Germany)

The legendary midfielder retired from football after the 2024 UEFA Euro Cup, leaving behind an illustrious career. Known for his composure and football IQ, Kroos consistently dictated games with ease. During his time at Real Madrid, he maintained an incredible passing accuracy of 94%, solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest midfield conductors of his generation.

2. Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium — Manchester City)

Despite battling injuries this year, De Bruyne remains a magician. In 2024, he’s provided 19 assists and 6 goals. His ability to deliver killer passes, whether from deep or in the final third, makes him City’s creative heartbeat. De Bruyne’s influence was key in their treble-winning campaign last season, and he shows no signs of slowing down.

1. Jude Bellingham (England — Real Madrid)

The crown belongs to Jude Bellingham, who has taken the football world by storm in 2024. At only 21 years old, he has scored 30 goals and provided 19 assists since joining Real Madrid, dominating midfields in both La Liga and the Champions League.
His combination of physicality, skill, and intelligence is redefining what a playmaker can be. Bellingham’s ability to both create and finish chances has made him Real Madrid’s standout player this season.