The 10 Greatest Attacking Midfielders in Football History

June 22, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Some of the most iconic footballers to ever grace the pitch have operated from the No. 10 role. Combining creativity, vision, and goal threat, attacking midfielders have shaped the modern game. Here, we rank the very best to ever play the position – starting from No. 10.

10. Michael Laudrup

One of the most gifted Danish players in history, Laudrup was elegance in motion. With extraordinary vision and flawless technique, he orchestrated play with grace at clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Juventus. His creativity and calmness under pressure made him a nightmare for defenders.

9. Zico

Nicknamed the “White Pelé,” Zico was Brazil’s maestro in the 1970s and 80s. A prolific goal-scorer and passer, he dazzled for Flamengo and Udinese with his vision, free-kicks, and pinpoint passes. Though he never won a World Cup, his impact on the game was immense.

8. Kevin De Bruyne

Arguably the best midfielder of his generation, De Bruyne is a creative genius with both feet. His incredible passing range and ability to deliver assists in any scenario have made him a Premier League legend. With multiple domestic titles and a Champions League to his name, his legacy keeps growing.

7. Ruud Gullit

A powerful and technically brilliant player, Gullit was a force in midfield. Winning the Ballon d’Or in 1987, he thrived in both attacking and box-to-box roles. With his athleticism and intelligence, he led the Netherlands to Euro 1988 glory and dominated for AC Milan.

6. Michel Platini

Platini was the ultimate midfield technician of the 1980s. With three straight Ballon d'Or wins and a pivotal role in France’s Euro 1984 triumph, he combined goal-scoring prowess with supreme vision. His influence on the pitch was matched by his later work in football governance.

5. Sir Bobby Charlton

A legend at Manchester United and a World Cup hero for England, Charlton was a complete attacking midfielder. Known for his powerful shots and leadership, he won the Ballon d’Or in 1966. His elegance and long-range strikes remain iconic to this day.

4. Andrés Iniesta

Iniesta’s intelligence, close control, and clutch performances defined a golden era for both Barcelona and Spain. He scored the winning goal in the 2010 World Cup final and played a key role in multiple Champions League triumphs. One of the most technically gifted players ever.

3. Johan Cruyff

Cruyff revolutionized football with his skill and vision. A genius on and off the ball, he led Ajax and Barcelona with flair and intelligence. The "Cruyff Turn" is a symbol of his brilliance, and his tactical influence shaped modern football long after his playing days ended.

2. Zinedine Zidane

A true artist on the ball, Zidane combined strength, technique, and elegance. He won the World Cup, Champions League, and three FIFA World Player of the Year awards. His volley in the 2002 Champions League final is one of the most iconic goals in history.

1. Diego Maradona

The greatest No. 10 the game has ever seen. Maradona had unrivaled dribbling ability, extraordinary vision, and the charisma to carry entire teams on his back. His 1986 World Cup performance remains legendary – a perfect display of individual brilliance and leadership.