The top 15 midfielders in world football, ranked (2025)
Midfielders are the backbone of any top team—dictating tempo, breaking lines, and deciding matches on both ends of the pitch. In 2025, the role is more versatile and demanding than ever. From deep-lying passers to attacking maestros, here are the top 15 midfielders in the world right now, counted down from 15 to 1.
15. Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United & Portugal
Bruno Fernandes remains one of the most statistically dominant midfielders in the game. Known for his goal contributions and eye for a killer pass, he's been a leader for Manchester United and continues to be a key figure for Portugal.
14. Dominik Szoboszlai – Liverpool & Hungary
Szoboszlai has added final product to his incredible energy and work rate at Liverpool. With clutch goals against top teams and the ability to fill multiple roles, he’s proven to be much more than a system player.
13. Scott McTominay – Napoli & Scotland
McTominay has completely reinvented himself in Italy under Antonio Conte. With a career-best season at Napoli, he’s gone from Old Trafford scapegoat to Serie A MVP and Scudetto winner.
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12. Bruno Guimaraes – Newcastle & Brazil
Bruno Guimaraes has been Newcastle’s most influential signing since their takeover, anchoring the midfield with class and grit. His loyalty and leadership were rewarded when he captained the club to a long-awaited trophy.
11. Fabian Ruiz – Paris Saint-Germain & Spain
Ruiz is a quiet operator who brings balance and intelligence to a star-studded PSG side. After helping them to a treble and shining for Spain at Euro 2024, his value is clearer than ever.
10. Federico Valverde – Real Madrid & Uruguay
Valverde is the ultimate utility midfielder, combining pace, power, and work ethic. Trusted in multiple roles by his coaches, he's a vital piece of both Real Madrid and Uruguay’s setups.
9. Joao Neves – Paris Saint-Germain & Portugal
Joao Neves may not grab headlines, but his calmness in possession and tactical discipline are elite. Still just 21, he was a key figure in PSG’s first-ever Champions League triumph.
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8. Rodri – Manchester City & Spain
Rodri is the definition of a complete midfielder, combining defensive solidity with attacking contributions. Though not at his peak lately, he’s still the foundation of City’s system and Spain’s Euro 2024 hero.
7. Jamal Musiala – Bayern Munich & Germany
Musiala dazzles with his dribbling and creativity, making him one of the brightest young stars in the world. Injuries have slowed him recently, but when fit, he’s nearly unstoppable in the final third.
6. Ryan Gravenberch – Liverpool & Netherlands
Gravenberch has thrived under Arne Slot, revitalising his career and becoming Liverpool’s midfield dynamo. His blend of power, composure, and flair has drawn comparisons to legends—and he's just getting started.
5. Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid & England
Bellingham’s maturity and drive have already made him a leader at Real Madrid. A Champions League winner and one of England’s brightest hopes, he continues to exceed expectations for a player so young.
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4. Vitinha – Paris Saint-Germain & Portugal
Vitinha’s technical intelligence and control in tight spaces elevate PSG’s midfield. From benchwarmer in England to Champions League winner, his transformation has been nothing short of remarkable.
3. Declan Rice – Arsenal & England
Rice has become one of the most dependable midfielders in world football, anchoring Arsenal with strength and vision. His ability to dominate games makes him a constant presence for both club and country.
2. Moises Caicedo – Chelsea & Ecuador
After a tough start at Chelsea, Caicedo has silenced critics with his dominant displays. His energy and reading of the game have made him one of the most effective defensive midfielders in Europe.
1. Pedri – Barcelona & Spain
Pedri combines the elegance of a traditional playmaker with the work rate of a modern midfielder. A pivotal figure for both Barcelona and Spain, he’s already delivering on the massive expectations placed on his shoulders.
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