The 20 Best Midfielders in the Premier League Right Now (2025)

September 26, 2025 Kris Isaksen

The Premier League continues to boast the deepest pool of midfield talent in world football. From rising stars to elite operators, these players have shaped the 2024/25 season with their class, control, and consistency. Ranked from 20 to 1, here's our definitive rundown of the best midfielders in the English top flight right now.

20. Youri Tielemans – Aston Villa

Tielemans played a vital role in Aston Villa's Champions League run last season, anchoring midfield with intelligence and drive. His ability to combine grit with technique makes him central to Unai Emery’s plans, even as the current campaign starts slowly.

19. Morgan Gibbs-White – Nottingham Forest

Closely watched by top-six clubs, Gibbs-White has grown into a creative force for Forest. Now a regular in England’s squad under Tuchel, his eye for a pass and technical finesse make him one to watch ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

18. Morgan Rogers – Aston Villa

Rogers has emerged as one of the Premier League’s brightest young midfielders, bringing power and flair to Villa’s attack. A product of Manchester City’s academy, he’s become one of Emery’s most trusted players despite a mixed team season.

17. Adam Wharton – Crystal Palace

Wharton’s rise at Palace has been rapid and impressive, with top clubs already circling. Calm on the ball and sharp in positioning, the 21-year-old is proving he could soon be worth nine figures if he continues this trajectory.

16. Elliot Anderson – Nottingham Forest

Let go by Newcastle to solve financial issues, Anderson has flourished at Forest, even earning his England debut. Composed beyond his years, he’s turning heads with his passing range and fearless forward runs.

15. Martin Zubimendi – Arsenal

Zubimendi’s arrival at Arsenal was a coup for Arteta, especially with Madrid and Liverpool circling. A master of control and transition, he’s settling quickly and looks primed to be a long-term midfield pillar for the Gunners.

14. Sandro Tonali – Newcastle United

After returning from a betting ban, Tonali hit top form in Newcastle’s resurgence. His commanding displays and positional awareness have made him a key figure in Howe’s midfield pivot, helping guide the club back to Europe.

13. Xavi Simons – Tottenham Hotspur

Simons is still adapting to the Premier League, but his creative quality is already evident. Known for unlocking defences with precision passes, he’s got all the tools to thrive at Spurs once he finds his rhythm.

12. Tijjani Reijnders – Manchester City

Reijnders has slotted into Guardiola’s system with ease, showing his knack for late runs and clever distribution. His quick adaptation has made him one of City’s most exciting additions in recent years.

11. Martin Ødegaard – Arsenal

Though his numbers have dipped slightly, Ødegaard remains Arsenal’s creative heartbeat. The club captain continues to orchestrate play with vision and calm, and the £30m fee now looks like a steal.

10. Florian Wirtz – Liverpool

Wirtz is still finding his feet at Liverpool, but his Bundesliga pedigree suggests big things ahead. Despite a slow start, his track record of goals and assists points to an eventual breakout in the Premier League.

9. Eberechi Eze – Arsenal

A standout in the 2024/25 season, Eze capped his rise with a decisive FA Cup final goal. Now at Arsenal, his flair and versatility could be the spark that takes Arteta’s side to the next level.

8. Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United

Fernandes has been United’s creative engine since his arrival, consistently delivering goals and assists. Prone to volatility at times, his influence remains crucial to a side that often relies on his spark.

7. Dominik Szoboszlai – Liverpool

After early struggles, Szoboszlai came alive in key moments of Liverpool’s title charge. His energy, goal threat, and versatility have made him a perfect fit in Arne Slot’s evolving setup.

6. Bruno Guimarães – Newcastle United

Bruno Guimaraes — Photo: ph.FAB / Shutterstock.com

Guimarães has been at the core of Newcastle’s resurgence, combining defensive steel with progressive play. His arrival marked a turning point for the club, and he continues to justify every penny spent.

5. Alexis Mac Allister – Liverpool

Mac Allister has adapted to a deeper role with composure and class, emerging as a key figure in Liverpool’s midfield. His World Cup-winning pedigree has shone through in another title-winning season.

4. Moisés Caicedo – Chelsea

Moises Caicedo — Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com

After a tough debut season, Caicedo is now thriving under Maresca, adding bite and balance to Chelsea’s midfield. His resurgence included a standout display against United and a key role in Chelsea’s recent silverware.

3. Ryan Gravenberch – Liverpool

Once overlooked, Gravenberch has become a vital cog in Liverpool’s midfield machine under Slot. His blend of athleticism and composure evokes his Ajax prime — and he’s only just getting started.

2. Declan Rice – Arsenal

Rice has brought steel, leadership, and technical quality to Arsenal’s title pursuit. Still only 26, he’s matured into one of the world’s most complete midfielders and is essential to Arteta’s tactical system.

1. Rodri – Manchester City

Rodri stands alone as the Premier League’s most complete midfielder, dictating games with elegance and intelligence. A Ballon d'Or winner and Champions League hero, his absence is always felt — and his presence defines dominance.