The 25 best midfielders in the world in 2025 – Ranked

Midfielders remain the heartbeat of every great football team. Whether they dictate tempo, break lines, or create magic in the final third, they are often the difference between winning and losing. From seasoned legends to new stars on the rise, here are the top 25 midfielders in the world in 2025—ranked from 25 to 1.

25. Luka Modric – AC Milan

Even at 40 years old, Luka Modric continues to dictate matches with elegance and intelligence. After leaving Real Madrid, the Croatian maestro has been a key figure in Milan’s resurgence, proving age is just a number. His vision and calm presence keep him among football’s elite midfielders.

24. Sandro Tonali – Newcastle

Sandro Tonali is the metronome of Newcastle’s midfield. His passing range, defensive awareness, and leadership make him indispensable for Eddie Howe’s side. Tonali’s ability to control the tempo and contribute in both directions has elevated Newcastle to new heights.

23. Frenkie de Jong – Barcelona

Frenkie de Jong brings experience and control to Barcelona’s youthful midfield. Known for his press resistance and intelligent positioning, he remains a trusted figure in the Catalan engine room. His influence continues to shape Barca’s identity under Hansi Flick.

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22. Nicolo Barella – Inter Milan

Nicolo Barella combines energy and creativity in equal measure. A box-to-box force for both club and country, he’s adapted to a deeper playmaking role this season with ease. His performances remain pivotal to Inter’s domestic and European ambitions.

21. Enzo Fernández – Chelsea

Enzo Fernández has stepped up as a leader in Chelsea’s midfield. His technique, passing precision, and reading of the game make him a key figure in the Blues’ rebuild. He has the quality and mentality to thrive at the highest level.

20. Joshua Kimmich – Bayern Munich

Joshua Kimmich continues to show why versatility is a superpower. Whether as a right-back or midfielder, his tactical intelligence and leadership are unquestionable. His consistency keeps him among Europe’s most trusted midfield generals.

19. Kevin De Bruyne – Napoli

Kevin De Bruyne may be past his peak years, but his brilliance hasn’t faded. Now at Napoli, the Belgian still dictates games with surgical precision and creativity. Few players in the world can match his vision when fully fit.

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18. Martin Ødegaard – Arsenal

Martin Ødegaard has matured into Arsenal’s creative heartbeat. His intelligence on the ball and leadership as captain make him one of the most influential players in the Premier League. When he’s missing, the Gunners feel it.

17. Bruno Fernandes – Manchester United

Bruno Fernandes is a numbers machine and a leader. His goals, assists, and relentless desire to create make him a nightmare for defenders. Few midfielders can match his output and willingness to take risks.

16. Dominik Szoboszlai – Liverpool

Dominik Szoboszlai has added more end product to his game while maintaining his work rate. His adaptability to different roles has made him invaluable to Liverpool’s system. His technical quality and energy make him a complete modern midfielder.

15. Florian Wirtz – Liverpool

Florian Wirtz is still adjusting to life at Liverpool, but his talent is undeniable. With exceptional vision and close control, he has all the tools to become one of the best. It’s only a matter of time before he fully explodes in the Premier League.

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14. Scott McTominay – Napoli

Scott McTominay has enjoyed a career renaissance in Italy. His goals, energy, and physical presence have made him a star in Serie A. Once doubted, he’s now a key figure in Napoli’s midfield.

13. Bruno Guimaraes – Newcastle

Bruno Guimaraes has been Newcastle’s heartbeat since his arrival. His passion, drive, and technical ability lift the team in big moments. He remains one of the most complete midfielders in the league.

12. Alexis Mac Allister – Liverpool

Alexis Mac Allister continues to thrive under Arne Slot. His intelligence, creativity, and composure make him a perfect fit for Liverpool’s style. His evolution since joining from Brighton has been remarkable.

11. Fabian Ruiz – Paris Saint-Germain

Fabian Ruiz brings balance and control to PSG’s star-studded midfield. His calm presence and ability to keep the team ticking make him indispensable. He’s a player who makes others shine around him.

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10. Federico Valverde – Real Madrid

Federico Valverde is one of the most dynamic midfielders in world football. His energy, versatility, and leadership qualities have made him a pillar at Real Madrid. He impacts games on both ends of the pitch.

9. Joao Neves – Paris Saint-Germain

Joao Neves quietly controls matches with supreme intelligence. He may not grab the headlines, but his press resistance and positioning are world-class. He’s the perfect modern deep-lying midfielder.

8. Rodri – Manchester City

Rodri is the foundation of Manchester City’s dominance. His tactical awareness, composure, and ability to score crucial goals make him indispensable. When he plays, City control everything.

7. Martin Zubimendi – Arsenal

Martin Zubimendi has quickly become Arsenal’s anchor. His defensive solidity and ability to break lines give Arteta’s team the balance they’ve long needed. Calm under pressure, he’s quietly shaping Arsenal’s midfield into a title-challenging force.

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6. Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid

Jude Bellingham continues to deliver for club and country. His maturity, leadership, and goalscoring instinct make him one of the most complete young players in the world. He’s destined to define a generation of midfielders.

5. Ryan Gravenberch – Liverpool

Ryan Gravenberch has thrived under Arne Slot. His elegance, power, and composure in midfield recall the greats of the past. He’s turned into one of Liverpool’s most important players.

4. Vitinha – Paris Saint-Germain

Vitinha has become the brain of PSG’s midfield. His intelligence in tight spaces allows the team to function smoothly. His rise from an afterthought to a world-class playmaker is nothing short of remarkable.

3. Declan Rice – Arsenal

Declan Rice has become the engine of Arsenal’s midfield. His leadership, defensive strength, and ability to progress play have made him world-class. He’s the kind of player who can define an era at the Emirates.

2. Moises Caicedo – Chelsea

Moises Caicedo has grown into his role as Chelsea’s midfield destroyer. After a tough start, he now dominates games with energy, tackling, and smart distribution. He’s a powerhouse who can take over matches.

1. Pedri – Barcelona

Pedri is the gold standard of modern midfield play. His silky touch, vision, and intelligence set him apart from his peers. Barcelona’s present and future are built around his magic in the center of the park.