Top 25 Central Midfielders in World Soccer—Ranked

Understanding the Role of a Central Midfielder

Defining a "central midfielder" in modern football is no simple task. With positions becoming more fluid and tactical roles constantly evolving, midfielders today are expected to perform a wide range of duties—defend, build play, break lines, press, and even score. However, despite this complexity, there remains a distinction between different types of midfielders.

This list focuses exclusively on true central midfielders—those who typically operate in the No. 8 role or as balanced, box-to-box players. These players act as the link between defense and attack, carry the ball through midfield, and often dictate the rhythm of a match from the center of the park. To maintain clarity, traditional defensive midfielders (the out-and-out No. 6s) and classic attacking midfielders (the No. 10s) have been excluded, as they deserve separate recognition.

What remains is a group of versatile, influential midfielders who embody the demands of the modern game. While ranking them is challenging, here is a carefully considered list of the current 25 best central midfielders.

Top 25 Central Midfielders

25. Conor Gallagher

Conor Gallagher first made an impression during a stellar loan spell at Crystal Palace, showing promise as a future midfield engine at Chelsea. After being left out due to transfer market activity, he found a new home at Atlético Madrid under Diego Simeone, who saw him as the perfect fit for his intense system. Known for his relentless engine, fearless tackling, and drive, Gallagher has earned the nickname "El Pitbull" for his aggressive style of play.

24. Adrien Rabiot

Adrien Rabiot, who won five Ligue 1 titles with Paris Saint-Germain in the 2010s, is now hitting his prime at Marseille. His evolution from a graceful, dependable midfielder into a genuine match-winner has been remarkable. With added bite, goals, and a cutting edge, Rabiot has proven that he can thrive beyond just being a composed presence in midfield.

23. Exequiel Palacios

Exequiel Palacios has played for just two teams: River Plate and Bayer Leverkusen. At Leverkusen, he evolved into a tireless, intelligent, and influential presence in midfield. He was a key player in their historic 2023/24 campaign, anchoring the midfield as they went unbeaten in domestic competition and won both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal. His consistency in a talented Argentina squad speaks volumes about his value and reliability.

22. Khephren Thuram

Khephren Thuram comes from a footballing family, with his father Lilian Thuram and brother Marcus both playing professionally. In his debut season at Juventus, he stood out as a rare bright spark in what was otherwise a forgettable campaign. His dynamic displays, blending physicality, press resistance, and line-breaking runs, quickly turned heads, drawing comparisons to Paul Pogba.

21. Frank Anguissa

Frank Anguissa has become a force of nature at Napoli, where he has been the beating heart of one of the most glorious chapters in the club's history. Commanding the midfield with a lethal mix of defensive savvy and explosive ball-carrying power, he has evolved into a true game-changer. His influence is undeniable, with 11 goal contributions in the 2024–25 season alone.

20. Piotr Zielinski

Piotr Zielinski may not be in the headlines often, but those who know the game recognize his brilliance. Peers like Matty Cash and Bruno Fernandes have praised his technical abilities, while Carlo Ancelotti called him "complete." His ability to control tempo, unlock defenses, and deliver precise passes makes him a vital player for his team.

19. Leon Goretzka

Leon Goretzka has evolved from a lean and lanky player into one of the world’s most fearsome midfield forces. While he may not dazzle with silky skills, his effectiveness, timing, and unyielding drive make him a formidable presence on the pitch. His ability to cover ground and contribute in both defense and attack sets him apart.

18. Luka Modric

Luka Modrić remains one of the best midfielders in the world, with his vision, technique, and intelligence still sharp. Even as he ages, he continues to outthink, outpass, and outplay most midfielders. His control of tempo and eye for a killer ball remain unmatched, making him a valuable asset for AC Milan.

17. Mateo Kovacic

Mateo Kovačić has a résumé that includes Inter, Real Madrid, and Manchester City, showcasing his elite pedigree. As one of the game’s most gifted ball-progressing midfielders, he is capable of slicing through defensive lines with pinpoint vertical passes. Despite not being an automatic starter at City, he rises to the occasion when needed, often contributing crucial goals.

16. Warren Zaïre-Emery

Warren Zaïre-Emery has become one of Luis Enrique’s most trusted players at Paris Saint-Germain. His relentless work rate, smart positioning, and ability to recover the ball allow those around him to thrive. His maturity and leadership make him a natural fit for PSG’s star-studded midfield.

15. Ederson

Ederson’s meteoric rise from Salernitana to being one of Europe’s most complete midfielders has been impressive. As a Brazil international and key player for Atalanta, he has transformed from a struggling player to a vital part of a resurgent team. His tireless engine and ability to transition from defense to attack make him a standout performer.

14. Dominik Szoboszlai

Dominik Szoboszlai is more than just a showreel specialist. His grace on the ball and tenacity off it make him a constant creative threat. In his second season at Liverpool, he enjoyed a breakout campaign, scoring eight goals and providing nine assists. His performance in Liverpool’s title-clinching victory over Tottenham confirmed his status as a genuine star.

13. Tijjani Reijnders

Tijjani Reijnders’ rise after moving to AC Milan in 2023 has been rapid and impressive. His versatility, composure, and timing make him a valuable asset. His 15-goal return in a disappointing 2024–25 campaign for Milan earned him a move to Manchester City, where he continues to shine.

12. Scott McTominay

Scott McTominay transformed under Antonio Conte at Napoli, evolving from a rugged, box-to-box battler into a complete midfielder. His tireless pressing, razor-sharp positioning, and thunderous drives into enemy territory made him a key player for the team. He became the pulse of the squad and cemented his place among modern Napoli greats.

11. Gavi

Gavi’s rise was temporarily paused by a serious knee injury in late 2023, but he is still on course to become one of the defining midfielders of his generation. His intensity, technical finesse, and fearless tackling set him apart. In a midfield packed with talent, he has already made himself indispensable.

10. Frenkie de Jong

Frenkie de Jong remains one of the most outrageously gifted midfielders in the game. His silky touch, ability to weave through midfield traffic, and athletic gifts make him a joy to watch. Despite injuries and inconsistency, his natural talent is undeniable.

9. Bruno Guimaraes

Bruno Guimaraes is the heartbeat of Newcastle United’s midfield, combining grit and guile in equal measure. His ability to break up play and flip the script with crisp, forward-thinking passes makes him a difference-maker. Without him, the Magpies’ rise wouldn’t have soared nearly as high.

8. Fabian Ruiz

Fabian Ruiz often flew under the radar during his time at Napoli and initially faced the same fate after his move to Paris Saint-Germain. However, his performances at Euro 2024 and the 2024–25 season with PSG proved his value. He is now firmly in the spotlight and thriving in it.

7. Enzo Fernandez

Enzo Fernandez, a World Cup winner and superstar at Benfica, struggled initially at Chelsea. However, adjusting his position slightly allowed him to thrive, leading to nine goals and 17 assists in the 2024–25 season. His impact helped Chelsea lift both the Europa Conference League and the Club World Cup.

6. Nicolo Barella

Nicolo Barella is the heartbeat of Inter's midfield, combining bite, intelligence, and composure. His tenacity, precision, and knack for arriving in the box at the right time make him a mainstay for both club and country. He embodies the modern Italian midfielder.

5. Federico Valverde

Federico Valverde, the 2016 bargain signing from Peñarol, has become the heartbeat of Real Madrid. His versatility, selflessness, and relentless energy make him a vital player. He covers every blade of grass, breaks up play with ruthless precision, and chips in with vital goals.

4. Declan Rice

Declan Rice is everything a modern-day midfielder should be. Relentless in pursuit of the ball, razor-sharp in anticipation, and elite in the tackle, he has a sixth sense for danger. His role at Arsenal has been crucial, giving the backline freedom while imposing himself all over the pitch.

3. Alexis Mac Allister

Alexis Mac Allister quietly made his mark at Brighton before gaining worldwide attention during the World Cup. His near-telepathic partnership with Lionel Messi showcased his quality. A quintessential modern box-to-box midfielder, he excels in every aspect of the game.

2. Vitinha

Vitinha is considered one of the best midfielders in the world by Luka Modrić. His smooth, silky playmaking, ability to dictate tempo, and knack for finding space make him a real danger around the opposition box. He pulls the strings at the heart of PSG’s midfield.

1. Pedri

Pedri is often compared to Andrés Iniesta, and for good reason. His genius with and without the ball, combined with his artistry, intelligence, and elegance, makes him the archetypal Barça and Spain midfielder. Fully fit and thriving under Hansi Flick, he is currently the best in the business.