Ranking the Top 25 Central Midfielders in World Soccer

The role of a central midfielder is one of the most challenging on the pitch. These players must defend, create plays, press opponents, and often score. This list highlights those who typically play as balanced No. 8s or box-to-box midfielders — the ones who link defense and attack, carry the ball forward, and control the pace from the center.

We’ve left out purely defensive No. 6s and advanced creative No. 10s to focus on true central midfielders. Here is Sports Illustrated’s carefully chosen ranking of the best 25 players in this role currently.

25. Curtis Jones

Originally a winger, Curtis Jones found his true calling in midfield under Arne Slot at Liverpool. Known for his two-footed skill and tenacity in tackles, he rarely loses possession once he has the ball. He has also become more of a scoring threat, contributing key goals during Liverpool’s 2024–25 title-winning season. His versatility allows him to perform as a fullback, defensive mid, and attacking mid, but his best work comes as an energetic No. 8.

24. Pablo Barrios

Under Diego Simeone, Pablo Barrios has impressed with his energy and ability to maintain pressure in Atlético Madrid’s midfield. The Spanish player isn’t flashy but brings direction and security to the team's core, steadily growing each year.

23. Hugo Larsson

Hugo Larsson emerged quickly at Eintracht Frankfurt, attracting interest from Europe’s top clubs. The Swedish midfielder combines elegance, agility, and surprising speed despite his height. He controls tempo expertly and can switch defense into attack in moments.

22. Mateo Kovačić

Mateo Kovačić boasts a stellar career at clubs like Inter, Real Madrid, Chelsea, and Manchester City. Known for his precise vertical passes that slice through defenses, Kovačić is a rare talent in modern football. Although injuries have limited his time recently, when fit, he contributes crucial goals and remains a masterful technician.

21. Leon Goretzka

Leon Goretzka transformed from a lean player into a powerful Bayern Munich presence. While not flashy, his effectiveness shines through impeccable timing when attacking and relentless off-the-ball work. His blend of strength, intelligence, and stamina dismantles opponents regularly.

20. Khéphren Thuram

Son of Lilian Thuram, Khéphren Thuram made waves during his debut season at Juventus. Towering and technically skilled, he offers physicality and consistency over flair. His maturity and defensive reliability earned him Serie A Team of the Season honors and drew comparisons to Paul Pogba.

19. Warren Zaïre-Emery

Warren Zaïre-Emery is a young leader at Paris Saint-Germain, holding the midfield together with his tireless work rate, sharp distribution, and ball recovery skills. Despite PSG’s star-studded lineup, Zaïre-Emery’s influence stands out as he matures into one of France’s promising talents.

18. Youri Tielemans

Signed on a free transfer by Aston Villa, Youri Tielemans has become indispensable, blending passing ability, shooting, and tenacity. His performances earned him Supporters’ and Players’ Player of the Season awards in 2024–25. Comparisons to Kevin De Bruyne reflect his importance to Villa’s Premier League title push.

17. Tijjani Reijnders

Tijjani Reijnders burst onto the scene after joining AC Milan, showing versatility in midfield roles. Two-footed and composed, his late runs into the box recall Frank Lampard. Scoring 15 goals in 2024–25 led to a move to Manchester City where he scored and assisted on debut.

16. Adrien Rabiot

Adrien Rabiot hit his stride late in his career after moving to Serie A with AC Milan. Once known for grace and dependability, he evolved into a match-winner adding goals and aggression. Between 2022–23 and 2024–25, he scored 30 goals, showcasing a remarkable career revival.

15. Gavi

Gavi suffered a serious knee injury in 2023 but has shown signs of becoming a defining midfielder for Barcelona and Spain. His intense running, fearless tackling, and technical finesse recall Andrés Iniesta. When fit, he elevates Barcelona’s play significantly.

14. Elliot Anderson

Elliot Anderson rose fast from Nottingham Forest to becoming a key starter under Thomas Tuchel. Newcastle fans witnessed his talent early, and despite interest from Manchester United, Forest hold firm on their prized midfielder.

13. Ederson

Once struggling at Salernitana, Ederson has grown into a complete midfielder with Atalanta. A tireless presser and intelligent passer, he drives transition and supports attacking teammates effectively.

12. André-Frank Zambo Anguissa

André-Frank Zambo Anguissa struggled to adapt in the Premier League but flourished in Napoli. A two-time Serie A champion, his mix of defensive skill and dynamic ball carrying changed games. In 2024–25, he had 11 goal contributions, proving his value on both ends.

11. Luka Modrić

Luka Modrić may have moved to AC Milan in 2025, but his vision, technique, and intelligence remain elite. Though his physical stamina has declined, his ability to dictate tempo and deliver killer passes endures.

10. Nicolò Barella

Nicolò Barella is Inter Milan’s heartbeat, balancing grit with creativity. Small in stature but fierce in challenge, he presses hard and arrives in the box at key moments, epitomizing the modern Italian midfielder.

9. Scott McTominay

Scott McTominay wasn’t considered a star at Manchester United but thrived under Antonio Conte at Napoli. His work ethic and tactical discipline blossomed, making him a complete midfielder and vital part of the team’s success.

8. Fabián Ruíz

Fabián Ruíz shone at Euro 2024 and played a pivotal role in PSG’s historic quadruple in 2024–25. His box-to-box style includes excellent passing and smart movement, moving from underrated to a central figure in top-level football.

7. Federico Valverde

Despite Real Madrid’s star-studded roster, Federico Valverde remains the team’s engine. Versatile and tireless, he covers huge ground, breaks up attacks, initiates offense, and scores crucial goals. His selflessness and stamina fuel Madrid’s success.

6. Bruno Guimarães

Bruno Guimarães quietly powers Newcastle United's rise with his balance of tenacity and creativity. His ability to break up play and quickly launch attacks keeps the Magpies competitive at the highest levels.

5. Enzo Fernández

After a rocky start at Chelsea, Enzo Fernández found his best position slightly higher on the pitch. Combining creativity with aggressive ball-winning, he recorded nine goals and 17 assists in 2024–25, helping Chelsea win the Europa Conference League and Club World Cup.

4. Alexis Mac Allister

Alexis Mac Allister rose from Brighton’s ranks to shine alongside Messi during Argentina’s World Cup triumph. A complete box-to-box midfielder, he blends tenacious defense with precise passing and consistent performance, now a Premier League champion with Liverpool.

3. Declan Rice

Declan Rice embodies the modern midfielder: relentless in defense, smart in anticipation, and evolving into an attacking threat with spectacular goals. He anchors Arsenal’s strong defense while contributing offensively with timing and precision.

2. João Neves

João Neves pairs with Vitinha at PSG, playing a deep role but influencing all areas. Exceptional under pressure and aggressive in pressing, he helped PSG claim their first Champions League title, securing his place in club history.

1. Pedri

The closest comparison to Andrés Iniesta, Pedri mesmerizes with his movement, close control, and passing. Despite injury setbacks, he remains the embodiment of Barcelona’s style and a defining figure for Spain.