{"id":11775,"date":"2025-07-21T01:20:09","date_gmt":"2025-07-21T01:20:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/11775\/"},"modified":"2025-07-21T01:20:09","modified_gmt":"2025-07-21T01:20:09","slug":"the-25-best-central-midfielders-in-world-soccer-ranked","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/11775\/","title":{"rendered":"The 25 Best Central Midfielders in World Soccer\u2014Ranked"},"content":{"rendered":"

Trying to define a “central midfielder” in modern football<\/a> is no simple task.<\/p>\n

With positions more fluid than ever and tactical roles constantly evolving, midfielders today are asked to do a bit of everything \u2013 defend, build play, break lines, press and even score. But amid all this complexity, there\u2019s still a distinction between the different types of midfielders.<\/p>\n

This list focuses exclusively on true central midfielders \u2013 those who typically operate in the No. 8 role or as balanced, box-to-box players. These are the players who connect defence and attack, carry the ball through midfield, and often dictate the rhythm of a match from the centre of the park.<\/p>\n

To keep things clear, we’ve excluded traditional defensive midfielders (the out-and-out No. 6s), as well as classic attacking midfielders (the No. 10s) who play higher up the pitch in more advanced creative roles. Both of those categories deserve separate recognition.<\/p>\n

What remains is a group of versatile, influential midfielders who embody the modern game’s demands. And while ranking them is no easy feat, here\u2019s Sports Illustrated’s carefully considered list of the current 25 best.<\/p>\n

\"Conor<\/p>\n

Conor Gallagher joined Atl\u00e9tico Madrid in 2024. \/ IMAGO\/NurPhoto<\/p>\n

Conor Gallagher first turned heads during a stellar loan spell at Crystal Palace, looking every bit the future midfield engine at Chelsea.<\/p>\n

But with the Blues indulging in another whirlwind of transfer-market excess, Gallagher was left on the outside looking in. Enter Atl\u00e9tico Madrid<\/a>\u2014and Diego Simeone, who saw the perfect soldier for his intense, no-nonsense system.<\/p>\n

With his relentless engine, fearless tackling, and unshakable drive, Gallagher has already endeared himself to fans in the Spanish capital\u2014 earning, despite his puppy-dog eyes, the fierce nickname “El Pitbull” for the way he snarls his way through La Liga midfields.<\/p>\n

\"Adrien<\/p>\n

Adrien Rabiot is enjoying the best spell of his career. \/ Danielle Parhizkaran-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

For a player who won five Ligue 1 titles with an all-conquering Paris Saint-Germain<\/a> side in the 2010s, it might seem strange to say that Adrien Rabiot is only now hitting his prime\u2014especially now he’s in his thirties and playing for Marseille.<\/p>\n

But that\u2019s exactly what\u2019s happened.<\/p>\n

First at Juventus, and now at the Stade V\u00e9lodrome, Rabiot has evolved from a graceful, dependable midfielder into a genuine match-winner. He\u2019s added bite, goals, and a cutting edge to his game\u2014becoming far more than just a composed presence in the middle of the park.<\/p>\n

Between 2022\u201323 and 2024\u201325, the France international netted 30 goals for club and country \u2013 just four fewer than he managed in the entire rest of his career, which began way back in 2011. It\u2019s a remarkable transformation and proof that Rabiot has rewritten the final chapters of his career on his own terms\u2014not fading away, but stepping up.<\/p>\n

\"Exequiel<\/p>\n

Exequiel Palacios is a regular for Argentina. \/ Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Exequiel Palacios has kept things simple in his club career, representing just two teams: River Plate and Bayer Leverkusen. At River, he emerged as a rising star with enormous potential. But it\u2019s in Germany where he\u2019s truly come into his own.<\/p>\n

At Leverkusen, Palacios evolved into a tireless, intelligent and influential presence in midfield. He was a cornerstone of their historic 2023\/24 campaign\u2014anchoring the midfield as they went unbeaten in domestic competition and clinched both the Bundesliga and DFB-Pokal. Whether breaking up attacks, recycling possession, or arriving late in the box to contribute a goal or assist, Palacios did it all with quiet authority.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, in an Argentina midfield brimming with talent \u2013 from Enzo Fern\u00e1ndez to Rodrigo De Paul and rising prodigy Franco Mastantuono \u2013 Palacios continues to hold his place. That consistency, in a squad so rich with options, speaks volumes about his value and reliability.<\/p>\n

\"Kh\u00e9phren<\/p>\n

Kh\u00e9phren Thuram is the son of Lilian Thuram. \/ IMAGO\/NurPhoto<\/p>\n

Kh\u00e9phren Thuram comes from footballing royalty \u2013 the son of French legend Lilian Thuram and younger brother of Inter forward Marcus Thuram. And now, with his own star on the rise, the youngest Thuram is doing the family name proud.<\/p>\n

The towering midfielder was a rare bright spark in an otherwise forgettable 2024\u201325 season for Juventus<\/a>\u2014arguably the standout performer in what was his debut campaign in Turin. His dynamic, all-action displays quickly turned heads, with his blend of physicality, press resistance, and line-breaking runs providing Juve with much-needed energy and drive through midfield.<\/p>\n

So impactful was his debut campaign, he drew comparisons to Paul Pogba\u2014 one of Juve\u2019s most iconic midfielders of the modern era. But while Thuram might not boast Pogba\u2019s flair, he offers something arguably more valuable right now: consistency, maturity, and defensive steel.<\/p>\n

A Serie A Team of the Season nod confirmed what many already suspected \u2013 Thuram is the real deal. At 6’4″, with technical class and players bouncing off him like pinballs, he\u2019s as fun to watch as he is hard to stop.<\/p>\n

\"Andre-Frank<\/p>\n

Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa is a midfield dynamo. \/ Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Fulham fans will remember Andr\u00e9-Frank Zambo Anguissa \u2013 or simply Frank Anguissa \u2013 as the midfield mountain who flashed glimpses of brilliance but, strangely given his size and strength, struggled to fully adapt to the Premier League.<\/p>\n

In Naples, though, Anguissa has become a force of nature. <\/p>\n

A two-time Serie A champion, Anguissa has been the beating heart of one of the most glorious chapters in Napoli\u2019s history. Commanding the midfield with a lethal mix of defensive savvy and explosive ball-carrying power, he\u2019s evolved into a true game-changer.<\/p>\n

Whether it\u2019s crunching tackles, weaving mazy runs, intelligent interceptions or threading razor-sharp passes, Anguissa\u2019s influence is undeniable. During 2024\u201325 alone, he racked up 11 goal contributions \u2013 six goals and five assists \u2013 proving he\u2019s as deadly going forward as he is tough in defence.<\/p>\n

\"Piotr<\/p>\n

Piotr Zielinski is adored by his footballing peers. \/ IMAGO\/Goal Sports Images<\/p>\n

You won\u2019t often see Piotr Zieli\u0144ski\u2019s name lighting up headlines\u2014but listen to those who really know the game, and his name rings out with quiet reverence.<\/p>\n

Ask his peers and his brilliance becomes obvious. Matty Cash once named him the best player he\u2019s ever played alongside. Bruno Fernandes, who shared a midfield with Zieli\u0144ski at Udinese, has openly said he\u2019d love to reunite at Manchester United \u2013 even admitting Zieli\u0144ski is more technically gifted than he is.<\/p>\n

Carlo Ancelotti called him \u201ccomplete.\u201d Former Poland boss Paulo Sousa described him as \u201ca beautiful player\u201d with a \u201camazing sense of timing and pitch geometry.\u201d And Polish legend Zbigniew Boniek? He once claimed Zieli\u0144ski is better than Kevin De Bruyne.<\/a><\/p>\n

Need we say more? With praise like that, probably not.<\/p>\n

\"Leon<\/p>\n

Leon Goretzka has been with Bayern Munich since 2018. \/ Hannah Mckay-Reuters via Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Leon Goretzka\u2019s journey from lean and lanky to relentless powerhouse has seen him evolve into one of the world\u2019s most fearsome midfield forces.<\/p>\n

He might not dazzle with silky skills, but what he lacks in finesse, the Bayern Munich<\/a> star more than makes up for with sheer effectiveness. His timing when bursting into the box is impeccable and off the ball, he covers ground like a machine that never quits.<\/p>\n

While he may have lost a bit of the raw power that once defined him, when Goretzka is on form, there\u2019s no denying his class\u2014a dynamic blend of strength, intelligence, and unyielding drive that can dismantle any opposition.<\/p>\n

\"Luka<\/p>\n

Luka Modri\u0107 left Real Madrid for AC Milan in 2025. \/ IMAGO\/NurPhoto<\/p>\n

Ability-wise, Luka Modri\u0107 is still right up there with the best\u2014his vision, technique, and intelligence remain as sharp as ever. But even the greats can\u2019t outrun time.<\/p>\n

Though he may not have the engine he once did, make no mistake\u2014Modri\u0107 can still outthink, outpass and outplay most midfielders in the game. His control of tempo, exquisite range of passing and eye for a killer ball remain untouched. He can unlock a defence in an instant and still strike fear with a fierce shot from distance.<\/p>\n

Even in the twilight of his career, Modri\u0107 isn’t fading, he’s simply adapting. That skillset will undoubtedly come to the fore at AC Milan.<\/p>\n

\"Mateo<\/p>\n

Mateo Kova\u010di\u0107 has played for some of world football’s biggest clubs. \/ IMAGO\/Pro Sports Images<\/p>\n

Mateo Kova\u010di\u0107\u2019s r\u00e9sum\u00e9 speaks for itself\u2014Inter, Real Madrid, Chelsea, Manchester City<\/a>\u2014a glittering list that stands as a testament to his elite pedigree.<\/p>\n

The Croatian maestro is one of the game\u2019s most gifted ball-progressing midfielders, capable of slicing through defensive lines with pinpoint vertical passes\u2014the kind that have become a rare commodity in an age dominated by safe, sideways football.<\/p>\n

While no longer an automatic starter at City, Kova\u010di\u0107 rises to the occasion whenever he’s called upon, often chipping in with crucial goals, too. He\u2019s not just there to make up the numbers; he\u2019s a seasoned technician who still has the power to tip the balance when it matters most.<\/p>\n

\"Warren<\/p>\n

Warren Za\u00efre-Emery won the quadruple with PSG last season. \/ IMAGO\/Laurent Sanson<\/p>\n

Warren Za\u00efre-Emery has already become one of Luis Enrique\u2019s most trusted players at Paris Saint-Germain\u2014and for good reason.<\/p>\n

He may not be the flashiest player in PSG\u2019s star-studded midfield, but his influence is undeniable. His relentless work rate, smart positioning, sharp distribution, and ability to recover the ball allow those around him to thrive. <\/p>\n

And that\u2019s saying something \u2013 because the talent around him is serious. From Jo\u00e3o Neves and Vitinha to the ever-reliable Fabi\u00e1n Ruiz, the creative Lee Kang-In, and even D\u00e9sir\u00e9 Dou\u00e9 when he drops deeper, PSG\u2019s midfield is stacked with players who can control and change games.<\/p>\n

But it\u2019s Za\u00efre-Emery who holds it all together when he’s playng\u2014mature beyond his years, already a natural leader and the kind of midfielder France always seems to produce.<\/p>\n

\"Ederson<\/p>\n

Ederson is a star in Serie A. \/ IMAGO\/Marco Canoniero<\/p>\n

Just a few years ago, Ederson (the Brazilian midfielder, not the goalkeeper) was struggling for minutes with relegation-threatened Salernitana. Now, he\u2019s one of the most complete midfielders in Europe\u2014a Brazil international, a European champion and the beating heart of a resurgent Atalanta.<\/p>\n

His meteoric rise has mirrored that of his club. As Atalanta transformed from Serie A staples into genuine title contenders and Europa League winners, Ederson was at the centre of it all. A tireless engine who covers ground like few others, he presses aggressively, wins duels, and gives his more attack-minded teammates the freedom to shine.<\/p>\n

But don\u2019t be fooled into thinking he\u2019s just a destroyer. Ederson is excellent on the ball, too\u2014a smooth, purposeful carrier and a tidy passer. While not a traditional playmaker, he thrives in transition, keeping things moving with precision and intent.<\/p>\n

\"Dominik<\/p>\n

Dominik Szoboszlai has emerged as a key player for Arne Slot’s Liverpool. \/ IMAGO\/Action Plus<\/p>\n

Dominik Szoboszlai\u2019s ball-striking alone is enough to turn heads \u2013 thunderous free-kicks, pinpoint long-range passes and rockets from outside the box. He could easily make a living as a highlight-reel specialist.<\/p>\n

But the Liverpool <\/a>star is far more than a showreel.<\/p>\n

Graceful on the ball yet tenacious off it, Szoboszlai combines flair with bite in a way few modern playmakers do. His vision, composure and technique make him a constant creative threat, and he\u2019s quietly racked up assists wherever he\u2019s played \u2013 a testament to his consistency and football intelligence.<\/p>\n

In his second season at Anfield, Szoboszlai enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2024\/25, racking up eight goals and nine assists across all competitions. He saved his best for last, pulling the strings in Liverpool\u2019s title-clinching 5\u20131 demolition of Tottenham, where he set up goals for both Mohamed Salah and Luis D\u00edaz.<\/p>\n

It was a fitting climax to a season that saw him become the first Hungarian ever to win the Premier League\u2014and confirmation that Szoboszlai is far more than a flair player. He\u2019s now a genuine star in one of Europe\u2019s most ruthless midfields.<\/p>\n

\"Tijjani<\/p>\n

Tijjani Reijnders is set to play a starring role for Manchester City. \/ Caean Couto-Imagn Images<\/p>\n

Tijjani Reijnders may have blossomed relatively late\u2014only truly breaking onto the big stage after his 2023 move to AC Milan following six steady seasons with AZ Alkmaar\u2014but his rise since then has been rapid, impressive and a joy to watch.<\/p>\n

The Dutchman brings remarkable versatility to the table, equally comfortable at the base of a midfield three or in a double pivot. And in the immortal words of Sade, he\u2019s a smooth operator\u2014two-footed, composed in transition and rarely flustered under pressure.<\/p>\n

But where Reijnders truly shines is in his timing. His surging runs into the box and knack for arriving in the right place at the right moment evoke flashes of a prime Frank Lampard. He found the net 15 times during an otherwise disappointing 2024\u201325 campaign for Milan\u2014a standout return that earned him a big move to Manchester City.<\/p>\n

\"Scott<\/p>\n

Scott McTominay has become a star at Napoli. \/ IMAGO\/Sports Press Photo<\/p>\n

No, Scott McTominay was never the poster boy at Manchester United, and no, he\u2019s not the most naturally gifted technician in the game. But his breakout season at Napoli under Antonio Conte told a different story\u2014one where work ethic, tactical discipline and sheer determination outshine raw flair.<\/p>\n

Conte, a master of reviving overlooked talent, unlocked a new level in McTominay. The Scotsman transformed from a rugged, box-to-box battler into a complete midfielder\u2014still gritty, still fearless in the tackle, but now with added purpose and poise in possession.<\/p>\n

With tireless pressing, razor-sharp positioning and thunderous drives into enemy territory, McTominay didn\u2019t just slot into Napoli\u2019s midfield\u2014he seized control of it. He became the pulse of the team, the hammer in Conte\u2019s blueprint and the man for the moment when it mattered most\u2014cementing his place among modern Napoli greats like Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Dries Mertens and Marek Ham\u0161\u00edk.<\/p>\n

\"Gavi\"<\/p>\n

Gavi’s career is back on track at an injury setback. \/ IMAGO\/NurPhoto<\/p>\n

Gavi\u2019s rise hit an unfortunate pause due to a serious knee injury in late 2023, but even with that setback, it\u2019s already clear: he\u2019s on course to become one of the defining midfielders of his generation\u2014for both Barcelona and Spain.<\/p>\n

The diminutive Spaniard brings an intensity few can match, combining tireless running and fearless tackling with a level of technical finesse that sets him apart. His sharp close control, quick turns in tight spaces, and eye for a pass under pressure recall flashes of the great Andr\u00e9s Iniesta\u2014yet he plays with a snarl and bite all his own. Gavi doesn\u2019t just play the game; he throws himself into it, fully and relentlessly, every single time.<\/p>\n

In a midfield packed with talent like Pedri, Ferm\u00edn L\u00f3pez, and Frenkie de Jong, Gavi has already made himself indispensable. As he continues to recover and mature, careful management will be key\u2014because when he\u2019s on the pitch, Bar\u00e7a don\u2019t just play better; they come alive.<\/p>\n

\"Frenkie<\/p>\n

Frenkie de Jong has been at Barcelona since 2019. \/ IMAGO\/DeFodi Images<\/p>\n

Forever on Manchester United\u2019s wishlist, Frenkie de Jong remains one of the most outrageously gifted midfielders in the game.<\/p>\n

The Dutchman has experienced the full rollercoaster that comes with life at Barcelona<\/a>\u2014flashes of brilliance, stretches of frustration and everything in between. At his best, De Jong is a joy to watch: silky on the ball, impossible to press and capable of weaving his way through midfield traffic with those trademark gliding dribbles.<\/p>\n

He\u2019s proactive in possession, tactically sharp and so athletically gifted that he can cover huge swaths of the pitch in transition\u2014even slotting into centre-back or centre-forward when needed without missing a beat.<\/p>\n

And yet, what\u2019s truly maddening\u2014or perhaps frightening\u2014is that we\u2019ve still never really seen the best of Frenkie de Jong. Injuries, inconsistency and the sheer depth of competition in Bar\u00e7a\u2019s midfield have too often kept him on the fringes, but you can’t dispute his rare, natural talent.<\/p>\n

\"Bruno<\/p>\n

Bruno Guimar\u00e3es is Eddie Howe’s midfield general. \/ IMAGO \/ Sports Press Photo<\/p>\n

Swedish goal machine Alexander Isak has rightly received plenty of plaudits for Newcastle United\u2019s<\/a> resurgence in recent years\u2014a run that\u2019s seen the club return to the Champions League and end a 70-year wait for major domestic silverware.<\/p>\n

But while Isak might steal the spotlight, it\u2019s Bruno Guimar\u00e3es who keeps the engine running. The Brazilian is the heartbeat of Newcastle\u2019s midfield\u2014combining grit and guile in equal measure. He breaks up play with relentless energy, then flips the script in a flash with crisp, forward-thinking passes that set attacks in motion.<\/p>\n

Guimar\u00e3es doesn\u2019t just keep things tidy\u2014he\u2019s a difference-maker. From thunderous strikes to inch-perfect through balls, he\u2019s constantly shifting the rhythm of games in Newcastle\u2019s favour. He might not always be the name in bold, but make no mistake: without Bruno, the Magpies\u2019 rise wouldn\u2019t have soared nearly as high.<\/p>\n

\"Fabi\u00e1n<\/p>\n

Fabi\u00e1n Ru\u00edz is a key player for PSG. \/ IMAGO\/ABACAPRESS<\/p>\n

Fabi\u00e1n Ruiz often flew under the radar during his time at Napoli and initially faced the same fate after his 2022 move to Paris Saint-Germain. But at Euro 2024, the Spaniard finally stepped into the spotlight.<\/p>\n

On Spain\u2019s path to lifting the trophy, Ruiz dazzled as a box-to-box midfielder \u2013 showcasing his superb passing range, intelligent movement and a knack for scoring from the edge of the area.<\/p>\n

He carried that momentum straight into the 2024\u201325 season with PSG, playing a pivotal role in their historic quadruple\u2014a domestic treble and a long-awaited first-ever Champions League title.<\/p>\n

Safe to say, Ruiz is no longer being overlooked. Now, he\u2019s firmly in the spotlight\u2014and thriving in it.<\/p>\n

\"Enzo<\/p>\n

Enzo Fernandez was one of Chelsea’s best players in 2024\/25. \/ Kai Pfaffenbach-Reuters via Imagn Images<\/p>\n

A World Cup winner and a superstar at Benfica, it was hard to understand what exactly was going wrong for Enzo Fern\u00e1ndez after his blockbuster move to Chelsea in 2023. The talent was obvious, the pedigree undeniable, yet somehow it just wasn\u2019t clicking.<\/p>\n

Injuries played a part, of course, and adjusting to the chaos of Chelsea post-rebuild was never going to be easy\u2014especially with a nine-figure price tag hanging over his head. But the key? Pushing him slightly higher up the pitch. Not quite a No. 10, but far enough forward to let his creativity shine while still embracing his aggressive ball-winning instincts in central areas.<\/p>\n

It worked. Brilliantly.<\/p>\n

Fern\u00e1ndez has looked utterly at home picking up line-breaking passes between the lines and driving forward with the ball at his feet\u2014and the numbers back it up. Nine goals and a staggering 17 assists in 2024\u201325, helping Chelsea lift both the Europa Conference League and the Club World Cup.<\/p>\n

It turns out he wasn\u2019t the problem\u2014he just needed the right platform.<\/p>\n

\"Nicolo<\/p>\n

Nico Barella is Inter’s midfield maestro. \/ IMAGO\/ABACAPRESS <\/p>\n

Nicol\u00f2 Barella is the heartbeat of Inter’s midfield \u2013 a perfect balance of bite, intelligence and composure.<\/p>\n

Though not the biggest player on the pitch, he plays with a tenacity and edge that more than make up for it. He presses with intent, tackles with precision and rarely gives the ball away. But Barella isn\u2019t just about industry\u2014his vision and technique allow him to thread passes others wouldn\u2019t attempt and he has a knack for arriving in the box at just the right time.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s little surprise he\u2019s become a mainstay for both club and country. A modern Italian midfielder in the truest sense: disciplined, dynamic and deceptively creative.<\/p>\n

\"Fede<\/p>\n

Fede Valverde is one of Real Madrid’s most important players. \/ IMAGO\/Pressinphoto<\/p>\n

In a team loaded with global superstars and record-breaking transfers\u2014 think Mbapp\u00e9, Bellingham, and Vin\u00edcius Jr.\u2014the heartbeat of Real Madrid <\/a>isn\u2019t the flashiest name on the roster.<\/p>\n

It\u2019s Federico Valverde, the 2016 bargain signing from Pe\u00f1arol who cost just \u00a34.3 million ($5.7 million).<\/p>\n

What sets him apart? Valverde isn\u2019t driven by headlines or individual glory. Instead, he embodies versatility and selflessness, seamlessly slotting into roles anywhere from right-back to right wing to midfield maestro\u2014always putting the team first.<\/p>\n

He\u2019s not the one to mesmerize with silky skills or effortless elegance. Rather, Valverde\u2019s game is defined by relentless energy, fierce determination and a work rate that never quits. He covers every blade of grass, breaks up play with ruthless precision, sparks attacks with intelligent runs and chips in with vital goals.<\/p>\n

With the endurance of a long-distance runner, the tenacity of a relentless competitor and the grounded mindset of a true team player, Valverde quietly fuels Madrid\u2019s engine. Without him, it stutters.<\/p>\n

\"Declan<\/p>\n

Declan Rice is a fan favorite at Arsenal. \/ IMAGO \/ Paul Marriott<\/p>\n

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\u2014snuffing it out before it even develops.<\/p>\n

He\u2019s been the rock at the base of an Arsenal <\/a>side that\u2019s boasted one of Europe\u2019s stingiest defenses over the past two seasons, giving the back line freedom to breathe while imposing himself all over the pitch.<\/p>\n

But Rice isn\u2019t just there to break things up\u2014he builds, too. His evolution has been striking: surging runs through midfield, smart late arrivals in the box and a penchant for the spectacular. Just ask Real Madrid, who were left stunned by back-to-back free-kick rockets in the Champions League.<\/p>\n

\"Alexis<\/p>\n

Alexis Mac Allister is super under-rated, even now. \/ IMAGO \/ Propaganda Photo<\/p>\n

In 2022, Alexis Mac Allister was quietly making his mark at Brighton\u2014talented, but still flying somewhat under the radar.<\/p>\n

Then the World Cup happened, and alongside Lionel Messi, the world got a clear look at just how special he is. Throughout Argentina\u2019s title-winning run, the two forged a near-telepathic partnership, with Messi often seeking out Mac Allister and vice versa. If was as if they spoke the same footballing language.<\/p>\n

That should say everything about Mac Allister\u2019s quality. Yet, even now \u2013 a Premier League champion with Liverpool and a World Cup winner\u2014his modest and unassuming nature means some still underestimate him.<\/p>\n

But Mac Allister isn\u2019t just good; he\u2019s world-class. The quintessential modern box-to-box midfielder, he excels in every aspect of the game. Whether it\u2019s tenacious tackling, relentless ball-winning, or coming out on top in duels, he\u2019s a force to be reckoned with. Add to that an exceptional passing range\u2014long, short, sideways, forward, diagonal\u2014and Mac Allister delivers precision with every touch.<\/p>\n

\"Jo\u00e3o<\/p>\n

Vitinha (right) has formed a dynamic duo with Jo\u00e3o Neves for both club and country. \/ IMAGO\/NurPhoto<\/p>\n

“In my opinion, Vitinha is one of the best, if not the best midfielder in the world,” Luka Modri\u0107 said of Vitinha after the Portuguese midfielder helped Paris Saint-Germain<\/a> secure their first-ever Champions League title. “He\u2019s excellent on the ball and has phenomenal vision.\u201d<\/p>\n

High praise from one of the greatest to ever do it.<\/p>\n

A smooth, silky playmaker, Vitinha pulls the strings at the heart of PSG\u2019s midfield. Virtually everything they do well flows through him. He dictates tempo, unlocks defenses with pinpoint passing and brings a calming influence in even the most high-pressure moments.<\/p>\n

Thanks to his diminutive frame, close control, intelligent movement and knack for finding space, Vitinha is also a real danger around the opposition box. It\u2019s not a common trait for a holding midfielder, but it adds another layer to his already multifaceted game.<\/p>\n

\"Pedri\"<\/p>\n

Pedri is an ever-present force for club and country. \/ IMAGO\/SOPA Images<\/p>\n

The comparisons are ubiquitous, but the similarities are too distinct to ignore; Pedri is the second coming of Andr\u00e9s Iniesta.<\/p>\n

Barcelona knew he was special when they scooped him up from Las Palmas and his performances for club and country have since proven just how gifted he is.<\/p>\n

Pedri\u2019s a genius with and without the ball. He ghosts into pockets of space that seemingly don\u2019t exist, dazzles in possession and supplies teammates relentlessly. There\u2019s an aura surrounding the low-sock-donning Spaniard that\u2019s impossible to miss.<\/p>\n

Yes, injuries set him back briefly, but now fully fit and thriving under Hansi Flick, Pedri is the archetypal Bar\u00e7a and Spain midfielder\u2014all artistry, intelligence, and elegance. Right now, he\u2019s simply the best in the business.<\/p>\n

READ MORE ON THE BEST 25 PLAYERS FOR EVERY POSITION IN WORLD SOCCER<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Trying to define a “central midfielder” in modern football is no simple task. With positions more fluid than…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":11776,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[440],"tags":[49,48,561,82],"class_list":["post-11775","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-soccer","tag-ca","tag-canada","tag-soccer","tag-sports"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11775","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11775"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11775\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11776"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11775"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11775"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/ca\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11775"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}