20 Best Midfielders in the World (2024)

When it comes to the engine room of a football team, midfielders are the unsung heroes who often dictate the pace, control the game, and create magic out of nothing. The year 2024 has blessed us with an incredible lineup of midfield maestros, each bringing their unique flair to the pitch. Let’s dive into the list of the 20 best midfielders in the world (2024) and see what makes them the cream of the crop.

1. Rodri (Manchester City)

Topping the list is Manchester City’s midfield anchor, Rodri. His tactical intelligence, ability to break up play, and vision have made him the heartbeat of Pep Guardiola’s side. With Rodri pulling the strings, City has dominated possession and controlled games, making him the best midfielder in the world right now.

2. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)

At just 21, Jude Bellingham has taken the football world by storm. His move to Real Madrid has only amplified his impact, as he combines raw power, finesse, and maturity beyond his years. Bellingham’s energy and box-to-box abilities make him a complete midfielder, and he’s only getting better.

3. Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City)

It’s hard to talk about world-class midfielders without mentioning Kevin De Bruyne. Known for his incredible passing range, vision, and ability to deliver clutch moments, KDB remains one of the most feared playmakers. Injuries may have slowed him down slightly, but when fit, he’s still one of the best.

4. Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich)

Jamal Musiala’s rise at Bayern Munich has been meteoric. This young German prodigy has shown that he can do it all—dribble, pass, and score. His flair and creativity are reminiscent of a young Lionel Messi, and his potential seems limitless. Expect to see Musiala dominating for years to come.

5. Declan Rice (Arsenal)

Declan Rice’s transfer to Arsenal has elevated his game to new heights. As a defensive midfielder, Rice excels at breaking up opposition play, but his passing and leadership qualities make him stand out. He’s quickly become a cornerstone for Arsenal’s midfield and one of the best in the Premier League.

6. Martin Ødegaard (Arsenal)

Arsenal’s resurgence can be attributed in no small part to Martin Ødegaard. The Norwegian playmaker’s vision, technical skill, and ability to unlock defenses have been instrumental in Arsenal’s success. Ødegaard’s calmness under pressure and knack for scoring crucial goals make him a top-tier midfielder.

7. Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)

Federico Valverde’s versatility is what sets him apart. Whether deployed as a central midfielder, winger, or even right-back, Valverde delivers with intensity and determination. His lung-busting runs and knack for scoring important goals make him a fan favorite at the Bernabéu.

8. Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United)

Bruno Fernandes remains Manchester United’s talisman. His creativity, eye for goal, and leadership on the pitch have kept United competitive, even during challenging times. Fernandes’ ability to produce moments of brilliance out of nowhere keeps him among the elite midfielders.

9. Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid)

Aurélien Tchouaméni has quickly established himself as a key figure in Real Madrid’s midfield. His physicality, ball-winning skills, and ability to transition play make him a formidable presence. Tchouaméni is one to watch as he continues to develop into a world-class talent.

10. Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid)

Eduardo Camavinga’s versatility is a manager’s dream. Whether playing as a left-back or in central midfield, Camavinga brings energy, composure, and technical brilliance to the field. At Real Madrid, he’s proving to be an indispensable asset with a bright future ahead.

11. Fabian Ruiz (PSG)

Fabian Ruiz has been a revelation for PSG, adding creativity and control to their midfield. His ability to pick a pass and dictate the tempo of the game has made him a key player in Paris. With Ruiz in the mix, PSG’s midfield looks more balanced and dangerous.

12. Luka Modrić (Real Madrid)

Even at 38, Luka Modrić is still going strong. The Croatian maestro’s footballing brain, technical ability, and experience make him an ageless wonder. Modrić continues to orchestrate play for Real Madrid with elegance and class, proving that age is just a number.

13. İlkay Gündoğan (Barcelona)

İlkay Gündoğan’s move to Barcelona has been a masterstroke. The German international brings experience, intelligence, and a knack for scoring important goals. Gündoğan’s leadership on and off the pitch has made him a vital part of Xavi’s rebuilding project at Camp Nou.

14. Pedri (Barcelona)

Pedri is often compared to a young Andrés Iniesta, and for good reason. His close control, vision, and ability to glide past opponents make him a joy to watch. At Barcelona, Pedri is already a key player, and his potential suggests he could be one of the all-time greats.

15. Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool)

Alexis Mac Allister has seamlessly transitioned into life at Liverpool. The Argentine midfielder’s creativity, work rate, and ability to pop up with important goals have endeared him to the Anfield faithful. Mac Allister looks set to be a crucial player for Liverpool’s midfield in the coming years.

16. Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona)

Frenkie de Jong’s ability to carry the ball, resist pressure, and pick out passes makes him one of Barcelona’s most important players. His intelligence on the ball and defensive contributions ensure that he remains a key figure in Xavi’s plans.

17. Hakan Çalhanoğlu (Inter Milan)

Hakan Çalhanoğlu has been instrumental for Inter Milan, especially with his set-piece prowess and ability to control the game from midfield. His creativity and goal-scoring ability make him a valuable asset for the Nerazzurri as they challenge for titles.

18. Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig)

Dani Olmo’s versatility and flair have made him one of RB Leipzig’s standout players. Whether operating as a winger or central midfielder, Olmo’s ability to create and score goals makes him a constant threat to the opposition.

19. Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United)

Kobbie Mainoo is one of the most exciting young talents at Manchester United. Though still developing, his composure on the ball, vision, and tactical awareness have caught the eye. Mainoo is a player with immense potential, and his future looks bright.

20. Nicolò Barella (Inter Milan)

Rounding out the list is Nicolò Barella, a midfield dynamo for Inter Milan. Barella’s energy, tenacity, and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively make him one of the best all-around midfielders in the game today.

Conclusion

The 2024 season has truly been a showcase of midfield mastery. From Rodri’s dominance at Manchester City to Barella’s all-around brilliance at Inter Milan, the world’s best midfielders are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible on the pitch. These 20 players aren’t just the best midfielders in the world; they’re the lifeblood of their teams, making football the beautiful game that it is. Keep an eye on these stars as they continue to dazzle and define the future of football.