Best midfielders in the world 2025

In the heart of every great team lies its engine room.

Midfielders in the modern game are required to do it all - break up play, drive their side forward, provide a creative spark and find the net themselves.

The best of the best come in different shapes and sizes, from physical enforcers to all-action athletes and poetic playmakers, but it is their influence on games that really defines them.

Picking just 10 from the wealth of talent in the game today is no mean feat. We've looked at out-and-out midfielders rather than those that play a little further forward while to guide our hand, we’ve judged players on their talent, recent success and production, and aesthetics.

RadioTimes.com brings you our definitive list of the 10 best midfielders in the world in 2025.

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10. Scott McTominay (Napoli)

Scott McTominay enjoyed one of the great seasons in 2024/25. Underappreciated at Man Utd, the Scot has become a fan favourite at Napoli and was named Serie A player of the season after helping them to win the title.

McTominay's constant energy, driving runs forward, and goal-scoring talents make him a perfect fit for Antonio Conte, and in return, the Italian coach has turned him into a top player.

9. Federico Valverde (Real Madrid)

Great midfielders raise the levels of the players around them. Enter Real Madrid’s Fede Valverde. The Uruguayan has had to work to establish himself but has become a key piece of the Los Blancos puzzle with his ceaseless industry, smart passing, and ferocious right foot.

Though he is often overshadowed by the stars at the Bernabeu, he gets his dues on this list.

8. Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool)

Ryan Gravenberch's ascent in recent years has been a little unexpected but the Dutchman has become the key cog in Liverpool's Premier League-winning midfield.

Gravenberch combines defensive solidity with calm yet incisive distribution, driving runs forward, and even a proper goal threat. It's easy to forget – and frightening for those outside Anfield – that he is still just 23.

7. Joao Neves (PSG)

Beating off other European giants in the race for Joao Neves might prove to be one of the best pieces of business that PSG ever do and has already delivered them the Champions League.

It's rare to see a diminutive midfielder be as defensively dominant as the 21-year-old is, while he is nothing short of brilliant with the ball at his feet and has the agility to weave through defenders.

6. Moises Caicedo (Chelsea)

Moises Caicedo faced a lot of early criticism but is living up to his hefty price tag at Stamford Bridge under Enzo Maresca.

The amount of ground he covers and defensive work he gets through can often mean his quality on the ball is overlooked but the Ecuadorian is fast becoming one of the Premier League's most complete midfielders.

5. Vitinha (PSG)

Vitinha established himself as one of the world's finest midfielders as he helped PSG end their long wait for Champions League success last season.

The Portugal international is ridiculously composed and smart in possession, which, alongside his vision, allows him to pull the strings and run games from the centre of the park.

4. Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid)

Jude Bellingham has thrived in the Real Madrid pressure cooker and followed up his remarkable debut campaign with a strong second season.

Whether it's in a holding role or further forward, the Birmingham boy turned global superstar continues to take hold of games and has shown a talent for producing in big moments– something England fans will hope to see continue at the World Cup in 2026.

3. Rodri (Man City)

Were it not for his recent ACL injury, the Man City and Spain midfield general would likely still top this list. Rodri offers an unparalleled defensive presence in the middle of the park while his creativity and penchant for important goals are underrated.

Man City's struggles without him only served to further emphasise his talents but his time on the sidelines has allowed others to move above him in our thoughts.

2. Pedri (Barcelona

Still just 22, Pedri is already among the finest midfield operators in the world. His dazzling feet, clever movement and brilliant passing make him a nightmare for opposing sides and a joy to watch.

Standing out in Barcelona and Spain squads stacked with talent is not easy but the Spaniard always shines, no matter whether he's on a domestic, European, or international stage.

1. Declan Rice (Arsenal)

Declan Rice has established himself as a truly world-class all-action midfielder since arriving at Arsenal and, in our eyes, the finest player at the position in the game.

The 26-year-old's defensive strengths and ability to drive his side forward have long been clear but the attacking quality and set-piece threat that he has shown for the Gunners have seen him reach new heights.

Who is the best midfielder in the world?

No one is more influential from the middle of the park – both with and without the ball – than Declan Rice.

He will be central to Arsenal's trophy charge this season and to England's hopes of winning the World Cup 2026.

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