The debate over who stands as the greatest central midfielder in football history has raged for decades, with fans and pundits alike offering differing opinions. While it’s a subjective matter – as with many things in football – certain key factors allow us to assess and rank these legendary players.
Names such as Zinedine Zidane, Andrea Pirlo, Xavi Hernandez, and Lothar Matthaus are frequently mentioned when discussing the finest midfielders. However, Premier League legends like Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, and even current stars like Kevin De Bruyne also have strong cases to be included in the conversation.
Identifying the top midfielders is one thing, but ranking them based on their influence, achievements, and moments of brilliance is where the challenge truly lies. To offer some clarity, GIVEMESPORT has ranked 35 of the greatest central midfielders since 1990, taking into account several essential criteria:
- Personal Awards: Recognition at the highest level, such as the Ballon d’Or, the World Player of the Year, or Player of the Season in top leagues.
- Major Trophies: Only the biggest competitions, like the Champions League, major domestic leagues, and key national cups, are factored into this ranking.
- Impact and Influence: The influence of these players in crucial matches, especially in league deciders or cup finals.
- Importance to Their Team: Their role in the overall team dynamic, including tactical contributions and leadership.
- Iconic Moments: Memorable goals, celebrations, or match-defining performances that remain etched in football history.
Modern Icons and Manchester City’s Influence
Since joining Real Madrid from his boyhood club Penarol in 2016, Federico Valverde has cemented his place as one of the best central midfielders in the world. Valverde has already claimed two Champions League titles and three La Liga championships, with many expecting him to collect even more silverware in the future. His incredible versatility, tenacity, and ability to perform on the biggest stages set him apart.
Joshua Kimmich, while three years older than Valverde, is another modern-day great. Renowned for his tactical awareness and versatility, Kimmich has also lifted the Champions League trophy, furthering his status as one of the best in his position.
Jude Bellingham, despite being in his early twenties, feels like a seasoned veteran of the game. Since his debut for Birmingham City in 2019, Bellingham’s rise has been meteoric. In the 2023/24 season alone, he notched 23 goals, helping Real Madrid capture both La Liga and the Champions League.
Manchester City’s midfield dynasty is also well represented. Ilkay Gundogan and Fernandinho, two players instrumental in City’s domestic dominance under Pep Guardiola, feature prominently on this list. Gundogan, who has returned to Manchester, aims to continue his success, while Fernandinho has returned to his homeland, playing for Athletico Paranaense in Brazil.
Legends of the Past: Pogba, Schweinsteiger, and More
Paul Pogba is one of football’s most polarising figures. While his inconsistency has been frustrating, there have been moments in his career when he appeared unstoppable. A player blessed with extraordinary technical ability, Pogba could have ranked higher on this list if he had shown that quality consistently. Injury setbacks, a challenge he shares with Germany’s Bastian Schweinsteiger, marred what could have been an even more illustrious career for both men.
On the other hand, players like Roy Keane, Claude Makelele, and Michael Essien earned their reputations through sheer consistency. All three were defensive stalwarts, anchoring their teams and offering stability in the centre of the pitch. They were trusted and dependable figures for their respective clubs, contributing both defensively and in transitional play.
Meanwhile, Xabi Alonso, Cesc Fabregas, and Mesut Ozil redefined what it meant to be a midfield playmaker. With a combination of exceptional passing range and vision, these players mastered the art of ball retention, dictating the tempo of games and ensuring their teams remained in control. Ozil, in particular, was one of the most creative forces in football, ranking among the highest in international assists in the 21st century.
Luka Modric: A Croatian Icon
Luka Modric’s football journey is nothing short of remarkable. Often hailed as the greatest Croatian player of all time, Modric has been a model of consistency and longevity. With almost 800 appearances over 24 years, his contributions to Real Madrid and the Croatian national team are extraordinary.
Modric’s achievements include six Champions League titles with Real Madrid, but his crowning moment came in 2018 when he guided Croatia to the World Cup final. His performances in that tournament earned him the prestigious Ballon d’Or, breaking the Messi-Ronaldo stranglehold on the award.
Zinedine Zidane: The Ultimate Midfield Maestro
When discussing the greatest central midfielder of all time, one name stands above the rest – Zinedine Zidane. The Frenchman wasn’t just a footballer; he was an artist on the pitch. Standing at 6ft 2in, Zidane defied the laws of gravity, gliding across the field with grace and elegance.
Zidane’s career is filled with iconic moments, from his two goals in the 1998 World Cup final that secured France’s victory over Brazil, to his legendary volley in the 2002 Champions League final against Bayer Leverkusen – a goal that is still considered one of the greatest in the competition’s history.
Not only did Zidane achieve everything possible at the club and international level, but his performances on the biggest stages always delivered. The ability to rise to the occasion, time and time again, cements Zidane’s place as the greatest central midfielder of all time.
In conclusion, the list of the greatest central midfielders is filled with legends who have each left an indelible mark on the game. From Zidane’s artistry to Modric’s resilience and Valverde’s emerging brilliance, these players have defined eras and continue to inspire future generations.
