Greatest Midfielders Ever: In the world of football, midfielders serve as the core of a team, controlling the flow and pace of the game. They are the essential link between defense and attack, with some excelling as tough defenders while others shine as creative playmakers. Midfielders have consistently made a lasting impact on the sport, shaping its evolution and inspiring future generations.
This list honors the 25 greatest midfielders of all time, celebrating those who have revolutionized the position, broken new ground, and left a lasting legacy.
Greatest Midfielders Ever
These are the top 25 best football midfielders of all time.
25. Kaka
- Date of Birth: 22 April 1982
- Height: 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)
Kaka was a talented midfielder who made a big impact, especially with AC Milan, where he won major titles the Serie A and UEFA Champions League.
He started with São Paulo in 2001, quickly becoming a top player in Brazil before joining Milan in 2003. In 2007, he had an outstanding year, winning the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year. He later moved to Real Madrid in 2009 but didn’t find the same success, though he won the Copa del Rey in 2011.
Kaka retired in 2017 after playing for Orlando City in the MLS, and while he was widely recognized, some feel he was overshadowed by other Brazilian players.
24. David Beckham
- Born: 2 May 1975
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
David Beckham is a globally recognized figure, but some might overlook his exceptional skills as a footballer. He is considered one of the greatest midfielders in history, known for his precise passing, exceptional crossing, and ability to bend free-kicks.
Beckham started his professional career with Manchester United in 1992, quickly becoming a key player and helping the team win six Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and one European Cup. He later played for Real Madrid, LA Galaxy, AC Milan, and Paris Saint-Germain. After moving to LA Galaxy in 2007, he played for five years, winning two MLS Cups.
Beckham retired in 2013, having achieved global stardom and becoming one of the most marketable athletes, known for his appearances in commercials and fashion campaigns, especially during his time in the United States.
23. Luis Figo
- Date of Birth: 4 November 1972
- Height: 1.80 m (5 ft 11 in)
Luis Figo is a highly regarded Portuguese footballer known for his impact as an attacking midfielder. He played for top clubs Sporting CP, FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan.
Figo was a key player for the Portuguese national team from 1989 to 2006, earning 127 caps and winning the Ballon d’Or in 2000 and FIFA World Player of the Year in 2001. With his 106 assists in La Liga, he ranks second only to Lionel Messi.
Figo won many major titles, including four La Liga titles, a UEFA Champions League, and four Serie A titles. He was named Portuguese Footballer of the Year six times and was included in the FIFA 100 list of the greatest living players in 2004.
Recognized as one of the best Portuguese players and the 23rd-best midfielder in football history, Figo’s skills and achievements have cemented his legacy in the sport.
22. Raymond Kopa
- Date of Birth: 13 October 1931
- Height: 1.68 m (5 ft 6 in)
Raymond Kopa was a former French footballer known for his speed, dribbling, and game intelligence. He played for Stade de Reims and Real Madrid, where he won multiple titles.
Kopa started his career with Angers before moving to Reims, where he won four French championships and reached a Champions League final. He later joined Real Madrid, winning two La Liga titles and three Champions League titles.
Kopa also played for the French national team from 1952 to 1962, playing a key role in the 1958 World Cup where France finished third. He scored 18 goals in 45 games for France and won the Ballon d’Or in 1958, being regarded as one of the greatest attacking midfielders of all time.
21. Cesc Fabregas
- Date of Birth: 4 May 1987
- Height: 1.79 m (5 ft 10 in)
Cesc Fabregas has played for several top soccer teams and is known for his versatility. He joined Arsenal in 2004, quickly becoming a key player and helping them win the FA Cup in 2005.
In 2011, he returned to Barcelona, contributing to their La Liga win in 2013 and Copa del Rey victory in 2012. Fabregas then moved to Chelsea in 2014, where he won Premier League titles in 2015 and 2017, as well as the League Cup in 2015.
Although Fabregas has achieved much in his career, he still has more to achievement and could climb higher in the rankings if he continues to perform well.
20. Toni Kroos
- Date of Birth: 4 January 1990
- Height: 1.83 m (6 ft 0 in)
Toni Kroos is a midfielder for Real Madrid, known for his exceptional passing and reliability on the field.
Kroos has been a key player for the German national team since 2005. At Real Madrid, he has won the UEFA Champions League in 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2022, making him the only German player to win it five times.
Widely considered one of the most well-rounded midfielders, Kroos consistently starts despite tough competition. He led in assists at the 2014 World Cup and was Germany’s Footballer of the Year in 2018. According to our ranking, Kroos is the 20th-best midfielder in the world.
19. Frank Lampard
- Date of Birth: 20 June 1978
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (1.84 m)
Frank Lampard, a Chelsea legend, is celebrated for his impressive career and achievements. A crucial player for England’s golden generation, Lampard was known for his ability to score important goals from midfield.
He scored over 150 goals in the Premier League, the most by a midfielder. At Chelsea, Lampard won 13 trophies and was a top performer from 2004 to 2006, finishing as the Ballon d’Or runner-up in 2005.
His contributions and memorable performances have left a lasting impact on Chelsea fans.
18. Bobby Charlton
- Date of Birth: 11 October 1937
- Height: 5 ft 8 in (1.73 m)
Sir Bobby Charlton is a football legend known for his exceptional skills as both a playmaker and a goal scorer. He made his debut with Manchester United in 1956 and quickly found success, winning the league title in 1957 and again in 1965 and 1967.
Despite the 1958 plane crash that devastated the team, Charlton helped Manchester United win the 1968 Champions League. He earned 106 caps and scored 49 goals for the English national team, playing a key role in England’s only World Cup win in 1966.
Charlton is widely regarded as one of the greatest attacking midfielders of all time.
17. Gianni Rivera
- Born: 18 August 1943
- Height: 1.75 m (5 ft 9 in)
Gianni Rivera was a standout attacking midfielder known for his creativity, technical skills, and exceptional dribbling. He began his career with Alessandria before joining AC Milan, where he became a key player.
Rivera won the Italian championship three times and the Champions League twice, in 1963 and 1969. He scored 163 goals in 658 games for Milan, earning legendary status.
Rivera also represented Italy in four World Cups, reaching the final in 1970, and won the 1968 European Championship. With 14 goals in 60 appearances for Italy, he was awarded the Ballon d’Or in 1969 and is regarded as one of the greatest Italian players ever.
16. Lothar Matthäus
- Date of Birth: 21 March 1961
- Height: 1.74 m (5 ft 9 in)
Lothar Matthäus, born on March 21, 1961, in Erlangen, Germany, is a former footballer and coach known for his midfield skills. He played for Mönchengladbach, Bayern Munich, Inter Milan, and MetroStars.
Matthäus had a distinguished international career with Germany from 1979 to 2000, captaining the team to World Cup victory in 1990. He also reached two European Cup finals, in 1987 and 1999.
Matthäus won the Ballon d’Or in 1990 and was named FIFA Footballer of the Year the same year. His precise passing, strong tackling, and powerful shooting have earned him a place as one of the greatest midfielders ever, ranking 16th in our list of the top 25 midfielders ever.
15. Zico
- Date of Birth: 3 March 1953
- Height: 1.72 m (5 ft 8 in)
Zico is a legendary figure in football, especially known for his time with Flamengo and the Brazilian national team.
Often considered Brazil’s greatest attacking midfielder, he was famous for his exceptional vision, game organization, and goal-scoring ability, averaging more than a goal every two games.
Zico, excelled at free-kicks and spent most of his career at Flamengo, winning four Brazilian championships and the Copa Libertadores in 1981. While he didn’t win major titles with Brazil, he was influential, scoring 52 goals in 72 appearances from 1976 to 1988.
14. Frank Rijkaard
- Date of Birth: 30 September 1962
- Height: 1.90 m (6 ft 3 in)
Frank Rijkaard was a versatile and influential player known for his time with Ajax, Milan, and the Netherlands. He excelled as a defensive midfielder, using his physicality and excellent decision-making to dominate on the field.
Rijkaard’s ability to create opportunities and contribute in attacking roles, along with his imposing height of 6’3″, made him a formidable opponent.
His disciplined approach helped his teams achieve significant success and win many trophies.
13. Paul Scholes
- Date of Birth: 16 November 1974
- Height: 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m)
Paul Scholes, ranked 13th on this list, is a legendary figure at Manchester United. He played a key role in the club’s success under Sir Alex Ferguson, helping transform Manchester United into a European powerhouse.
Known for his exceptional technical skills and passing abilities, Scholes made a notable transition from striker to midfielder, playing a crucial part in Manchester United’s many trophy wins.
His remarkable talent, commitment to creating opportunities for his teammates, and respect from both teammates and opponents make him one of the most esteemed players of his generation.
12. Steven Gerrard
- Date of Birth: 30 May 1980
- Height: 6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
Steven Gerrard is celebrated as one of the greatest midfielders in English football history. Spending most of his career at Liverpool FC, he also earned 114 caps for the English national team.
Known for his versatility, Gerrard excelled at both defending and attacking, and was renowned for his powerful shots. His leadership and remarkable performances, including a key role in Liverpool’s UEFA Champions League win in 2005, solidified his legacy.
From 2004 to 2010, Gerrard’s brilliance lifted a relatively average Liverpool team to new heights, showcasing his exceptional skill and impact on the game.
11. Andrea Pirlo
- Date of Birth: 19 May 1979
- Height: 1.77 m (5 ft 10 in)
Andrea Pirlo, now managing Sampdoria, was a transformative midfielder during his playing career from the 1990s to the 2010s. Known for his exceptional vision and passing, Pirlo revolutionized the playmaker role.
Whether with Milan, Juventus, or the Italian national team, his impact on the game was profound. His career boasts a World Cup, UEFA Champions League titles, multiple Serie A wins, and domestic cups, marking him as one of the most decorated midfielders in European football.
Pirlo’s calm demeanor and precise passing, especially from set-pieces, have cemented his legacy as one of Italy’s greatest players.
10. Michael Platini
- Born: 21 June 1955
- Height: 1.79 m (5 ft 10 in)
Michel Platini, born on June 21, 1955, in Jœuf, France, is consider as one of the greatest attacking midfielders in football history. His career highlights include successful stints with AS Nancy-Lorraine, AS Saint-Étienne, and Juventus FC.
Platini scored an impressive 356 goals and was named the best French footballer of the 20th century by France Football, surpassing Zidane and Kopa. At Juventus, he won two Serie A titles and the 1985 Champions League, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer.
Platini also led France to victory in the 1984 European Championship and was the tournament’s top scorer, holding the record for most goals in European Championship history. In 72 appearances for France, he scored 41 goals and became the only player to win the Ballon d’Or three times consecutively.
9. Ryan Giggs
- Date of Birth: 29 November 1973
- Height: 5 ft 10 in (1.79 m)
Ryan Giggs, a Manchester United icon, is renowned for his extraordinary career in the Premier League. Starting his professional journey with Manchester United in 1991 at the age of 17, Giggs spent his entire career at the club. He played 963 matches, scoring 168 goals, and won a record 13 Premier League titles. His impressive achievements also include 2 UEFA Champions League titles, 4 FA Cups, and 3 League Cups.
Giggs was pivotal in Manchester United’s dominance during the 1990s and early 2000s, showcasing remarkable versatility as he transitioned through various positions, including a strong midfield role.
Additionally, he earned 64 caps and scored 12 goals for the Wales national team. His contributions to both club and country solidified his legacy as one of football’s greatest players.
8. Johan Cruyff
- Date of Birth: 25 April 1947
- Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)
Johan Cruyff, a football icon known for his exceptional skills as an attacking midfielder, left a lasting legacy despite retiring over 35 years ago. He began his illustrious career at Ajax Amsterdam, where he won eight Dutch titles and three consecutive European Cups between 1971 and 1973.
Cruyff’s impact continued at FC Barcelona, helping them secure La Liga in 1974. Internationally, he earned 48 caps and scored 33 goals for the Netherlands, leading them to the 1974 World Cup final and the 1976 European Championship semi-finals.
As the first player to win the Ballon d’Or three times, in 1971, 1973, and 1974, Cruyff revolutionized football with his innovative play, inspiring teams to adopt a more attacking and dynamic approach.
7. Kevin De Bruyne
- Date of Birth: 28 June 1991
- Height: 1.81 m (5 ft 11 in)
Kevin de Bruyne is widely regarded as one of the top midfielders in the world. At 33, his exceptional passing, dribbling, and shooting skills have firmly established him as a key player in Belgian football history.
Having joined Manchester City from Wolfsburg, where he was the Bundesliga’s best player, de Bruyne has been instrumental in City’s success, including winning the FA Cup, Premier League, and Champions League in the 2022/23 season.
His ability to create space and opportunities for his teammates often goes underappreciated, but his impact on the field and his fit within his team’s tactical systems make him an ideal player and a standout talent in the game.
6. Luka Modric
- Date of Birth: 9 September 1985
- Height: 1.72 m (5 ft 8 in)
At 37 years old, Luka Modric remains one of the world’s premier midfielders. He has been a crucial part of the Croatian national team since 2006 and joined Real Madrid in 2012 after his stint with Tottenham Hotspur.
Modric’s exceptional ability to predict plays, maintain excellent ball control, and his strategic foresight were key in Real Madrid’s success, including their three consecutive UEFA Champions League titles. In 2018, he broke the decade-long dominance of Messi and Ronaldo by winning the Ballon d’Or and FIFA World Player of the Year after leading Croatia to the World Cup final.
Despite lacking physical advantages, Modric’s intelligence and quick, purposeful play make him a formidable opponent on the field.
5. Andrés Iniesta
- Date of Birth: 11 May 1984
- Height: 1.72 m (5 ft 8 in)
Andrés Iniesta is widely considered one of the greatest midfielders of all time. His elegance, vision, and technical ability have earned him legendary status in football.
He spent 16 seasons with FC Barcelona, where he became one of the most decorated footballers in history, winning nine Spanish championships, six Spanish Cups, and four Champions League titles. After playing 675 games, scoring 57 goals, and providing 117 assists for Barcelona, he moved to Emirates to conclude his career.
Iniesta also achieved great success with the Spanish national team, winning the Euros in 2008 and 2012 and the World Cup in 2010. Known for his exceptional ball control, creativity, and precision, Iniesta’s legacy as one of the greatest midfielders is well established as he nears the end of his career.
4. Ronaldinho
- Date of Birth: 21 March 1980
- Height: 1.82 m (6 ft 0 in)
Ronaldinho Gaucho was another legendary midfielder known for his exceptional skills and flair. His ability to mesmerize crowds with his dribbling, tricks, and free-kicks made him one of the most entertaining players of his generation.
Ronaldinho had a brilliant career, playing for Grêmio, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona, and AC Milan, while representing the Brazilian national team from 1999 to 2013. Known for his exceptional skills, he won many accolades, including the FIFA World Player of the Year in 2004 and 2005, the Ballon d’Or in 2005, and the Brazilian Golden Ball in 2012.
Ronaldinho was named Player of the Decade in 2009 and was instrumental in Brazil’s 2002 World Cup and 2005 Confederations Cup victories. With 97 caps and 33 goals for Brazil, his creativity and versatility as an attacking midfielder made him one of the greatest in football history, earning him the title of the 4th-best midfielder ever.
3. Xavi
- Date of Birth: 25 January 1980
- Height: 1.70 m (5 ft 7 in)
Xavi, a legendary Spanish footballer, spent the majority of his career at FC Barcelona, where he later became the club’s coach in 2021. Renowned for his exceptional passing and playmaking skills, Xavi was instrumental in Barcelona’s success, winning the Champions League four times (2006, 2009, 2011, 2015) and many other titles, including the Club World Cup and Spanish Super Cups.
He also played a key role in Spain’s victory at UEFA Euro 2008, the 2010 FIFA World Cup, and UEFA Euro 2012, earning the Player of the Tournament award in Euro 2008.
Xavi is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders in football history, ranking 3rd in our all-time list. His ability to create opportunities and assist his teammates was unmatched, making him a pivotal figure in both Barcelona and Spain’s golden eras.
2. Zinedine Zidane
- Date of Birth: 23 June 1972
- Height: 1.85 m (6 ft 1 in)
Zinédine Zidane, regarded as the greatest French footballer, is a legend in both playing and managing. Known for his tactical brilliance, Zidane played for clubs AS Cannes, Juventus, and Real Madrid, where he won the Champions League and multiple league titles.
He was pivotal in France’s 1998 World Cup win, scoring twice in the final, and also led them to victory in Euro 2000. In 2006, he almost brought France another World Cup, earning the tournament’s Golden Ball.
Zidane’s legacy as one of the greatest midfielders in football history is firmly established.
1. Diego Maradona
- Date of Birth: 30 October 1960
- Height: 1.65 m (5 ft 5 in)
Diego Maradona is widely considered one of the greatest footballers of all time and the top midfielder in history. After starting with Argentinos Juniors and Boca Juniors, where he won the Argentine championship, Maradona moved to FC Barcelona, enjoying moderate success.
However, his true brilliance emerged at Napoli, where he led the club to its first-ever Serie A title in 1987 and won the UEFA Cup in 1989. Maradona’s legendary status is cemented by his pivotal role in Argentina’s 1986 World Cup victory and reaching the final again in 1990.
Known for his magical ball control and game-changing abilities, Maradona left an indelible mark on football.