While football has witnessed a myriad of extraordinary players across different positions, the midfield is often considered the heartbeat of the game. The orchestration, vision, and sheer brilliance displayed by the best midfield maestros are like the conductors of a beautiful symphony as they can elevate a team from good to great.
In this write-up, we've gone way back to uncover, appreciate, and rank the 10 greatest midfielders the sport has ever known starting with a bonus.
Below Are The 10 Greatest Midfielders World Football Has Ever Seen
Bonus - Garrincha
While primarily known for his exploits on the wing, the Brazilian legend Garrincha's influence extended to the heart of the game. The Joyous Magician's ability to navigate through defences with unrivalled dribbling skills and flair made him a unique presence. Garrincha's impact on Brazil's success, including back-to-back World Cup victories in 1958 and 1962.
10. Lothar Matthäus
No exploration of midfield greatness would be complete without acknowledging the German Dynamo Lothar Matthäus. The German's versatility, leadership, and technical brilliance made him a force to be reckoned with during his illustrious career. Matthäus excelled in defensive and attacking roles, showcasing a rare blend of tenacity and finesse. His role in Germany's 1990 World Cup triumph, where he lifted the trophy as captain, cements his legacy as one of the best midfielders in history. Additionally, Matthäus earned recognition as the FIFA World Player of the Year in 1991 due to his longevity and consistency at the game's highest level.
9. Paul Scholes
Paul Scholes, a Manchester United legend, embodied the term "midfield maestro" throughout his illustrious career. Known for his impeccable passing, long-range strikes, and innate football intelligence, Scholes was the heartbeat of the United midfield under Sir Alex Ferguson. His loyalty to the Red Devils and a trophy-laden career cemented Scholes as one of the greatest English midfielders. Despite his unassuming demeanour off the pitch, Scholes's on-field brilliance spoke volumes about his impact on the beautiful game.
8. Andrea Pirlo
Italy's maestro, Andrea Pirlo, brings his unique blend of elegance and precision to our ranking. Pirlo's ability to dictate play from deep midfield positions and execute long-range passes with accuracy sets him apart as a true artist of the game. Hailing from Flero, his influence at AC Milan, Juventus, and the Italian national team secures his stats as one of the best midfielders ever. Pirlo's memorable moments are plentiful, but perhaps one of the most iconic was his masterful performance in the 2006 FIFA World Cup final, where he orchestrated Italy's midfield with poise and elegance, guiding his team to victory over France and clinching the World Cup title for Italy.
7. Andres Iniesta
Closely linked with Xavi and often overshadowed by the limelight is the Silent Genius, Andres Iniesta. Iniesta seamlessly complements our list. His dribbling ability and close ball control were next to none. Iniesta had this amazing knack for ghosting past defenders and delivering crucial goals in high-pressure situations, marking him as a midfield virtuoso. As one of the best midfielders in the world ever, Iniesta's contributions to Barcelona and the Spanish national team remain exceptional.
One of his most memorable moments was with Spain at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where he scored the only goal in extra time as Vincente del Bosque's side lifted their first-ever World Cup trophy. This iconic instance secured victory for Spain and earned Iniesta a place among the footballing elite.
6. Xavi Hernandez
In the contemporary era, for Barcelona and the Spanish national team, Xavi Hernandez emerges as a defining force in midfield brilliance. His tenure at Barca saw him orchestrate some of the most beautiful football ever played alongside Iniesta, forming a midfield duo that seemed almost telepathic in their understanding.
Xavi's precise passing and football intelligence contributed to Barcelona's golden era, leading to multiple La Liga and Champions League triumphs. One particularly significant time from Xavi's career is his masterful performance in the 2011 Champions League final, where he controlled the midfield and led Barca to a convincing 3-1 win over Man United. To gain deeper insight into the man, explore more facts about Xavi.
5. Zinedine Zidane
Enter Zinedine Zidane, a maestro known for his elegance on the ball and impeccable vision. His ability to control the tempo of a match and deliver moments of sheer brilliance ranks him among the greatest midfielders of all time. Zidane's impact on the world stage, particularly during the 1998 World Cup, solidifies his place in this prestigious lineup. If Zidane was in your team, you could expect nothing short of grace and precision in every move he made on the field.
One unforgettable moment that encapsulates Zidane's brilliance is his stunning performance in the 2002 UEFA Champions League final, where he scored one of the most important goals in the competition's history with a breathtaking volley against Bayer Leverkusen. Zidane's ability to rise to the occasion in the biggest matches makes him a true icon of the midfield.
4. Johan Cruyff
Johan Cruyff, a pioneer of "Total Football," blends into our list. The Dutchman's tactical intelligence and versatility revolutionised the midfield role. Cruyff's influence extended beyond his playing days, shaping the philosophies of generations to come, as we have seen over the years with the likes of Pep Guardiola. Cruyff undeniably earns a spot as one of the best midfielders of all-time. He is held in high esteem following his innovative football philosophy, particularly during his time at Barcelona.
One unforgettable moment in Cruyff's tenure at Barcelona is his leadership as a player and later as a coach, guiding the club to their first European Cup triumph in 1992. His commitment to expansive, attacking football, known as "Total Football," brought success and transformed Barca into a powerhouse of European football.
3. George Best
Shifting our focus to a different era, George Best, the Belfast Boy, graced the football world with his dazzling skills and flair. While primarily an attacking midfielder, Best's ability to influence the game from various positions makes him a unique inclusion. Best's performances for Manchester United in the 1960s, marked by extraordinary dribbling and goal-scoring prowess, have left an enduring legacy. His charisma and talent continue to inspire and solidify his place among the greats of football.
2. Diego Maradona
Moving forward, we encounter the indomitable Argentina, Diego Maradona. Widely celebrated for his mesmerising dribbling and precise passing, Maradona's influence in the midfield was profound. His innate ability to navigate tight spaces and create scoring opportunities solidifies his place among the best midfielders ever.
He shone at club level and internationally. His time at Napoli, in particular, was filled with catchy moments. One such iconic instance was his role in leading Napoli to their first-ever Serie A title in the 1986-1987 season, a triumph that remains etched in the hearts of Napoli fans. Additionally, his spectacular solo goal against Juventus in the 1987 Italian Cup final is still celebrated as one of the greatest goals in Napoli's history.
1. Pele
Our journey begins with the legendary Pele. A name synonymous with football greatness. His vision and ability to control the flow of the game set him apart. Pele's influence was not limited to scoring goals; he orchestrated plays, leaving an everlasting imprint on football. Undoubtedly, Pele ranks as the greatest midfielder in history. To gain further insight into the legend, explore more facts about Pele.
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