The Premier League has been a stage for footballing brilliance, a melting pot of talent from across the globe. While every position on the pitch has seen its share of legends, it's the midfield where the magic often unfolds.
From orchestrating play to breaking up attacks, the best midfielders in Premier League history have left an indelible mark on the beautiful game. In this journey through time, we'll explore the careers and contributions of these midfield maestros, who have defined an era and earned their place in the annals of English football history.
1. Paul Scholes: The Midfield Maestro
Paul Scholes dubbed the "Ginger Prince," epitomized the complete midfielder with his exceptional vision, passing, and goal-scoring prowess. Spending his entire career at Manchester United, he secured numerous titles, including 11 Premier League titles, 3 FA Cups, 2 League Cups, 5 FA Charity/Community Shields, and 2 UEFA Champions League titles playing a pivotal role in the club's dominance. Scholes' ability to dictate the game's tempo and score crucial goals made him a fan favourite and a nightmare for opponents, crucial in United's success under Sir Alex Ferguson.
2. Steven Gerrard: The Liverpool Legend
Steven Gerrard, the Liverpool icon, was a force of nature in the Premier League, known for his leadership, work rate, and ability to drive his team forward, making him one of the best midfielders of all time. Gerrard's loyalty to Liverpool and countless memorable moments, including the "Gerrard Final" in the 2006 FA Cup, cemented his status as a club legend. His knack for scoring dramatic goals, precise passing, and tenacity in winning back possession made him a complete midfielder. He clinched two FA Cups, three League Cups, the FA Community Shield, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Cup, and the UEFA Super Cup during his time at Anfield.
3. Frank Lampard: The Goalscoring Midfielder
Undoubtedly, Frank Lampard is the greatest Chelsea midfielder of all time. Signed from West Ham for £11 million by Claudio Ranieri in 2001, he eventually became the club's all-time leading scorer with 211 goals in 648 appearances. Lampard was the quintessential goalscoring midfielder. His ability to arrive late in the box and score consistently made him a unique talent. His impact on Chelsea's success, with multiple Premier League titles, was immeasurable, setting a new standard for midfielders with his ability to create and score goals. Wearing the Blues' no. 8 jersey, he secured three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, two League Cups, two FA Community Shields, the UEFA Champions League in 2012, and the UEFA Europa League in 2013.
4. Roy Keane: The Fierce Competitor
Roy Keane, the former Manchester United captain, was a midfield general. His fierce determination, strong tackling, and leadership qualities were unrivalled. Keane was the driving force behind United's success in the late 1990s and early 2000s, winning numerous league titles and other prestigious honours. Keane's no-nonsense approach to the game made him a dominant presence in midfield. His ability to motivate his teammates and lead by example made him a true legend of the Premier League. He secured seven Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and four FA Community Shields, and in 1999, he lifted the UEFA Champions League and the Intercontinental Cup.
5. Patrick Vieira: The Arsenal Enforcer
Patrick Vieira, the talismanic French midfielder, was the engine of Arsenal's midfield during their "Invincibles" season. His physicality, ball-winning ability, and knack for scoring crucial goals made him an imposing presence. Vieira's partnership with Emmanuel Petit and later with Gilberto Silva formed a formidable spine for the Gunners. Vieira's leadership on the pitch and his ability to dominate midfield battles set him apart. His performances at Arsenal saw him clinch three Premier League titles, four FA Cups, and two FA Community Shields as he left an indelible mark on the Premier League.
6. David Silva: The Magician
David Silva, a Manchester City legend, personified the art of a midfield magician. His exceptional close control, dribbling skills, and visionary playmaking rank him among the finest Premier League midfielders ever. Silva's proficiency in unlocking defences and delivering vital assists was a defining feature of his style. His pivotal role in Manchester City's prominence in English football is immeasurable. His midfield displays exuded creativity and elegance, contributing to his collection of four Premier League titles, two FA Cups, five Football League/EFL Cups, and two FA Community Shields during his tenure at the Etihad Stadium.
7. Kevin De Bruyne: The Modern Midfield Marvel
Kevin De Bruyne, often revered as one of the best midfielders of the modern era, has been a driving force behind Manchester City's recent successes. His vision, passing range, and ability to orchestrate play make him a standout midfielder. De Bruyne's versatility allows him to play various midfield roles, from a deep-lying playmaker to an attacking midfielder. His precise through balls and crosses have unlocked countless defences, while his ability to score from long range adds another dimension to his game.
Still plying his trade at the Etihad Stadium, De Bruyne's inclusion in the list of the Premier League's best midfielders is a testament to his impact on the league. His position among the all-time greats sets him apart as a midfield marvel. As things stand, De Bruyne has won the Premier League title five times with City. In addition, he has won two FA Cups, five League/EFL Cups, the FA Charity/Community Shield, and the UEFA Champions League. He'll be top 3 once his career comes to an end.
8. Cesc Fàbregas: The Spanish Maestro
Cesc Fàbregas, renowned for his exceptional passing and footballing intelligence, left a significant mark on the Premier League during his time with Arsenal and Chelsea. His unmatched ability to create scoring opportunities and contribute to title-winning campaigns showcased his class and creativity, earning him recognition as one of the league's greatest midfielders. Achieving accolades such as the FA Cup and the FA Community Shield at Arsenal, and the Premier League, FA Cup, and Football League Cup at Chelsea, further solidified his status as a football icon.
9. Yaya Touré: The Towering Presence
Yaya Touré, the Ivorian powerhouse, left an indelible mark on the Premier League during his Manchester City tenure. His imposing physicality, skill in advancing the ball, and knack for scoring long-range goals rendered him a formidable midfield presence. Touré's profound influence on City's ascent to greatness was evident in his versatile and impactful midfield performances. His displays radiated versatility and impact, culminating in his collection of three Premier League titles, one FA Cup, two Football League/EFL Cups, and one FA Community Shield during his Etihad Stadium career.
10. Claude Makélélé: The Unsung Hero
Claude Makélélé, the French midfielder, was the unsung hero of Chelsea's success in the mid-2000s. His ability to shield the defence, break up opposition attacks, and distribute the ball efficiently allowed Chelsea's attacking talents to flourish. Makélélé's role in redefining the defensive midfield position in the Premier League was pivotal. His performances in the "Makelele role" laid the foundation for Chelsea's Premier League dominance. Claude Makélélé's performances also exuded a sense of control and mastery that defined his legacy. He earned two Premier League titles, one FA Cup, one Football League/EFL Cup, and one FA Community Shield at Stamford Bridge.
Bonus - N'Golo Kanté: The Tireless Dynamo
N'Golo Kanté, the French midfield dynamo, became a linchpin for Chelsea, showcasing his boundless energy, ball-winning ability, and capacity to cover vast areas. Highlighting his significance, his pivotal role in Chelsea's Premier League and Champions League triumphs epitomized the modern, box-to-box midfielder. Kanté clinched the Premier League title with Leicester City and repeated the feat after his transfer to Chelsea. Additionally, he added four FA Cups, the UEFA Champions League, the UEFA Europa League, the UEFA Super Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup to his illustrious list of achievements.
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