The 25 Greatest Midfielders in Premier League History (Ranked)

Throughout the decades, since its inception in 1992, the Premier League has been graced by some of the most extraordinary footballing talents the world has ever seen. No position has been more influential in shaping the outcome of matches and entire seasons than midfield – arguably the most important position on the pitch.

Whether it’s an attacking midfield player who looks to contribute bundles of goals and assists, or a defensive monster who protects the back line with everything they have, there are many different types of midfield players. Trying to rank all the various engine room specialists, then, is a tough task.

Ranking factors

Trying to decide on the best player in any position on the pitch has a degree of subjectivity to it, and that is no different in the midfield department. Some candidates almost pick themselves with their extraordinary talent and remarkable trophy hauls, but the order is always going to be up for debate. This is why GIVEMESPORT have come up with the following factors to judge midfield players:

• Goals
• Assists
• Trophies
• Expectation
• Quality of teams they represented
• Longevity

Based on the criteria above, the 25 greatest midfielders in Premier League history have now been ranked. There’s no question that all the names mentioned have made their mark on England’s top flight – arguably the best league in world football – but there could be some movement in terms of the rankings if active players continue to shine at the highest level.

25 Scott Parker (1997-2017)

Premier League clubs: Charlton Athletic, Chelsea, Newcastle, West Ham United, Tottenham, Fulham

Scott Parker was the epitome of a hardworking, tenacious midfielder. Across numerous clubs, he consistently demonstrated a tremendous work rate, excellent tackling ability, and a knack for breaking up play. He wasn’t just a workhorse in midfield, however, as the Englishman had an eye for a long-range pass.

His performances earned him the Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year award in 2011, making him worthy of a spot on this list. While he spent the majority of his career between mid-table and the lower end of the Premier League, Parker was always viewed as one of the best in his position due to his incredible work ethic as well as his appetite for a solid tackle.

24 Nemanja Matic (2009-2011, 2014-2017)

Premier League clubs: Chelsea, Manchester United

Matic was a key figure in midfield for both Chelsea and Manchester United. Known for his physical presence, defensive skills, and ability to control the tempo of the game, the former Chelsea man played a significant role in the Blues’ 2014-15 and 2016-17 Premier League titles.

The Serbian had originally been let go by the west London outfit before José Mourinho returned to the club and brought Matic back to Stamford Bridge after his great spell at Benfica. He was key to allowing Cesc Fàbregas the freedom to be creative in an attacking sense, carrying out all the dirty work in front of John Terry and Gary Cahill. Mourinho then brought Matic to Man United with him, showing the trust ‘The Special One’ had in the defensive-minded midfielder.

23 Gareth Barry (1998-2020)

Premier League clubs: Aston Villa, Manchester City, Everton, West Brom

Gareth Barry was one of the most consistent performers in the Premier League. Renowned for his work rate, passing ability, and tactical intelligence, Barry’s influence spanned several clubs, and he holds the record for the most Premier League appearances.

While not the most flashy of players, he was consistent for any side he played for, be it Aston Villa, Man City or even West Brom. Barry’s transformation from a young midfielder that was full of energy and desire to get forward to contribute goals and assists to a more reserved figure that would patrol the middle of the park looking for fires to put out is very understated. One of the best to do it of his generation.

22 Mikel Arteta (2005-2016)

Premier League clubs: Everton, Arsenal

Mikel Arteta was a consistent performer for both Everton and Arsenal. His technical skills, creativity, and set-piece ability were key features of his game, and he was often the creative hub of his teams. Now a manager at Arsenal, Arteta is hoping to bring through the next crop of world-class midfielders in north London.

He was far from being a prolific goalscorer, but the Spaniard scored several special goals on English soil, including free-kicks and volleys from range. Arteta has taken the intelligence he showed on the pitch into his coaching and management and is widely regarded as one of the best minds in the Premier League currently.

21 Fernandinho (2013-2022)

Premier League clubs: Manchester City

As Manchester City’s midfield lynchpin, Fernandinho’s role in their success cannot be overstated. His defensive skills, work rate, and ability to dictate play from deep have been crucial. The Brazilian’s adaptability and tactical understanding have also allowed him to slot into defence when needed.

Rodri took over the mantle from Fernandinho and while the Spaniard continues to impress, he will need to match the longevity and consistency of his Brazilian peer to be considered for this list. The Brazil international was the glue that held Pep Guardiola’s City team together in their well-documented battles with Liverpool for the Premier League title.

20 Jordan Henderson (2008-2023)

Premier League clubs: Sunderland, Liverpool

Jordan Henderson’s growth as a player has been impressive, with his leadership, work rate, and passing ability proving crucial in Liverpool’s recent success – including their 2019-20 Premier League win. Henderson’s ability to control games, his tenacity in midfield, and his leadership saw him become an integral part of Liverpool’s team under Jurgen Klopp. There are even some that believe Brendan Rodgers’ Liverpool team would have gone on to lift the Premier League trophy in 2013-14 had the midfielder not got himself suspended for some of the crucial final fixtures.

A controversial decision to move to Al-Ettifaq in Saudi Arabia after the completion of the 2022-23 campaign may have tarnished his legacy slightly with Reds fans, but the ex-captain is still among the best players to have played his position in the past 15 years or so.

19 Luka Modric (2008-2012)

Premier League clubs: Tottenham

Modric’s technical ability, vision, and passing range were standout features of his game during his time at Tottenham. While he didn’t win a Premier League title, his influence on matches and importance to Spurs was significant, helping the team consistently challenge for a top-four spot.

Tottenham surely regret letting the Croatian leave, considering he’s gone on to become one of the best midfielders of all time at Real Madrid, though his departure to one of Europe’s giants would have been inevitable in any case. Spurs fans wouldn’t have dreamed that Modric would go on to lift a Ballon d’Or when they were watching him run the show at White Hart Lane, but that’s exactly what he did. Had this list been based on the entire career of a player, Modric would be right among the top names.

18 Park Ji-Sung (2005-2014)

Premier League clubs: Manchester United, Queens Park Rangers

Park Ji-Sung’s time at Manchester United is a testament to the impact of hard work, tactical discipline, and selflessness. Though he was not the most flashy or technically gifted player, his tireless running, intelligent movement, and knack for scoring important goals made him a favourite of both fans and Sir Alex Ferguson.

The South Korean’s versatility allowed him to operate across the midfield, often tasked with marking some of the opposition’s key players out of the game. Park’s performances in big matches, especially in the Champions League, underline his value to the team. Despite often being under the radar compared to some of his more celebrated teammates, his contribution to United’s success, including four Premier League titles, was significant.

17 James Milner (2002-Present)

Premier League clubs: Leeds United, Newcastle, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Liverpool, Brighton

One of the only active players on this list, James Milner left Liverpool following the 2022-23 season to join an exciting Brighton project, having enjoyed a successful eight years on Merseyside. Milner’s career stands as a testament to his remarkable versatility and consistency. Having started as a winger, the veteran successfully adapted to various roles, including full-back and central midfield.

His tireless work rate, leadership, and technical skills were notable aspects of his game, and helped both Liverpool and Manchester City win Premier League titles while he was at the clubs. Despite often operating under the radar, Milner’s contribution to the teams he’s played for – both on and off the field – is simply beyond question.

16 Michael Carrick (1999-2018)

Premier League clubs: West Ham, Tottenham, Manchester United

An often unsung hero in a star-studded Manchester United team, Michael Carrick’s influence in the Premier League was profound. The Englishman was known for his vision, calmness under pressure, and excellent passing range. More than his technical abilities, it was his understanding of the game and positioning that made him stand out.

He was often the pivot around which United moved, breaking up opposition attacks and setting up his own team’s forward play. His role in helping United to five Premier League titles underlines the importance of his contribution. Carrick was adored by the United faithful as he was one of those players who would show up, put in a midfield masterclass, and then head home with minimal fuss. Leading by example, he would wear the armband for the Red Devils before his carer was out.

15 Paul Ince (1992-1995, 1997-2004)

Premier League clubs: Manchester United, Liverpool, Middlesbrough, Wolves

Paul Ince was a dynamic midfielder known for his tenacity, strength, and skill. He played a crucial role in Manchester United’s resurgence in the early 90s, forming a formidable partnership with Roy Keane. His combative style, blended with an ability to contribute goals, made him a key asset.

Ince later carried his Premier League experience to Liverpool, where his performances continued to showcase his qualities as a top-tier midfielder. The fact he was accepted by the Liverpool fan base after having played for their arch-rivals is a testament to the incredible professional Ince was. Spells at Middlesbrough and Wolves towards the end of his playing days were also solid, despite the unfamiliarity of playing for teams lower in the league.

14 Michael Essien (2005-2014)

Premier League clubs: Chelsea

Known as the “Bison,” Michael Essien was a powerhouse in Chelsea’s midfield, blending strength, energy, and technical skills in a balanced package. He was equally adept at thwarting opposition attacks as he was driving forward with the ball, with his versatility allowing him to operate in multiple roles.

Essien’s long-range goals were a testament to his technical prowess, with his stunning strike against Arsenal in 2006 standing as one of the Premier League’s greatest goals. The Blues’ icon played in an era where there were so many unbelievably talented central midfielders in the Premier League, and the fact that he stands out as one of the best shows just how relentless the Ghanaian was in the engine room for his side.

13 Claude Makelele (2003-2008)

Premier League clubs: Chelsea

The man who gave his name to a role in football, Claude Makelele was the epitome of the defensive midfield role. He played with a simplicity and discipline that provided a solid base for his more attacking teammates. The Frenchman’s work often went unnoticed but was vital in maintaining the balance of the team, breaking up opposition attacks, and protecting the defence.

Makelele’s importance became more apparent with time, and his role is now seen as crucial in any modern football team. He may not have the longevity of some of the names on this list as he only spent five years at Stamford Bridge, but the former France international had an impact on the club that could rival most, even the players above him.

12 David Beckham (1992-2003)

Premier League clubs: Manchester United

The man, the myth, the legend. David Beckham’s place in footballing history is very much secured, with the former Manchester United and Real Madrid star transcending everything that he achieved on the pitch. Given that Beckham the brand has taken the world by storm, it’s sometimes easy to forget just how good of a player he actually was. One of the finest crossers of a ball the game has ever seen, the ex-England winger’s combination of technique and accuracy made him one of the deadliest players at delivering a ball into the box.

Beckham won the Premier League six times, and was the scorer of some iconic goals in the competition’s history – not least his half-way line strike against Wimbledon in 1996. A falling out with Sir Alex Ferguson eventually led to a move away from the club and to join Real Madrid, but his performances in his time in the English top-flight is more than enough to secure him a much deserved place on this list.

11 Cesc Fàbregas (2003-2011, 2014-2019)

Premier League clubs: Arsenal, Chelsea

Cesc Fàbregas was a midfield maestro who controlled the tempo of games like few others. Beginning his Premier League journey with Arsenal, he quickly became the hub of their creative play, showcasing sublime passing, vision, and technical skills. Later, at Chelsea, the Spaniard continued to excel, contributing to their 2014-15 and 2016-17 Premier League triumphs.

Fabregas’s ability to dictate play and his knack for delivering pinpoint assists made him one of the finest playmakers the league has seen. He ranks among the players with the most assists in Premier League history, with only Ryan Giggs having registered more. The Welshman had the advantage of playing significantly more seasons in England than Fabregas.

10 N’Golo Kante (2015-2023)

Premier League clubs: Leicester City, Chelsea

N’Golo Kante’s meteoric rise from France’s lower leagues to Premier League stardom is a tale of hard work and extraordinary talent. Known for his tireless running and exceptional ball-winning ability, the hardworking midfielder was instrumental in Leicester City’s fairy-tale Premier League triumph in 2015-16.

His performances earned him a move to Chelsea, where he evolved into a more rounded midfielder without losing his defensive prowess, contributing significantly to their domestic and European successes. For the nominal fee he was brought to England for in 2015, the two clubs Kante represented got more than their money’s worth in the little Frenchman. Speculation is rife that the 33-year-old, who has been playing with Saudi Arabian side Al-Ittihad since 2023, will soon return to the Premier League.

9 Yaya Toure (2010-2018)

Premier League clubs: Manchester City

An instrumental figure in Manchester City’s rise to prominence in the Premier League, Yaya Toure was a force of nature in midfield. The Ivorian combined strength and stamina with remarkable technical skills and a keen eye for goal. His driving runs from midfield were a trademark feature of City’s attacking play, often leading to crucial goals, such as those in the 2014 title run-in.

Toure’s towering performances during the 2013-14 season, where he scored an impressive 20 league goals, underline his immense contribution to Manchester City’s history. Formerly an unwanted defender at Barcelona, the engine room powerhouse became a star as an all-action midfield player in the Premier League, with very few players capable of stopping him when he got into gear.

8 David Silva (2010-2020)

Premier League clubs: Manchester City

David Silva’s vision and creative skills brought an artistic flair to Manchester City’s midfield. The Spaniard was a crucial figure in City’s transformation into a Premier League powerhouse, winning four Premier League titles during his tenure. His ability to find pockets of space and thread incisive passes earned him the nickname “El Mago” (The Magician).

In fact, Silva is one of the finest passers of a ball in Premier League history, as the Spaniard could often pick out a colleague when no one else could see the pass was possible, even through the television screen or from the stands. He was a mesmerising player at his best and the conductor of Manchester City’s game, which improved greatly with Silva at the centre of it all.

7 Roy Keane (1992-2005)

Premier League clubs: Nottingham Forest, Manchester United

Few could match Roy Keane’s ferocity and passion on the football pitch. As Manchester United’s captain, Keane’s hard tackling, leadership, and intelligent play were instrumental in United’s dominance in the late 90s and early 2000s.

He embodied the spirit of Sir Alex Ferguson’s United, and his performances in the 1999 Treble-winning season, in particular, showcase his immense contributions. Many United fans will have him down as the club’s greatest ever captain, which goes to show the respect the Irishman earned over the years. Never allowing his teammates to fall below the standard, Keane often dragged his side through games, and even seasons.

6 Patrick Vieira (1996-2005, 2010-2011)

Premier League clubs: Arsenal, Manchester City

The embodiment of physical strength combined with technical skill, Patrick Vieira was the lynchpin in Arsenal’s midfield during their ‘Invincibles’ season. His leadership, defensive solidity, and box-to-box abilities made him an integral figure in Arsène Wenger’s system.

Vieira’s midfield duels with Manchester United’s Roy Keane still stand as some of the most memorable battles in Premier League history. These historic battles sometimes overshadow the technical prowess of the French midfielder, who was the heart and soul of Arsenal under Wenger during the late 1990s and early 2000s. There is an argument that the Gunners still haven’t fully replaced Vieira’s skill-set in midfield, almost two decades on from his departure.