Top 20 Premier League Midfielders Right Now (2026)

The Premier League has always showcased some of the best midfield talents, with legends like Patrick Vieira, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Roy Keane, and Paul Scholes setting high standards since 1992. Though that era has passed, a fresh crop of stars now leads the charge in England's top division.

Being the world's premier league, it naturally attracts top midfielders from across the globe. Deciding who stands out among so many impressive players isn't simple. This list reflects our view, considering various factors such as their 2024/25 season form, overall status within the league, injury records, impact on team performances, and success both individually and collectively.

20. Tijjani Reijnders – Manchester City

After his £46 million move from AC Milan, Reijnders quickly proved his worth at Man City. The Dutch midfielder made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut against Wolves and showing strong performances early on, including a standout match versus Arsenal. His timing when entering the box is exceptional, coupled with neat ball control skills.

• Games: 26
• Goals: 5
• Assists: 2

19. Alexis Mac Allister – Liverpool

Since joining Liverpool from Brighton, Mac Allister has adapted to playing deeper in midfield, often in a defensive role unlike his previous creative duties. Despite a slight dip in form during 2025/26 alongside a struggling Liverpool side, the World Cup winner has shown over time that he can regain top performance levels.

• Games: 33
• Goals: 2
• Assists: 4

18. Adam Wharton – Crystal Palace

Wharton is on track to become one of the Premier League's most valuable midfielders. Since arriving from Blackburn Rovers, his maturity and confidence have stood out at Selhurst Park. Though recent performances have plateaued somewhat, his progress continues to draw attention from England’s biggest clubs and possibly the upcoming World Cup squad.

• Games: 29
• Goals: 0
• Assists: 5

17. Casemiro – Manchester United

The veteran Brazilian looks set to leave Old Trafford after his contract ends this summer, but his recent form suggests he could stay longer. Scoring nine league goals this season, more than in his previous three combined, Casemiro remains a player for key moments, proving he still has plenty to offer.

• Games: 32
• Goals: 9
• Assists: 2

16. Phil Foden – Manchester City

Foden’s 2023/24 season was exceptional, earning him Premier League Player of the Season after 27 goals and 12 assists. At just 25, he's already a club legend with six league titles. Though injuries limited his impact last season, he’s improving again and remains one of the league’s elite talents when fit.

• Games: 28
• Goals: 7
• Assists: 3

15. Florian Wirtz – Liverpool

Wirtz has faced challenges living up to his £116 million price tag, occasionally disappearing in big matches. Yet his talent is undeniable. Before joining Liverpool, he won consecutive Bundesliga Player of the Season awards and produced impressive stats at Bayer Leverkusen. Recently, he has been one of Liverpool’s better performers and needs to maintain that level.

• Games: 30
• Goals: 5
• Assists: 4

14. Enzo Fernandez – Chelsea

Fernandez’s £106 million transfer from Benfica was a record at the time, but patience has paid off. He excels at making late runs into the box, connecting the midfield engine with attacking players. His role is crucial to Chelsea’s style, even if he ranks lower here due to the exceptional depth of talent around the league.

• Games: 32
• Goals: 8
• Assists: 3

13. Sandro Tonali – Newcastle United

Despite facing a betting scandal and ban, Tonali bounced back strongly, delivering his best performances yet at Newcastle. He was key in their Carabao Cup win and Champions League qualification. Eddie Howe’s use of him as a pivot has improved the team's dynamics, and he continues to contribute assists across competitions.

• Games: 32
• Goals: 0
• Assists: 2

12. Martin Odegaard – Arsenal

Odegaard once seemed to struggle fulfilling his early promise but found his stride after loan spells. Now Arsenal’s captain after four years, he’s been central to their rise as a dominant Premier League side. Despite injuries limiting his appearances this season, his quality remains unquestioned.

• Games: 22
• Goals: 1
• Assists: 6

11. Granit Xhaka – Sunderland

Xhaka’s departure from Arsenal might have seemed wise then, but his impact at Sunderland has been impressive. Returning to the Premier League with the promoted Black Cats, he captains the side and drives important victories. At 33, he remains the team’s core and arguably their best signing this season.

• Games: 30
• Goals: 1
• Assists: 5