Top 20 Premier League Midfielders in 2026

The Premier League has a rich history of producing outstanding midfielders such as Patrick Vieira, Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Roy Keane, and Paul Scholes. Those legends have long retired, making way for a fresh wave of talent dominating the English top flight today. Selecting the finest midfielders now competing is no simple task, considering the range of roles from defensive anchors to creative playmakers.

This list reflects our view based on several factors:

• Performance during the 2024/25 season
• Standing among current Premier League midfielders
• Injury history and time missed
• Impact on their teams' results with or without them
• Individual and team success at their clubs

20. Tijjani Reijnders - Manchester City

Signed from AC Milan for £46 million, Tijjani Reijnders quickly impressed Pep Guardiola’s side by scoring on his debut against Wolves and showing excellent timing inside the box. His ability with the ball and knack for arriving at key moments have placed him among the division’s best.

• Games: 26
• Goals: 5
• Assists: 2

19. Alexis Mac Allister - Liverpool

Since joining Liverpool from Brighton, Mac Allister adapted well even when played in an unfamiliar defensive midfield role. Although his form dipped in 2025/26 alongside Liverpool's struggles, his prior performances and World Cup-winning pedigree indicate he will bounce back.

• Games: 33
• Goals: 2
• Assists: 4

18. Adam Wharton - Crystal Palace

Adam Wharton is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after young midfielders in England. Since moving from Blackburn Rovers, the 22-year-old's intelligence and confidence have shone through, making him a potential future World Cup participant and a player who could command a huge transfer fee.

• Games: 29
• Goals: 0
• Assists: 5

17. Casemiro - Manchester United

Approaching the end of his contract, Casemiro has expressed a desire to leave Old Trafford this summer. Despite his age, he continues to deliver big moments, recently scoring nine league goals—a personal best—showing he still has much to offer.

• Games: 32
• Goals: 9
• Assists: 2

16. Phil Foden - Manchester City

Phil Foden's 2023/24 campaign earned him the Premier League Player of the Season after scoring 27 goals. Injuries hampered him last season, but he’s been improving this year and remains one of the league’s brightest talents at just 25.

• Games: 28
• Goals: 7
• Assists: 3

15. Florian Wirtz - Liverpool

With a hefty £116 million price tag, Wirtz has faced pressure to perform consistently. Though he has struggled in some big games, his talent is undeniable. He excelled in Germany, winning back-to-back Bundesliga Player of the Season awards before joining Liverpool.

• Games: 30
• Goals: 5
• Assists: 4

14. Enzo Fernandez - Chelsea

Chelsea broke British transfer records to sign Enzo Fernandez from Benfica in 2023. The Argentine has become a key figure, known for his late runs into attacking areas and linking the midfield with the forwards.

• Games: 32
• Goals: 8
• Assists: 3

13. Sandro Tonali - Newcastle United

After overcoming a betting scandal and ban, Tonali returned stronger than ever, playing a pivotal role in Newcastle's success last season and their return to the Champions League. Positioned centrally, he continues to contribute both defensively and offensively.

• Games: 32
• Goals: 0
• Assists: 2

12. Martin Odegaard - Arsenal

Once doubted, Odegaard has emerged as Arsenal's captain and creative leader. Although injuries have limited his appearances this season, his influence on the team's rise over the past few years remains clear.

• Games: 22
• Goals: 1
• Assists: 6

11. Granit Xhaka - Sunderland

After leaving Arsenal, Xhaka has revitalized his career at Sunderland, captaining the team and driving them to significant victories. At 33, he remains the heartbeat of the squad and arguably Sunderland's best signing this season.

• Games: 30
• Goals: 1
• Assists: 5