Saturday, February 15, 2025

10 Best CDM in the world football 2024/25

In the world of football, the role of the central defensive midfielder (CDM) is crucial for a team’s success. Often referred to as the “engine room,” the CDM is responsible for breaking up opposition attacks, protecting the defense, and distributing the ball effectively. This blog explores the qualities that define the best CDM in the world in 2025, highlighting key players who excel in this demanding position. From tactical intelligence to relentless work rate, discover what it takes to dominate the midfield and be recognized as the best in the game.

Best CDB in the World 2024/25

10. Joao Neves (Paris Saint-Germain)

  • Full name: JoĂŁo Pedro Gonçalves Neves
  • Date of birth: 27 September 2004 (age 20)
  • Place of birth: Tavira, Portugal
  • Height: 1.74 m (5 ft 9 in)
  • Number: 87

Clubs Played for:

Years Team
2022–2023 Benfica B
2022–2024 Benfica
2024– Paris Saint-Germain

JoĂŁo Neves, who ranks 10th on our list of the 10 best defensive midfielders in the world, had a breakthrough 2023/24 season with SL Benfica. Making 55 appearances and establishing himself as a key midfielder. His performances contributed to Benfica’s competitive campaigns across domestic and European competitions.

In August 2024, Neves transferred to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) on a five-year contract.

In the current 2024/25 season with PSG, Neves has continued to impress. As of January 2025, he has made 15 Ligue 1 appearances, totaling 1,093 minutes, and participated in six UEFA Champions League matches, accumulating 454 minutes.

 

9. Moises Caicedo (Chelsea)

  • Full name: MoisĂ©s Isaac Caicedo Corozo
  • Date of birth: 2 November 2001 (age 23)
  • Place of birth: Santo Domingo, Ecuador
  • Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)
  • Number: 25

Clubs Played for:

Years Team
2019–2021 Independiente del Valle
2021–2023 Brighton & Hove Albion
2021–2022 → Beerschot (loan)
2023– Chelsea

Moisés Caicedo joined Chelsea in the 2023/24 season after a record transfer from Brighton & Hove Albion. Despite his individual contributions, including 37 appearances with 1 goal and 1 assist, Chelsea struggled in the Premier League and did not secure a top-four finish. The team faced various challenges throughout the season, finishing mid-table.

In the current 2024/25 season, Caicedo has continued to be a crucial player for Chelsea, making 21 appearances so far, with 1 goal and 2 assists, as the team looks to improve on their previous season’s performance.

 

8. Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad)

  • Full name: MartĂ­n Zubimendi Ibáñez
  • Date of birth: 2 February 1999 (age 25)
  • Place of birth: San Sebastián, Spain
  • Height: 1.81 m (5 ft 11 in)
  • Number: 4

Clubs Played for:

Years Team
2016–2018 Real Sociedad C
2017–2020 Real Sociedad B
2019– Real Sociedad

Martin Zubimendi had an impressive 2023/24 season with Real Sociedad, making 34 appearances and contributing 2 goals and 1 assist. His performances were crucial in helping the team secure a strong finish in La Liga and qualify for European competitions.

Additionally, Zubimendi was part of Spain’s national team that won Euro 2024, adding a significant trophy to his career.

In the current 2024/25 season, he has continued to excel, making 18 appearances with 2 goals and 1 assist, solidifying his role as a key player for Real Sociedad and maintaining their competitive edge in La Liga.

 

7. Hakan Calhanoglu (Inter Milan)

  • Full name: Hakan ÇalhanoÄźlu
  • Date of birth: 8 February 1994 (age 30)
  • Place of birth: Mannheim, Germany
  • Height: 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in)
  • Number: 20

Clubs Played for:

Years Team
2011–2013 Karlsruher SC
2013–2014 Hamburger SV
2014–2017 Bayer Leverkusen
2017–2021 AC Milan
2021– Inter Milan

Hakan ÇalhanoÄźlu had an outstanding 2023/24 season with Inter Milan, playing a pivotal role in their Serie A title triumph. He made 34 appearances, scoring 13 goals and providing 3 assists, including a perfect record from the penalty spot with 10 successful attempts. His exceptional performances earned him the accolade of Serie A’s Best Midfielder for the 2023/24 season.

In the current 2024/25 season, Çalhanoğlu has continued his impressive form. As of January 2025, he has made 13 appearances in Serie A, scoring 4 goals and providing 2 assists.

 

6. Granit Xhaka (Bayer Leverkusen)

  • Full name: Granit Xhaka
  • Date of birth: 27 September 1992 (age 32)
  • Place of birth: Basel, Switzerland
  • Height: 1.86 m (6 ft 1 in)
  • Number: 34

Clubs Played for:

Years Team
2010–2012 FC Basel
2012–2016 Borussia Mönchengladbach
2016–2023 Arsenal
2023– Bayer Leverkusen

Granit Xhaka, 6th on our list of the best CDMs in the world, had a great 2023/24 season with Bayer Leverkusen. He played a pivotal role in their Bundesliga title win. He made 34 appearances, contributing 3 goals and 6 assists, helping the team secure the league title. His leadership and experience were crucial in their triumph. Additionally, Xhaka played a key role in their strong performances in the UEFA Europa League.

In the current 2024/25 season, he has continued to shine, making 18 appearances so far, with 2 assists, and remains an essential part of Bayer Leverkusen’s midfield as they challenge for top honors again.

 

5. Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid)

  • Full name: AurĂ©lien Djani TchouamĂ©ni
  • Date of birth: 27 January 2000 (age 24)
  • Place of birth: Rouen, France
  • Height: 1.88 m (6 ft 2 in)
  • Number: 14

Clubs Played for:

Years Team
2017–2018 Bordeaux II
2018–2020 Bordeaux
2020–2022 Monaco
2022– Real Madrid

AurĂ©lien TchouamĂ©ni has been a pivotal figure for Real Madrid and the French national team in recent seasons. In the 2023/24 season, he played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s La Liga and UEFA Champions League victories, contributing to their domestic and international successes. His performances were instrumental in securing the La Liga title and the Champions League trophy.

In the current 2024/25 season, Tchouaméni has continued to showcase his versatility and skill. As of January 2025, he has made 15 appearances in La Liga, accumulating 1,274 minutes on the field. While he has yet to score, he has provided 1 assist

 

4. Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)

  • Full name: Joshua Walter Kimmich
  • Date of birth: 8 February 1995 (age 29)
  • Place of birth: Rottweil, Germany
  • Height: 1.77 m (5 ft 10 in)
  • Number: 6

Clubs Played for:

Years Team
2013–2015 RB Leipzig
2015– Bayern Munich

Internationally, Kimmich has been a vital component of the German national team since 2016, earning 97 caps and scoring 7 goals. His leadership qualities were recognized when he was appointed captain in 2023.

Throughout his career, Kimmich has garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Bundesliga titles, DFB-Pokal victories, and the UEFA Champions League trophy. His exceptional performances have solidified his reputation as one of the premier midfielders in global football.

 

3. Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle United)

Full name: Bruno GuimarĂŁes Rodrigues Moura
Date of birth: 16 November 1997 (age 27)
Place of birth: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Height: 1.82 m (6 ft 0 in)
Number: 39

Clubs Played for:

Years Team
2015–2018 Audax
2017–2018 → Athletico Paranaense (loan)
2018–2020 Athletico Paranaense
2020–2022 Lyon
2022– Newcastle United
Bruno GuimarĂŁes has been a pivotal figure for Newcastle United and the Brazil national team in recent seasons. In the 2023/24 Premier League season, he made 37 appearances, contributing 7 goals and 7 assists.
In the 2024/25 season, GuimarĂŁes has maintained his form, with 32 appearances and 1 goal along with 9 assists by January 2025. He has been central to Newcastle’s midfield, helping propel the club’s competitive position in the Premier League. Additionally, he has been an important part of Brazil’s national team in international competitions.

2. Declan Rice (Arsenal)

  • Full name: Declan Rice
  • Date of birth: 14 January 1999 (age 26)
  • Place of birth: Kingston upon Thames, Greater London, England
  • Height: 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)
  • Number: 41

Clubs Played for:

Years Team
2015–2023 West Ham United
2023– Arsenal

Declan Rice has been a pivotal figure for both Arsenal and the England national team in recent seasons. In the 2023/24 Premier League season, he made 38 appearances for Arsenal, contributing 7 goals and 8 assists, showcasing his versatility and influence in midfield. His exceptional performances earned him a spot in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year for the 2023/24 season.

In the 2024/25 season, Rice has continued to excel. As of January 2025, he has played 31 matches, accumulating 2,396 minutes on the field, and has contributed 4 goals and 6 assists.

Internationally, Rice has been a key player for England, notably anchoring their midfield during Euro 2024, where he was crucial to their progression to the final.

 

1. Rodri (Manchester City)

  • Full name: Rodrigo Hernández Cascante
  • Date of birth: 22 June 1996 (age 28)
  • Place of birth: Madrid, Spain
  • Height: 1.90 m (6 ft 3 in)
  • Number: 16

Clubs Played for:

Years Team
2015–2016 Villarreal B
2015–2018 Villarreal
2018–2019 Atlético Madrid
2019– Manchester City

Rodri Hernández had an outstanding 2023/24 season, playing a key role in Manchester City’s Premier League title win and their UEFA Super Cup victory. He also contributed to Spain’s UEFA Nations League triumph. His excellent performances earned him the Ballon d’Or in October 2024, marking him as the world’s top footballer.

However, his 2024/25 season has been impacted by a significant knee injury, including an ACL tear, which has ruled him out for the rest of the campaign. Despite this setback, his 2023/24 achievements cemented his place among the world’s best midfielders.

Also Read:

Best Midfielders in the World Football

10 Best Centre Backs in the World

 

 

Ajay
Ajayhttps://footballfanstand.com
My name is Ajay Kumbhar, a dedicated football enthusiast. We wanted to develop a platform where football fans could meet and indulge their passion in the sport. Football Fan Stand is the place to go if you're a die-hard team supporter, a football enthusiast, or just someone who likes to remain current on all things football.

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