Best CDB in the World 2024/25
10. Joao Neves (Paris Saint-Germain)
- Full name: João 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)
Clubs Played for:
Years | Team |
---|---|
2019–2021 | Independiente del Valle |
2021–2023 | Brighton & Hove Albion |
2021–2022 | → Beerschot (loan) |
2023– | Chelsea |
8. Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad)
Clubs Played for:
Years | Team |
---|---|
2016–2018 | Real Sociedad C |
2017–2020 | Real Sociedad B |
2019– | Real Sociedad |
7. Hakan Calhanoglu (Inter Milan)
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)
5. Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid)
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)
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)
2. Declan Rice (Arsenal)
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)
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