In a football world reigned by forwards, the most unappreciated presence on the pitch is probably of a midfielder. A player playing on the aforementioned position has the most pivotal role during a match, controlling the entire game from the core of the pitch. These players need to be on top of their game for almost the entire football for any lapse in concentration is brutally punished. Lets take a look a the top three players who enact this role to perfection in the modern game.
Toni Kross
It goes without saying that the most sensational shock of the World Cup was the premature departure of the defending champions – Germany – from the group stage itself.
And one player who was particularly underwhelming for Die Mannschaft was the Real Madrid superstar – Toni Kroos. In the entirety of the tournament, the German was a watered-down adaptation of his former self as he failed to live up to his billing.
Nevertheless, he has still made the cut for the list by reason of a stellar season with Real Madrid where he was an instrumental figure in the club’s road to three Champions League titles in a row, the first in history.
The 28-year-old is the driving force of Los Blancos in tandem with Luka Modric, courtesy of his inch-perfect passes, mental composure and tactical intelligence that has cemented his position at Santiago Bernabeu.
Sergio Busquets
undoubtedly the best defensive midfielder in the football world for a long time now, Sergio Busquets is the linchpin of Barcelona’s midfield.
Just like any other midfielder, his crucial role in Barcelona’s domestic campaign last season remained largely unacknowledged as La Blaugrana went on to clinch the La Liga and Copa Del Rey. In the Primera Divison, Busquets created 20 chances and three assists. He also completed 1650 passes with a pass accuracy of 90%, of which 76% were forward passes.
Christian Eriksen
Currently being pursued by FC Barcelona post the momentous departures of Andres Iniesta and Paulinho from the club.And if the deal is materialized, it could easily break the £100 million barrier in the light of Eriksen’s magnetic stature in the transfer market.
The 26-year-old possesses a penchant for cutting inside and playing long balls for his team-mates, an ability he excels at, allowing him to build up play from the back without much difficulty. His ability with both feet is exceptional and he has a monster of a shot on him too
Consequently, his amazing vision, decent passing, and intelligent movement has made him an in-demand midfielder, with his market value experiencing a significant acclivity.
Ngolo Kante
Kante came onto the seen when he guided Leicester city to the most unexpected title trumps of all time before earning a move to Chelsea the next season where he again won the EPl title. With France he had an enjoyable time at the 2018 World Cup. The Frenchman was an omnipresent figure on the pitch, helping the rearguard ward off the challenges peppered at them. In the modern game, Kante is one of the most diligent midfielders with a work rate that is almost incomparable. Though shy off the pitch Kante is never shy in making challenges and would definitely not be shy to make a move to Barcelona who are said to looking to price him from Chelsea.
Paul Pogba
the Frenchman has merchandised himself as probably the most promising talent across Europe. Only 25 years old, Paul Pogba is at the peak of his powers and has just won the World Cup, which has seen his market value soar exponentially.
Despite finding himself in the firing line in his first season at The Old Trafford, Pogba has remained in favour with Jose Mourinho, who has continued to place him in the starting XI. His passing ability and confident with the ball matched with immense pace and power make Pogba a gem any team would be lucky to have in their ranks.