Football: 5 best mid-fielders in the world
What's the story
Mid-fielders played a commanding role at the recently concluded FIFA World Cup 2018 with Croatia's Luka Modric winning the Golden Ball award. Probably the most crucial position on the football pitch, mid-field is an art on its own. As we gear up for the 2018-19 European club season, here are 5 best mid-fielders across Europe.
Ace
Kevin De Bruyne- Manchester City
Kevin De Bruyne has gone on to become the most versatile mid-fielder in recent times. He is every manager's delight. Pep Guardiola transformed him into a central mid-fielder against the usual number 10 position. De Bruyne hasn't looked back since then. He made 16 assists and scored 8 goals in the title winning EPL campaign. He was sublime at the 2018 World Cup too.
Dominance
Paul Pogba- Manchester United
Despite not quite hitting gear in the 2017-18 campaign, Pogba grew in stature at the recently concluded World Cup in Russia. He was one of the most influential players for the World Cup winning French side. He scored a fantastic goal in the final against Croatia. The Manchester United star will be buzzing with confidence ahead of the new season.
Tempo
N'Golo Kante- Chelsea
N'Golo Kante is the best defensive mid-fielder in the world at the moment. With an enormous bundle of energy, the Chelsea player is excellent at making tackles. He is known for ball retentions and dictates the play in the central area. His influence was massive for France in the World Cup as well. He made 113 tackles, for Chelsea, in EPL last season.
Grit
Toni Kroos- Real Madrid
The German international has been excellent for Real Madrid and has formed a defining partnership with Casemiro and Luka Modric. He is solid as a rock and attentive while laying the groundwork and going forward. He managed 5 goals and 7 assists for Real in the 2017-18 season in the Spanish league. He was exceptional in the Champions League winning campaign.
The best
Luka Modric - Real Madrid
Luka Modric could soon land the Ballon d'Or. He deserves it. He had an amazing World Cup where he was by far the best mid-fielder. His Golden Ball win was a testament to it. The Real Madrid stalwart played a key role in helping his side win a third successive Champions League title. He scored twice in 43 overall appearances last season.