The Premier League is proving to be the most competitive and entertaining league in the world once again. It has been home to some of the best midfield talents over the years, who have displayed their artistry, skills, originality, and authority on the pitch.
Midfielders are important players in the game since they are in charge of directing the flow of the game, creating chances, regaining possession, and protecting the backline. Without the presence of quality midfielders, a team's performance on the pitch might suffer greatly.
1. Douglas Luiz
Douglas Luiz has established himself as a consistent Premier League midfielder in recent years. He has impressed under Unai Emery and is an important part of Aston Villa's system. The Brazilian midfielder has been superb for Aston Villa, who are presently fifth in the table.
Luiz, 25, has been more prolific this season, recording five goals and an assist in 12 games. The ability of the South American to manage the midfield, break up opposing attempts, and launch counter-attacks makes him a key weapon for Emery's team. Overall, he has been a major contributor to Villa's strong start to the 2023/24 season.
2. Yves Bissouma
Yves Bissouma has been one of Ange Postecoglou's star performers in the first three months of his Tottenham tenure, after failing to establish himself as a regular under Antonio Conte following his arrival from Brighton last summer. He has been at the core of Tottenham's resurgence as a top-four contender, with Ange Postecoglou's new brand of attractive, dynamic, and free-flowing football seemingly bringing out the best in the defensive midfielder.
The Mali international is a dominant presence in the heart of the pitch, always looking to win the ball and create opportunities for the Tottenham forwards.
3. Declan Rice
Despite being a world-class defensive midfielder, Declan Rice has often been used as Arsenal's No.8 this season, and he has not disappoint. In fact, having a defensive presence behind him has empowered the England international to play more creatively and approach the opposition box.
Rice, 25, has only two Premier League goals and an assist this season, but his serenity in possession, defensive tenacity, and ability to drive forward with the ball have made the Gunners a much better team. Mikel Arteta's decision to play him in No.8 role has been a crucial improvement in Arsenal's ability to manage games better than last season.
4. Rodri
Rodri has been the Premier League's greatest defensive midfielder in recent years, and he was instrumental in Man City's treble success in 2022/23, scoring the game-winning goal in the Champions League final against Inter Milan in May. He is a dynamic midfielder with outstanding technical abilities and physical strength.
Man City are a significantly better team when Rodri is on the field, as proven by the fact that they have lost two of the three games this season that he has missed due to suspension. The 27-year-old is still one of Guardiola's first choices on the teamsheet and has been their greatest performer this season alongside Julian Alvarez.
5. James Maddison
James Maddison joined Tottenham this summer in a £40 million deal from Leicester City, and he has made that fee appear like a steal with his eye-catching performances. This season, he has been one of the club's most consistent performers, scoring three goals and providing five assists in 11 Premier League appearances.
The England international, 26, has rapidly established himself as Spurs' creative hub, and it is no surprise that he is the division's joint third-highest assist provider. However, an ankle injury sustained in Tottenham's 4-1 loss to Chelsea will keep him out until the New Year, along with Micky van de Ven, dealing Postecoglou a double blow.