The heartbeat of any great football team lies in its midfield – a position where games are won, strategies are executed, and magic happens.
Whether it’s a holding midfielder who can shut down the opposition attack, a box-to-box player who can do both sides well effectively, or an attacking one who can chip in with goals and assists, they are usually the key to how a match pans out.
From commanding defensive enforcers to visionary playmakers, these players have become indispensable to their clubs and national teams
With that in mind, FOOTBALLEFFECT has ranked the 10 best African midfielders in the world currently, and the level of talent is off the scale.
1. Andre-Frank Zambo Anguissa (Cameroon)
Anchoring Napoli’s midfield, Anguissa continues to shine with his robust physical presence and immaculate ball control.
Known for his ability to break up play and launch counter-attacks, Anguissa has been instrumental in Napoli’s pursuit of glory in both domestic and European competitions.
Zambo Anguissa is a joy to watch whenever he’s on the pitch. The 28-year-old has accrued over forty caps for Cameroon, scoring five times.
His vision and passing accuracy make him a key player in dictating the tempo of the game, often acting as the heartbeat of his team.
2. Amadou Onana (Senegal)
Onana’s rise to prominence has been nothing short of meteoric.
At just 22, the Everton midfielder combines youthful exuberance with a mature understanding of the game. Onana’s towering presence in the middle of the park is complemented by his aerial prowess and his ability to make driving runs forward.
His defensive contributions and knack for major interceptions have made him a standout performer in the Premier League.
3. Pape Matar Sarr (Senegal)
Tottenham Hotspur’s Sarr is another young sensation making waves in 2024.
His versatility allows him to play both as a deep-lying playmaker and an advanced attacking midfielder.
Sarr’s technique and agility enable him to weave through tight defenses, while his sharp eye for goal and ability to deliver key passes have cemented his place in the Spurs lineup.
His performances have earned him comparisons to some of the game’s greats.
4. Thomas Partey (Ghana)
Partey remains a stalwart in Arsenal’s midfield.
His imposing physicality, combined with a keen tactical mind, allows him to dominate the central areas of the pitch.
Partey’s defensive capabilities, including timely tackles and interceptions, are matched by his ability to drive the ball forward and initiate attacks.
In 2024, Partey’s leadership and consistency continue to be pivotal for both club and country.
5. Amadou Haidara (Mali)
RB Leipzig’s midfielder has been a revelation in the Bundesliga.
Known for his relentless work rate and energy, Haidara is a box-to-box midfielder who excels at both ends of the pitch.
His dynamic style of play, coupled with his ability to score and assist, makes him a crucial asset for his team. Haidara’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with many top European clubs monitoring his progress closely.
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6. Ismaël Bennacer (Algeria)
AC Milan’s Bennacer is the epitome of elegance in midfield.
His exceptional dribbling skills and precise passing make him a joy to watch. Bennacer’s intelligence in reading the game allows him to control the tempo, making crucial interceptions and distributing the ball with finesse.
His ability to link defense and attack seamlessly has been a key factor in Milan’s resurgence in recent years.
7. Alex Iwobi (Nigeria)
Iwobi has found a new lease of life at Fulham.
His versatility allows him to operate effectively as a central midfielder or on the wings. Iwobi’s creativity and flair are evident in his dribbling and passing, often unlocking defenses with his vision.
His work rate and willingness to track back also add a defensive solidity to his game, making him a well-rounded midfielder who contributes significantly to his team’s success.
8. Abdoulaye Doucoure (Mali)
Abdoulaye Doucoure’s performances for Everton have been nothing short of spectacular.
His physicality and stamina allow him to cover every blade of grass, making him a formidable presence in midfield.
Doucoure’s ability to break up play and surge forward with the ball has been crucial for Everton, often acting as the link between defense and attack. His leadership on the pitch is evident, guiding younger players and leading by example.
9. Yves Bissouma (Mali)
Tottenham Hotspur’s star is a midfield dynamo known for his tenacity and ball-winning skills.
Bissouma’s exceptional ability to read the game and make crucial tackles has made him a key player in the Premier League.
His composure on the ball and accurate passing enable him to transition play effectively, while his occasional bursts forward add an attacking dimension to his game.
Bissouma’s consistency and resilience have made him a fan favorite.
10. Seko Fofana (Ivory Coast)
Seko Fofana, playing for RC Lens on loan to Al-Ettifaq, has been a standout performer.
His powerful runs and ability to drive the ball forward have made him a constant threat to opposition defenses. Fofana’s technical skills, combined with his physicality, make him a complete midfielder.
His leadership qualities are evident, often wearing the captain’s armband and inspiring his teammates with his performances. Fofana’s ability to score crucial goals adds another layer to his impressive skill set.
Other Notable African Midfielders
- Ibrahim Sangare
- Wilfred Ndidi
- Ellyes Skhiri
- Ali Musrati
- Idrissa Gueye
- Geoffrey Kondogbia
- Franck Kessie
- Ismaila Sarr
- Mohamed Camara
