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#3 Leon Goretzka
Leon Groetzka has established himself as one of the best midfielders in world football right now, featuring as a regular starter in Bayern Munich’s star-studded XI.
The 26-year-old has been heavily linked with Manchester United in the ongoing summer transfer window, and it is no surprise that top European clubs are keen on Goretzka’s signature.
The German is technically gifted and tactically astute, making him one of the most complete midfielders in the world game. Goretzka was hugely impressive during his five-year spell at Schalke, and has only grown from strength to strength since his move to Bayern Munich in 2018.
The prolific midfielder has already notched up 115 appearances in his relatively young Bayern Munich career. Goretzka has registered a direct involvement in 51 goals (25 goals, 26 assists), averaging a goal contribution every 2.25 games.
Goretzka most memorably played a pivotal role in the club’s 2019-20 Champions League triumph, where he formed a formidable midfield partnership with Joshua Kimmich.
#2 IIkay Gundogan
Another German international on our list is IIkay Gundogan, who has evolved into one of the premier goalscoring midfielders in the Premier League.
The 30-year-old endured a torrid time with recurring injuries in the early stages of his Manchester City career, but displayed glimpses of wizardry and brilliance in his limited time on the pitch.
However, over the past few seasons, Gundogan has effectively become injury-free, and with more minutes under his belt, the German has grown in confidence. Gundogan showcased some of his best football last season as he controlled and dictated play from the middle of the park.
The German is an excellent reader of the game, and is always aware of the right moments to surge forward. Gundogan enjoyed one of his best goalscoring seasons in the 2020-21 campaign, finding the back of the net 17 times in 46 appearances. He provided five assists, and also functioned as the defensive cover in Manchester City’s fluid system.
#1 Paul Pogba
The Frenchman is off to a flying start in the 2021-22 campaign, with five assists in his first two league appearances of the season.
At his peak, there is no better box-to-box midfielder than Paul Pogba, as he can single-handedly dominate the midfield battle. The Manchester United man is tactically astute, and one of the most physically formidable footballers on the continent.
Pogba has the ability to win the ball back from the opponents, and also possesses the raw pace and drive to carry the ball into the final third.
At the same time, the 28-year-old is blessed with an immense passing range and has the vision to pick out his teammates in dangerous positions. The FIFA World Cup winner also has a good eye for goal, with a contribution of 88 goals (38 goals, 50 assists) during his second spell at Old Trafford.
Many would rightly argue that Pogba has not lived up to the lofty €105 million price tag, but at this moment, the Frenchman looks like a million bucks.
