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Central midfielders are a valuable asset for on any team. They are responsible for starting an attack, sitting back and helping the defenders as well as dictating the team's play.
Most times, games are won or lost in the midfield battles between both teams. Hence the midfield is an important component of the teams vying to win the World Cup.
A good central midfielder should have great vision, pace, be a dead ball specialist, be adept at shooting from distance and be equipped to be the fulcrum of the entire midfield.
In the past we have seen central midfielders like Zico, Zidane and Pirlo winning the World Cup for their teams with their world class performances in the centre of midfield.
More than scoring goals, the job of a central midfield player is to provide pin-point accurate assists for strikers to score the goals.
Most of the teams in the 2018 FIFA World Cup have got brilliant central midfielders in their ranks.
They will certainly play a crucial role in determining the success of their teams at the World Cup. Let us look at 4 central midfielders who are bound to make an impact for their teams in Russia.
#4 Fred
Fred is a talented youngster to watch out for at the World Cup. He has got excellent ball control, good passing ability, and has the vision to deliver the perfect ball for the attackers.
He's also adept at tackling, dribbling, has abundant stamina, possesses a tactically sound mind and has had quite a successful season for Shakhtar Donetsk.
Manchester United recently signed Fred for £52 million in this transfer window. Having made just 8 appearances for the Brazilian senior team so far, he has adapted quite well to their style of play.
He will be responsible for dictating the midfield play in Brazil's favour at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. His experience will be put to test in Russia.
All stats via transfermarkt
#3 Luka Modric
Luka Modric is unarguably one of the best midfielders at this year's World Cup. He's shrewd, has got pace, he's an excellent dribbler and a great distributor of the ball.
He is also an amazing tackler, has the capability to shoot from long range and has the vision to pick out the perfect pass.
Modric's influence has played a key role in Real Madrid winning the UEFA Champions League title in three successive years. Having represented Croatia in 102 matches and scored 12 goals for them, Modric is the man to watch for Croatia.
His partnership with Rakitic in the midfield is probably the best in comparison to other teams in Russia. Modric's hard work and determination will go a long way to determine Croatia's success at the World Cup.
#2 Andres Iniesta
Iniesta is a legend for both Spain and Barcelona. Although being the most experienced midfielder at this year's World Cup, Iniesta still has got the legs to gallop ahead during the team's attack and track back to help in defense.
Being gifted with an amazing vision, he is extremely good at keeping possession, has got excellent feet and has the ability to shoot from long range.
Iniesta is a committed player who will give his best for the team day in and day out. Having represented Spain in 130 matches and scored 13 goals, he is the key man for Spain at the World Cup.
He was part of the golden period in Spain's football history when they won consecutive Euros in 2008 and 2012 as well as the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
His extra time goal in the 2010 final enabled Spain beat The Netherlands and lift the trophy. Iniesta's experience will be crucial for La Roja.
#1 Toni Kroos
Toni Kroos is at present probably the best central midfielder in the world. Being blessed with pinpoint accurate passing ability, Kroos also has the vision to provide the perfect pass to split any opposition defense.
He has the ability to shoot from distance, and is adept at breaking the opposition attack. He played a vital role in Real Madrid's three successive UCL title victories.
Having played for Germany in 82 matches and scored 12 goals, Kroos was a vital player in Germany's success at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
He played key role in the 1-7 demolition of Brazil during the semi-final of the World Cup in 2014. He will be a crucial player for Germany if they are to defend their World Cup crown successfully.
