Ranking the 9 Best Number 8s in World Football Right Now (2024)

The number eight shirt carries a special significance in football, often representing a team's central star who dominates the midfield, breaks up play, drives forward, and contributes in the final third. Some of the greatest players in history have proudly worn this number.

Today, several of the world's top talents don the iconic number eight for their clubs, serving as indispensable playmakers and high-energy engines in their teams' systems. A few are even contenders for the prestigious Ballon d'Or.

After ranking the world's best number nines, it's time to focus on the elite number eights. These players are tasked with consistently performing at the highest level, delivering in the biggest games, and controlling the tempo of matches.

Ranking Factors:

• Goal contributions: A threat in the final third is essential.
• All-round play: In the modern game, versatility and well-rounded abilities are crucial.
• Honours: Individual and team achievements will also factor into their rankings.

9. Leon Goretzka

Bayern Munich

Leon Goretzka may not be as highly regarded as he was a few years ago, but the powerful and dynamic German midfielder still earns his spot on this list. In the 2023/24 Bundesliga season, he made 30 appearances for Bayern Munich, contributing six goals and seven assists.

Known for his tireless work ethic, Goretzka excels at driving forward or tracking back with ease. Despite being placed on the transfer list during the summer window, no move materialized, and he has since been reintegrated into the first team. Whether he can rediscover his best form remains to be seen.

8. Mateo Kovacic

Manchester City

Mateo Kovacic might be one of the more underrated players in Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City, but he is always at the center of the action. The Croatian has enjoyed a stellar career, having played for three of Europe’s biggest clubs while winning the Champions League four times.

Now, with Rodri sidelined due to an ACL injury, Kovacic faces the challenge of filling a significant gap for City. There’s no doubt he can step up, as his well-rounded skill set rivals that of the best midfielders in the game. Trusted by Guardiola, Kovacic has seamlessly adapted to life as City’s number eight.

7. Enzo Fernandez

Chelsea

Enzo Fernández's start at Chelsea hasn't quite lived up to the hype. Signed for a Premier League record fee in January 2023 after shining for Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, the 23-year-old has struggled to fully deliver on his potential so far.

However, it's crucial to remember his age, and despite the inconsistencies, Fernández has shown flashes of brilliance. If manager Enzo Maresca can help him find consistency, those moments of class could turn into regular performances, and Chelsea could have one of the best midfielders in the world on their hands.

6. Dominik Szoboszlai

Liverpool

Dominik Szoboszlai, who arrived from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2023, has quickly become a key figure in Liverpool’s midfield. Known for his creativity, Szoboszlai often leaves the defensive duties to his teammates, but he has the ability to change the course of a game in an instant.

Though his first Premier League season yielded just five goal contributions in 33 matches, his calm control and composure in midfield haven't gone unnoticed. Wearing the iconic number eight shirt previously donned by club legend Steven Gerrard, Szoboszlai is certainly living up to the legacy.

5. Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United

Bruno Fernandes has the ability to make Manchester United "tick." While he may not consistently perform at his peak and doesn’t always embody the traditional qualities of a captain, his skill level places him among the top midfielders in world football. The former Sporting Lisbon player possesses all the attributes necessary for success.

Following in the footsteps of iconic figures like Wayne Rooney and Sir Bobby Charlton, who both wore the No. 8 shirt at Old Trafford, Fernandes has found inspiration. In 242 appearances for Manchester United, he has contributed 79 goals and 70 assists, consistently playing a pivotal role in the team’s performance.

4. Pedri

Barcelona

Despite being just 21, Pedri's career has been plagued by injuries, particularly recurring hamstring issues, which have limited his playing time. However, when fit, the young Spaniard consistently makes a significant impact on the pitch. Barcelona often rely on him as their primary creative force.

At the start of the 2024/25 season, Pedri has already contributed to three goals in eight La Liga matches. Yet, it is his subtle brilliance that truly sets him apart. Whether it’s a delicate flick, a perfectly timed through-ball, or a precise chip to cap off a play, Pedri approaches football with the finesse of an artist, turning the pitch into his canvas.

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3. Fabian Ruiz

Paris Saint-Germain

From one Spanish midfielder renowned for his elegance and skill on the ball to another known for his work rate, aggression, and dominance: Fabian Ruiz. While often recognized for his ability to break up play, Ruiz is equally vital to both Paris Saint-Germain and the Spanish national team.

At Euro 2024, he contributed to four goals, a testament to his commanding presence in midfield. In the new campaign for PSG, Ruiz has continued his world-class form, with Luis Enrique placing unwavering trust in him for every match, underscoring his importance to the team's success.

2. Martin Odegaard

Arsenal

Despite currently being sidelined by injury, Martin Odegaard remains one of the top number eights in world football. The Norwegian playmaker is the driving force behind Mikel Arteta's formidable Arsenal team, as the Gunners aim to end their 21-year wait for a Premier League title in 2025.

Odegaard serves as Arsenal’s primary creative engine, constantly looking to advance the ball swiftly into the attacking third. Last season, the 25-year-old contributed to 18 goals in the Premier League, with his poise and elegance on the ball making life difficult for even the best defenders.

1. Federico Valverde

Real Madrid

Federico Valverde has earned the distinction of being the best number eight in football today. The Uruguayan midfielder is a vital component of Carlo Ancelotti's tactical setup, effortlessly dominating matches in both La Liga and the Champions League.

As an aggressive player adept at breaking up opposition plays, Valverde is consistently at the center of the action. His partnership with Aurelien Tchouaméni has been instrumental to Real Madrid's success. The club has a rich history of legendary number eights, including Toni Kroos, yet the 26-year-old is proving himself worthy of wearing the prestigious shirt. Although he only took on the number at the beginning of the 2024/25 season, he is expected to hold it for the foreseeable future.