Who is the best midfielder in the Premier League 2023/24? Bruno and Odegaard battle for the top spot

In the 2023/24 season, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal once again missed the chance to win the title despite leading the league for most of the campaign, eventually being overtaken by Man City by two points. That season, Arsenal’s highlight came from their excellent midfield, with Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard standing out. In this article, soccerwayuk.com evaluates the 10 best midfielders in the Premier League 2023/24 season.

Top 10 best midfielders in the Premier League 2023/24

The list is compiled based on the players’ contributions to their teams (goals & assists).

10. Conor Gallagher - Chelsea FC - 5 goals (7 assists)

The 2023/24 season saw Conor Gallagher deliver an explosive campaign, becoming one of Chelsea’s standout players. With Reece James and Ben Chilwell sidelined by injury, Gallagher often wore the captain’s armband and played in almost every Chelsea match. The English midfielder led the team, and ranked among the league’s best, in defensive statistics such as tackles, ball recoveries, and interceptions. He acted as the link between defense and attack, helping new signings like Caicedo integrate into the squad.

9. James Ward-Prowse - West Ham United FC - 7 goals (7 assists)

In his debut season with West Ham, James Ward-Prowse produced an impressive return, scoring 7 goals and providing 7 assists. With the arrival of the former Southampton midfielder, West Ham quickly became a major threat in aerial duels and set-piece situations. At the same time, he contributed significantly in defense, ranking among the players with the most distance covered per game, helping West Ham maintain balance between attack and defense.

8. Kevin De Bruyne - Manchester City FC - 4 goals (10 assists)

The 2023/24 season was extremely challenging for De Bruyne after he suffered a hamstring injury in the opening match. However, once he returned, the Belgian quickly proved his class by scoring 4 goals and providing 10 assists in just 18 matches toward the end of the season. De Bruyne’s timely comeback played a key role in Man City’s strong late run that secured their fourth consecutive Premier League title.

7. Douglas Luiz - Aston Villa FC - 9 goals (5 assists)

The 2023/24 season can be considered Douglas Luiz’s most impressive campaign, as he helped Aston Villa qualify for the Champions League. Under Unai Emery, Luiz was no longer limited to a simple central role. He moved intelligently and contributed in every phase of play. Together with Boubacar Kamara, he formed a highly effective midfield partnership. In addition to scoring goals, Luiz maintained consistent defensive performances, acting as a shield for Aston Villa’s back line. At the end of the season, he was named Aston Villa’s Player of the Season, voted by both fans and teammates.

6. Bernardo Silva - Manchester City FC - 6 goals (9 assists)

Unlike De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva maintained his form and was one of the players with the most appearances for Man City that season, featuring in 33 matches. Silva’s greatest strength was his versatility, as he could play in multiple positions and consistently influence games. That season, Silva frequently dropped deeper alongside Rodri to control the tempo. Not only did he feature regularly, but he was also among the league’s hardest-working players, averaging more than 11km per game. It is fair to say that Silva was a vital engine for Man City and helped ease Guardiola’s concerns during De Bruyne’s absence.

5. Declan Rice - Arsenal FC - 7 goals (8 assists)

Arsenal’s £105 million signing quickly proved his value by adapting seamlessly to the team, helping Arsenal become one of the strongest sides in the Premier League. Rice often played a decisive role in key victories, including matches against Manchester United (September 2023) and Luton (December 2023). In addition, he performed strongly in defensive duties, reducing the burden on players like Partey and Odegaard, and allowing Arsenal’s attack to become more unpredictable.

4. Bruno Guimarães - Newcastle United FC - 7 goals (8 assists)

The 2023/24 season was challenging for Newcastle due to numerous injuries, but Bruno Guimarães continued to show his growing influence. He featured in 37 of 38 matches, demonstrating impressive fitness and an all-around skill set in both attack and defense, while consistently creating chances for his teammates. Guimarães gradually established himself as a true leader, inspiring younger players and serving as Newcastle’s main source of hope in difficult moments.

3. Rodri - Manchester City FC - 8 goals (9 assists)

With Kevin De Bruyne sidelined for much of the season, Rodri emerged as one of the most important players in the Man City squad. The Spanish midfielder contributed significantly in both attack and defense, registering 8 goals and 9 assists. Among his decisive moments was a long-range goal against West Ham in round 38 that made it 3-1 and effectively ended Arsenal’s title hopes. His outstanding season, combined with a strong Euro campaign, helped him win the 2024 Ballon d’Or.

2. Bruno Fernandes - Man United - 10 goals (8 assists)

The 2023/24 season remained difficult for Man United under manager Erik ten Hag, but Bruno Fernandes continued to be one of the team’s best performers. The midfielder ranked among the league leaders in chances created and expected assists (xA), yet due to the team’s attacking struggles, he recorded only 8 assists. At the same time, the Man United captain showed great resilience, missing just two matches throughout the season and leading the team during a challenging campaign.

1. Martin Odegaard - Arsenal FC - 8 goals (10 assists)

Arsenal’s strong performance throughout the 2023/24 season was largely driven by captain Martin Odegaard, the team’s creative leader. He consistently led Arsenal’s high pressing while maintaining excellent creativity, ranking second in the league for chances created and leading in through passes. Although he could not guide Arsenal to the title, Odegaard confirmed his status as one of the Premier League’s most creative midfielders.

Soccerway UK has ranked the top 10 best midfielders in the Premier League 2023/24. These names reflect the author’s personal opinion and are for reference only. To see more football odds from around the world, please click on the link next to this text.