Who is currently the best midfielder in the Premier League?

So who is the best?

According to the Independent, Rice ranks second in the Premier League for distance carried with the ball, just behind Elliot Anderson of Nottingham Forest. Additionally, he has created many other threats over the past 12 months, such as his timing for off-ball runs into the box and delivering free kicks that set up teammates to score. Like Caicedo’s defensive prowess, Rice leads central midfielders who have played 700 minutes this season in expected assists (over 2.1).

It should be noted that many notable Premier League players were not considered in this debate. Rodri has barely played but will surely be mentioned again. Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister missed several matches and thus lack sufficient minutes, although both played vital roles in Liverpool’s title. Dominik Szoboszlai also has impressive stats, and Liverpool performs better when he plays midfield rather than temporarily at right back.

Other players deserve consideration in the discussion about the Premier League’s best midfielder. Bruno Fernandes has played deeper this season but still attempts high-risk passes, generating most of Manchester United’s attacks (1.31 expected assists, second among central midfielders this season). Combined with a high number of ball recoveries (61, tied for second), Fernandes’ overall performance is excellent, despite occasional defensive errors.

Also notable is Elliot Anderson, shining for Nottingham Forest. Thomas Tuchel did not hesitate to give this player England’s number 6 shirt earlier this year before the 2026 World Cup. Anderson’s stats are remarkable, leading central midfielders in ball carries into the box (121) and topping midfielders in ball recoveries (84).

Rice is undoubtedly the most complete midfielder, but Caicedo might edge him slightly due to his enormous number of ball recoveries and tackles; no player in Europe’s top five leagues has more tackles and interceptions. Caicedo breaks up attacks and also initiates them, as his interventions often trigger Chelsea’s offensive moves, catching opponents off guard when they think they control the game.

The 24-year-old has also started contributing goals for the team, like Rodri and Rice, with 4 goals this season (including goals and assists). The tackle-turned-assist against Tottenham might be the most "Caicedo-like" moment of the season.

Of course, they have different roles in different teams. The simplest conclusion is that the best Premier League midfielder would be an ideal combination: Caicedo holding the ball, Rice driving forward, and Fernandes creating chances. And there is Anderson, who can perform all three roles well.