FULL LIST: Top 10 world’s best attacking midfielders

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Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has been named the best attacking midfielder in world football in Planet Football’s latest rankings, beating Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes and Argentine youngster Nico Paz to the top spot.

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The ranking, sighted by PUNCH Online on Wednesday, focuses on traditional No. 10s, creative midfielders and attack-minded playmakers, while excluding deeper midfielders and defensive operators from consideration.

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Bellingham claimed the number one position despite a season that fell below the exceptionally high standards he set after joining Real Madrid. The England international faced questions over his role alongside the club’s other attacking stars, but his performances at the World Cup reminded fans of his ability to influence matches at the highest level.

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Planet Football highlighted that Bellingham’s struggles were largely linked to Real Madrid’s midfield balance following the departures of influential figures such as Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić, rather than a decline in his individual quality.

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Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was ranked second after another impressive creative campaign.

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The Portugal international was praised for his passing ability and chance creation, finishing among the most productive playmakers in Europe’s top five leagues.

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Fernandes’ individual performances stood out despite Manchester United’s inconsistent season, with his creativity and leadership continuing to make him one of the world’s most influential attacking midfielders.

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Como and Argentina star Nico Paz completed the top three after a breakthrough season that saw him emerge as one of football’s brightest young talents. The 21-year-old played a key role in Como’s impressive campaign and has attracted interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.

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Manchester City’s Rayan Cherki was ranked fourth after an excellent first season in England, where he contributed goals and assists while providing creativity and flair in attack.

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Barcelona and Spain midfielder Dani Olmo finished fifth, with his ability to deliver in important matches earning him recognition despite strong competition within his club and national team.

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Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White was ranked sixth after a strong second half of the season, while Chelsea forward Cole Palmer came seventh following a campaign affected by injuries and inconsistent form.

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Liverpool midfielder Florian Wirtz was placed eighth. Although he struggled to fully meet expectations after his high-profile move, his quality and potential remained highly rated.

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Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard finished ninth, with his technical ability and influence still recognised despite a drop in attacking numbers compared with previous seasons.

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Barcelona midfielder Fermín López completed the top 10 after continuing his rise as one of Spain’s most promising young attacking midfielders.

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Several high-profile players, including Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala, missed out on the final list, with recent form playing a major role in the selections.

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Top 10 attacking midfielders in world football ranked:

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Jude Bellingham

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Bruno Fernandes

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Nico Paz

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Rayan Cherki

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Dani Olmo

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Morgan Gibbs-White

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Cole Palmer

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Florian Wirtz

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Martin Ødegaard

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Fermín López

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