Italian Midfield Maestros: Best Playmakers of 2025
The heart of every great football team lies in its midfield — a realm where vision, control, and intelligence define success. In Serie A, a league long celebrated for tactical mastery, midfielders often emerge not only as support players but as leaders orchestrating every movement. The 2025 Xe88 season continues this tradition with a host of midfield maestros who have taken control of matches and led their teams to new heights. This article delves into the best Italian playmakers in Serie A and why they are the engine behind their clubs’ aspirations.
1. Nicolo Barella (Inter Milan)
Nicolo Barella remains the gold standard for Italian midfielders in 2025. At 28, he’s at the peak of his powers. Barella’s box-to-box dynamism, tireless work ethic, and laser-precise passing make him the heartbeat of Inter Milan. This season, his average of 89% passing accuracy and 3.2 key passes per game underline his value.
Barella not only delivers in stats but shows the mentality of a true leader. His ability to transition quickly from defense to attack keeps Inter sharp, particularly in tight matches where his decision-making shines. His understanding with Lautaro Martínez and Marcus Thuram has turned Inter into one of the most fluid attacking teams in the league.
2. Davide Frattesi (Inter Milan)
Frattesi has emerged as the perfect complement to Barella in Inter’s midfield. With his late runs into the box and knack for scoring crucial goals, he adds a different dynamic to the team. What separates Frattesi is his fearless attitude—he’s not afraid to take risks and has matured tactically under Simone Inzaghi’s guidance.
Despite tough competition for midfield spots, Frattesi has made a strong case to become a regular for both club and country. His contributions in high-pressure situations, including late goals and assists, prove he’s more than just a backup — he’s becoming indispensable.
3. Manuel Locatelli (Juventus)
At Juventus, Locatelli has taken on more responsibility as the regista — the deep-lying playmaker. His calmness under pressure and ability to distribute the ball vertically and horizontally with accuracy have given Juventus more control in games.
Locatelli has also improved defensively. With an average of 2.6 tackles and 1.7 interceptions per match, he’s turned into a complete midfielder. His maturity has been vital for Juventus in transitioning to a more possession-based style under their new tactical setup.
4. Giacomo Bonaventura (Fiorentina)
At 36, Bonaventura may not be the youngest name on this list, but his influence remains unmatched at Fiorentina. A blend of experience, flair, and leadership, Bonaventura continues to pull the strings from midfield. In 2025, he’s playing some of his best football, contributing with both goals and assists.
His vision and close control allow him to operate in tight spaces, often unlocking defenses with clever through balls. Young talents at Fiorentina, like Beltran and Kayode, have benefited greatly from Bonaventura’s mentorship on and off the pitch.
5. Tommaso Baldanzi (Roma)
The rise of Baldanzi has been one of the most exciting storylines in Serie A this year. After a strong spell with Empoli, his move to Roma has allowed him to shine on a bigger stage. His dribbling, creativity, and fearless attitude in the attacking third have made him a standout performer.
Though still developing physically, Baldanzi’s technical ability and vision are already top-tier. With five assists and four goals by mid-season, he’s proving to be one of the most exciting young midfielders in the league.
Honorable Mentions
Fabiano Parisi (Napoli) – Technically a left-back, but often plays in an inverted midfield role, showcasing strong distribution and intelligent movement.
Samuele Ricci (Torino) – Quietly developing into one of the league’s most consistent central midfielders.
Mattia Zaccagni (Lazio) – More of a wide midfielder, but his creative input is crucial for Lazio’s attacking system.
Why Italian Midfielders Shine in Serie A
Serie A’s tactical nature has long nurtured smart, positionally aware midfielders. Italian coaching philosophy emphasizes discipline, structure, and vision — qualities that define the players mentioned above.
Moreover, the league's increasing blend of youth development and international experience has created the perfect platform for playmakers to evolve. Whether it's Barella’s intensity, Locatelli’s balance, or Baldanzi’s flair, Italy continues to produce midfielders who can thrive in any European league.
The Role of Midfielders in Modern League Success
In today’s game, midfielders aren’t just facilitators — they are decision-makers, tempo setters, and often match-winners. Their ability to connect defense to attack and dominate central spaces often dictates whether a team can challenge for titles or survive relegation battles.
Italian midfielders are embracing this responsibility. Their influence extends beyond domestic football; many are making their mark in European competitions, showcasing Serie A’s depth and talent.
Conclusion: The Maestros Keep the League Alive
Italian midfielders in 2025 are more than just players — they are artists, thinkers, and warriors on the pitch. From experienced veterans like Bonaventura to emerging stars like Baldanzi, they continue to define the narrative of Serie A.
As the league evolves, so too do these maestros, ensuring that Italian football remains a breeding ground for midfield excellence. To truly appreciate the beauty of the league, one must watch these playmakers in action.
Support your favorite players and teams — and most importantly, support the league. Let’s keep celebrating the magic of football through the brilliance of these midfield maestros.
