Where does Real Madrid’s midfield rank among the best in the world in 2022?

2. Bayern Munich

The second-best midfield in the world, in my opinion, can be found in Munich, Germany. Bayern Munich has been the uncontested king of the Bundesliga and apart from their Superstar, Robert Lewandowski, Bayern’s main show has been about its midfield.

Julian Nagelsmann has selected the 4-2-3-1 as the starting shape for Bayern with Lewandowski getting all the attention he deserves. Playing right behind him mostly is Thomas Muller and the attacking midfielder continues to be a key man in their midfield. Although he plays in a very advanced position, he has been their outlet for launching through balls or creative passes and has 16 assists to his name.

The experienced veteran is doing his primary duties in the midfield. But, for me, this season has been all about the two in that 4-2-3-1, Leon Goretzka and Joshua Kimmich. Kimmich and Goretzka in my opinion have been the dynamic duo in midfield in entire Europe. They are both first-choice for both club and country. While Kimmich is deployed as a low-lying playmaker, Goretzka makes it up with his box-to-box nature alongside launching venomous long-shots.

The players operating wide on both sides of Muller are generally Serge Gnarby and Leroy Sane, both very talented in the creative sense. Although the club website lists these players as Forwards, they are very equipped of playing in the midfield. Even if we do not consider these players, Bayern’s ball carriers playing behind the second line in their formation have been sharp enough to justify this ranking.

On the bench, there are Marcel Sabitzer, Marc Roca, and Corentin Tolisso to weigh in as pure midfielders. The attacking midfield department too is extensive with Jamal Musiala yet to perform to his potential. At full strength, Bayern’s midfield is a deadly contingent to go up against.