Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Vitinha has revealed his personal ranking of the world’s elite playmakers, sparking debate with a surprising omission from his list.
When asked to name the very best in the game, Vitinha placed Barcelona’s Pedri at the pinnacle, describing the young Spaniard as “magical” and a revelation to play against. He lauded Pedri’s skill, emphasizing the sheer spectacle of watching him control a match.
But the list didn’t stop there. Vitinha included himself, alongside Benfica’s rising star Joao Neves, and, perhaps most notably, Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, forming a formidable top four.
Fernandes’ inclusion is a testament to his consistently impactful performances for United, a team he’s helped propel back into contention after a difficult period. His seven goals and fourteen assists this season speak volumes.
The surprising name absent from Vitinha’s selection? Arsenal’s Declan Rice. Despite a stellar season for both club and country, and a pivotal role in Arsenal’s Premier League title challenge, Rice didn’t make the cut.
Rice’s impact at Arsenal has been undeniable, quickly justifying the substantial investment made to secure his services. He’s been a near ever-present figure, anchoring the midfield and driving Mikel Arteta’s side forward.
The omission has fueled discussion, especially considering the high praise Rice has received from other footballing figures. Gary Lineker, for example, considers Rice a leading contender for Player of the Season.
Lineker acknowledged that awards often favor players on championship-winning teams, but highlighted Rice’s exceptional performance even during Arsenal’s challenging moments. He praised Rice’s footballing intelligence and technical ability.
Vitinha’s PSG currently leads Ligue 1 and prepares for a challenging Champions League tie against Chelsea, continuing their quest to defend their European crown. The midfielder’s assessment offers a fascinating insight into the minds of those at the very top of the game.
The debate over the world’s best midfielders is sure to continue, but Vitinha’s perspective provides a unique and compelling contribution to the conversation, highlighting the exceptional talent currently gracing the sport.
