Get to know the Top 10 Brazil Midfielders of all time, throughout history, the Samba dancers in midfield have demonstrated their ability to cover vast areas of the pitch, along with excellent ball control, accurate passing, and mastery in dictating the rhythm of play.
The midfielder is regarded as the key to transitioning from defense to attack, requiring the ability to win back possession, retain it, distribute it quickly, and create attacking opportunities.
A midfielder is considered the key link in transitioning from defense to attack, which requires the ability to win back possession, retain the ball, distribute it quickly, and create attacking opportunities.
Top 10 Brazil Midfielders of All Time.. Ranked
1. Ronaldinho
One of the most naturally gifted footballers of his generation, Ronaldinho dazzled with his extraordinary technique and creativity.
He featured in two World Cups, lifting the trophy in 2002. Across 10 appearances, the former AC Milan star scored twice, leaving fans mesmerized with his flair and joy for the game.
2. Rivaldo
Rivaldo is remembered as one of modern football’s great playmakers.
A FIFA World Player of the Year and Ballon d’Or winner, he played at two World Cups, winning in 2002, with eight goals in 14 World Cup appearances, his combination of power, skill, and finishing ability made him a decisive figure for Brazil.
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3. Gilberto Silva
A midfield anchor, Gilberto Silva became a vital presence for Brazil from the 2002 World Cup onwards, where his defensive solidity helped the Seleção to glory.
Known for his calmness, intelligence, and reading of the game, he went on to appear in three consecutive tournaments, earning widespread respect for his consistency.
4. Leonardo
A versatile talent, Leonardo was capable of playing either as a left-back or in midfield.
He was part of Brazil’s victorious 1994 squad, though his tournament was cut short by suspension, four years later, he played every game as Brazil reached the 1998 final, showcasing his adaptability and technical ability.
5. Zico
Often described as the best player never to win a World Cup, Zico was a dazzling attacking midfielder of the 1980s.
Renowned for his dribbling, vision, and deadly free kicks, he represented Brazil at three tournaments but never lifted the trophy, leaving behind a bittersweet legacy despite his brilliance.
6. Dunga
A hard-tackling midfielder with excellent passing range, Dunga played in three consecutive World Cups. He captained Brazil to victory in 1994, providing leadership and discipline at the heart of midfield.
Although his side fell short in 1998, his influence as a deep-lying orchestrator was undeniable.
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7. Zizinho
A star of the 1950 World Cup, Zizinho lit up the tournament with his vision, dribbling, and technical brilliance.
Operating mainly on the right wing, he scored against Yugoslavia and Spain, cementing his place as one of Brazil’s early greats and earning admiration across the footballing world.
8. Didi
Twice a World Cup winner, Didi was a complete midfielder whose pace, passing, and powerful shot defined Brazil’s dominance.
Named Player of the Tournament in 1958, he played a pivotal role again in 1962, helping his nation secure back-to-back triumphs and earning his place among the game’s legends.
9. Roberto Rivellino
Recognizable by his trademark moustache, Rivellino thrilled fans with his explosive free kicks and inventive “flip flap” dribble.
He played in three World Cups and was part of the iconic 1970 squad, scoring three goals in a team widely regarded as one of the greatest of all time.
10. Garrincha
Nicknamed The Little Bird, Garrincha is often hailed as the greatest dribbler the game has ever seen.
A right winger of breathtaking skill, he won two World Cups (1958 and 1962), scoring five goals in 12 appearances. Considered as influential as Pelé, his magical play remains legendary in Brazil’s history.
