279 Best Young Midfielders in Football Manager 2026

Goalkeepers | Defenders | Strikers

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Goalkeepers | Defenders | Strikers

Welcome to our list of the best midfielders under-23 years old in FM26!

Below is a brief introduction to one of the most interesting positions in football. Take a look at the beginning of this post if you are just looking for the list with the best 279 midfielders in Football Manager 2026.

Introduction

Controlling the middle of the field is the key to winning matches in Football Manager 2026. One position that is crucial to a team’s success is the midfielder. The best player on the team will typically play this position. They have to perform various tasks on the field depending on the midfielders role they are assigned.

A Dual Position

Versatility is the main feature of any midfielder. This is a dual position in football as midfielders will be playing an offensive position and a defensive position. Players have to be creative and feisty. They need to find ways to set up a scoring play and stop the opposition’s aggressive attacks. Qualifications that are necessary of these players include being a creative passer, recognising other teammate’s roles, and have terrific technical skills. They need to be one of the best dribblers and ball-handlers on the team.

Centre Midfielder

The centre midfielders position is the most challenging in all of football. They are constantly close to the ball and will do most of the running on the field. Centre midfielders also help attack when their team is offensively making the play and need to defend when the opposing team has the ball.

Defensive Midfielder

Reading the game is an important trait for defensive midfielders in FM 2026. When the defence recovers the ball an outlet is needed for passing down the field. Centre attacks will not be necessary. Offensive players will need to be covered is they are above the penalty area moving moving across the centre of the field. He must also help set up the offence by connecting on long crossing passes. If the midfielders are applying pressure, the opposing team will need to use their wingers to move the ball down the field.

Side Midfielder

These are the wingers on the field and are typically the fastest players. They will look for open space at the sideline and the corners of the field to dribble past opposing players. Flexibility is afforded when using four-man or five-man midfield formations. Sprinting for long passing runs or following the ball into the offensive zone are two of the most important traits of a winger.

Attacking Midfielder

The main focus of attacking midfielders is to create plays for the team. They will need to look for ways to create opportunities for attacking by strikers and other players. However, attackers should be looking for ways to score goals when they can. Dribbling and looking for a shot on goal are other traits which are vital for these football players.

Passing Skills

Dribbling the ball through traffic is not always the best course of action for a midfielder. Being able to find open teammates and accurately passing the ball are more important.

A midfielder should have a well-rounded skill set for football. Players will constantly be dribbling, shooting, passing, defending, and looking for ways to score.