A look at the greatest midfield partnerships of the 21st Century

#1 Xavi Hernandez and Andres Iniesta (Barcelona and Spain)

Xavi and Iniesta won everything on offer with Barcelona and Spain

The top spot simply had to go to the two magicians who learnt their trade at La Masia: Xavi and Iniesta. The duo ruled football for half a decade and sowed the seeds for a footballing philosophy that exists even today (despite them not playing at the top level).

The Spaniards were very similar to each other yet they worked so effortlessly together. The only difference was probably their inclination to carry the ball. While Xavi was more of a spreader of passes, Iniesta was a mazy dribbler who carried the ball into the heart of the opposition.

However, what made them great was their understanding. Whenever Xavi had the ball, he telepathically knew where Iniesta would be and vice versa. Sir Alex Ferguson once famously quipped that the two were the ‘midfield carousel’ and if you take a look at their displays you wouldn’t be too shocked.

The pair won everything on offer on the planet and led their club and country to unparalleled success. Both possessed the ability to conjure magic in the blink of an eye and were a nightmare to play against.

They were a treat to watch and made the whole world fall in love with the game of football. The way they caressed the ball, the way they glided across the pitch and the way they created space was a sight to behold.

They don’t make such midfield partnerships anymore. As simple as that. Thus, it is no surprise that they top our list of the greatest midfield partnerships in the 21st century.