FIFA 22 is just around the corner, due for release on October 1st, which means it's almost that time, that time when you start over with your Ultimate Team; buying a batch of packs and scouring the market for bargains while trying to build the most competitive team possible.
These first few weeks are perhaps the most exciting of the whole season, unexpected restarts or a new face can leave an indelible mark on your team and so it is important to try to find the players who match your style of play or complement the others you find in your team.
One of those key early decisions for your ultimate team is who you put in the middle of the park. A good centre-midfielder (CM) can elevate a team to new heights, while neglecting position can see a team struggle to build a cohesive attack or lack form when defensively.
Who is the best CM in FIFA 22 is subjective though; if you're going to build a measured and efficient pass attack a la Barcelona '08, you'll need a shrewd passer with good control a la Pedri if you want to move the ball forward as quickly as possible , you can look for someone with the drive and determination of a Youri Tielemans, it all depends on how you plan to build your team.
- Read more: The best centre-backs to buy in FIFA 22 Ultimate Team
To help you with this crucial decision, we've put together a list of some of the best meta CMs in FIFA 22, including some budget picks, mid-range ones, as well as absolute world class - so it doesn't matter what your CM range is. price, we've got you covered.
The best central midfielders to buy in FUT 22
Neither ratings nor prices have been released for FIFA 22, with these not expected until the end of September, but based on last season's ratings and taking this season's performance into account, we have make some estimates.
We will of course update this page with the appropriate ratings and prices as well as any players we have missed, when this data becomes available.
The best world-class CMs to buy for your FIFA 22 Ultimate Team
Five of the best CMs in the game and - if they're even on the market - will set you back a pretty penny.
Paul Pogba – Manchester United (86)
Rumors are swirling about Paul Pogba's future (honestly, has that ever been the case?) but wherever he ends up, he'll be the star man.
With abilities that only a few people in the world possess and a physique that allows him to dominate others, Pogba is frightening when in good shape. If you have the money, that's a no-brainer.
Leon Goretzka – Bayern Munich (87)
Goretzka is fast becoming the star of a Bayern Munich side looking to rise from the glories of the past. His all-action performance in midfield makes him one of the best in his position, also capable of assisting in attack and defence. A real all-rounder.
Koke – Atletico Madrid (86)
Koke has become Mr Atlético Madrid in recent years. At the club his whole life, Koke played over 500 games, won 2 La Liga titles, 2 Europa League titles and finished second in the Champions League twice.
It's been quite a career, and now at 29, Koke has become one of the club's undisputed stars as he sets the tempo and dictates the game from the middle of the park.
Honorable Mentions:
- FC Barcelona (87) – Frenkie de Jong
- Luka Modric – Real Madrid (87)
- Marco Veratti - Paris Saint-Germain (87)
Best mid-range CMs to buy for your FIFA 22 Ultimate Team
These guys are ballers through and through and if you're lucky you might be able to find one on the cheap.
Nicolò Barella - Inter (83)
Gundogan – Man City (84)
Ivan Rakitic – Sevilla (82)
Honorable Mentions:
- Arthur – Juventus (83)
- Federico Valverde – Real Madrid (83)
- Arturo Vidal - Inter Milan (82)
Best cheap CMs to buy for your FIFA 22 Ultimate Team
Some are cheaper; great beginner players and all able to play the ball.
- Manuel Locatelli - Sassuolo (80)
- Ander Herrera – Paris Saint-Germain (79)
- James Ward-Prowse – Southampton (79)
- Rafael Alcantara – FC Barcelona (79)
- Geoffrey Kondogbia – Valencia (79)
- André Filipe Tavares Gomes – Everton (79)
We'll be updating this page throughout the life of FIFA 22, so if you find yourself stuck after building your initial squad, come back as we might have some leads for you.
For more FIFA 22 guides, news and views; check out our dedicated hub.
