Finding the best central midfielders in Bundesliga – data analysis

Last week, the first data analysis of this series got published in which we looked at the most interesting full-backs that play in the Bundesliga. In this week’s analysis, the task will be to use data and statistics to find some of the best and most undervalued central midfielders in Germany’s top division.

Hopefully, we will find players who are showing good potential to succeed in the future given the Bundesliga clubs’ willingness to promote and develop youth players. This data analysis includes midfielders who have either played as central or as defensive midfielders and have played a minimum of 850 minutes in the league this season. In the end, this analysis will produce a list of some of the most interesting central midfielders in the league who have the potential to make a step forward in their career and perhaps don’t get enough recognition.

Progressive runs and passes 

The first section of this data analysis consists of the players ability to make progressions down the field either with a pass or a run. Progressive runs are a good indicator of whether a midfielder can carry the ball into more advanced areas. Progressive passes can give us an idea of how often player tries advanced solutions.

Spanish metronome Thiago Alcantara leads the midfielders in progressive passes with 13.62 per game. The midfielder has become a standout player for Bayern Munich this season, helping the team rediscover its form under Hansi Flick.

The leader in progressive runs is Borussia Dortmund’s Julian Brandt with 1.95 runs per game. It should be noted that Brandt does often play as either an attacking midfielder or winger so his numbers will be slightly inflated. He has a decent value of 7.51 progressive passes per game.

A