The Greatest CMs Of All Time
Who are the greatest CMs of all time? It’s a question that sparks endless debate among football fans. Recently, legendary Spanish CM Cesc Fabregas offered his own opinion, revealing a personal list of the four legends he believes deserve that title.
Cesc Fabregas, who played for Arsenal, Chelsea, Barcelona, and the Spain national team, is widely regarded as one of the most intelligent CMs in modern football. Known for his sharp vision, elite passing, and football IQ, he left a lasting legacy at both club and international levels.
During his career, Fabregas played 739 professional matches, scored 125 goals, and contributed 216 assists. He lifted the FIFA World Cup, two UEFA European Championships, and numerous club trophies. Despite his success, Fabregas always remained humble and focused on teamwork rather than personal glory.
In a recent interview with SportBible, he was asked to name his personal Mount Rushmore of CMs — in other words, the greatest CMs of all time. True to his character, Fabregas left himself off the list and instead honored four iconic legends.
🔝 Fabregas’ Top 4 Greatest CMs of All Time
1. Zinedine Zidane – Top one greatest CMs of all time.
The first name on Fabregas’ list of the greatest CMs of all time is Zinedine Zidane, the French maestro who dazzled for both Real Madrid and Juventus. Zidane is remembered for his elegance on the ball, vision, and ability to perform in crucial moments.
Zinedine Zidane won the 1998 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA Euro 2000, earning the Ballon d’Or in 1998. Across his career, he made 690 appearances, scoring 125 goals and delivering 142 assists. Fabregas highlighted that Zidane’s brilliance often became most noticeable when he was absent from the pitch.
2. Xavi Hernandez – Top two greatest CMs of all time
Xavi, the engine of Barcelona’s tiki-taka style and a key part of Spain’s golden era, is Fabregas’ second pick for the greatest CMs of all time. Known for his control, intelligence, and precise passing, Xavi dictated the tempo of matches like few others ever have.
Xavi Hernandez played 767 matches for Barcelona and ranks among the top assist providers in the club’s history. His leadership helped Spain win Euro 2008, World Cup 2010, and Euro 2012. Fabregas praised his deep influence on modern football tactics.
3. Andres Iniesta – top three greatest CMs of all time
Next on Ceca Fabregas’ list of the greatest CMs of all time is Andres Iniesta, the creative magician known for calmness under pressure and game-changing brilliance.
Iniesta famously scored the winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final against Netherlands, earning Spain its first-ever World Cup. He also won UEFA’s Best Player in Europe in 2012. With 35 major trophies, including four Champions League titles, Iniesta is Spain’s most decorated footballer.
4. Michel Platini – Top four greatest CMs of all time
Rounding out the list of the greatest CMs of all time is Michel Platini, the French icon who lit up the 1980s. Platini’s standout moment came at UEFA Euro 1984, where he was the top scorer with 9 goals and led France to victory.
At club level, Platini starred for Juventus and won the Ballon d’Or three times consecutively (1983, 1984, 1985). He scored 297 goals in 550 games — an exceptional record for a CM. Fabregas admitted he idolized Platini during his youth, making his inclusion even more special.
Why This List Stands Out
Fabregas’ list celebrates not just statistics, but influence, style, and leadership. Each player brought something unique to the game, shaping the role of CMs for future generations.
If you’re passionate about football and want to explore more opinions about the greatest CMs of all time, stay tuned to FootKix.com for more exclusive insights.
