# Who is the best midfielder in Brazil national team history?

> Brazilian midfielders have long been celebrated for artistry and intelligence — from elegant playmakers to powerful engines who defined eras. Who is the greatest of them all?

*By YPB Team · Published May 24, 2026 · https://youpick.best/ranking/who-is-the-best-midfielder-in-brazil-national-team-history*

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## Current results (no votes yet)

1. **Zico**
   The White Pelé — Brazil's greatest midfielder who was voted the best player of the 1982 World Cup team regarded as the finest never to win.
2. **Sócrates**
   Brazil's intellectual philosopher-footballer who was the captain and creative heart of the dazzling 1982 and 1986 World Cup squads.
3. **Kaká**
   Brazil's elegant and dynamic attacking midfielder who won the Ballon d'Or in 2007 and the 2002 World Cup with Brazil.
4. **Roberto Rivelino**
   Brazil's attacking midfielder famous for his left foot and free-kicks who starred in the 1970 World Cup and the 1974 and 1978 tournaments.
5. **Casemiro**
   Brazil's indispensable defensive midfielder who was the shield that allowed Brazil's creative players to flourish for over a decade.
6. **Lucas Paquetá**
   Brazil's most technically gifted modern midfielder who has delivered outstanding performances and established himself as an international star.
7. **Philippe Coutinho**
   Brazil's technically brilliant attacking midfielder who was one of the most complete playmakers Brazil has produced in recent decades.
8. **Rivaldo**
   Brazil's 2002 World Cup-winning maestro who was a multi-positional genius, capable of playing as a striker, winger or attacking midfielder.

Tags: sports, football, players, legends, brazil, national teams