Position: Defensive Midfielder
Clubs: Benfica, Chelsea, Manchester United, Roma
Nemanja Matić may not have the flashy gym physique of Traoré or Ronaldo, but his strength lies in control. At 1.94 m, he uses his size to shield the ball, block pressing opponents, and dominate midfield duels.
His unique strength? Positional dominance through physicality. Matić uses his body as a wall in midfield, giving his teams a stable defensive presence. For anyone searching for strongest midfielders in football, Matić remains a prime example of how strength controls the tempo of games.
Final Thoughts
Fans often ask about Zlatan Ibrahimović, Yaya Touré, or Didier Drogba. While they were once among the most physical players, the seven above are the ones shaping the discussion on strength in football today. They combine physical dominance with the modern game’s demands.The top 7 strongest footballers in the world show how strength isn’t just about muscle, it’s about how you use it. Akinfenwa dominated with raw power, Traoré with explosive runs, van Dijk with defensive calm, and Ronaldo with total athleticism.
Now it’s your turn to join the debate. Who do you think is the strongest footballer in the world right now? Is brute power more important for strikers or defenders? Which past legend deserves to still be remembered as one of the strongest soccer players ever?

