Centre-backs are some of the most important players in every team since their position is the most contested by opposition players, especially centre-forwards. The Premier League has some of the best players in this position.

In the 2022/23 season, centre-backs have proved vital for their team. From Thiago Silva and Fabian Schar to Virgil van Dijk, Interesting Football brings you the best centre-backs in the Premier League this season.

1. Thiago Silva

The Brazilian centre-back is arguably one of the best in the English Premier League. Apart from his role in the defence, he’s leadership qualities have helped Chelsea navigate through the troubling times.

Experience comes into play for Thiago Silva which is one of the reasons Graham Potter has built the team around him.

Although injuries have kept him on the sidelines, he’s been effective whenever he is on the pitch.

Read: Top 10 best defenders in the Premier League 

2. James Tarkowski

There’s no other way to describe James Tarkowski in the Premier League, he’s been exceptional, and good money well spent by the Toffees. The English centre-back is among the best in the Premier League and has been hailed for his ability to create strong resistance in the defence against opponents.

Another area he’s shown to be exceptional is his ability to make good blocks and well-timed ball clearances. He has shown to be able to absorb pressure from the opposition.

According to statistics, Tarkowski has been in a good run of form. This season, he has been crucial to the club’s quest to preserve their Premier League status beyond next season.

3. Fabian Schar

Fabian Schar has transformed into a reliable guardian at the back of St James’s Park. His outstanding performance has led to the team’s fewer goals conceded.

Last season was an explosion for the Swiss international who helped Newcastle United to finish the season as the team to concede the least number of goals.

The trio of Fabian Schar, Kieran Trippier, and Sven Botman has strengthened Newcastle United’s defence this season. They’ve single-handedly kept the team in the most important moments.

Read: Top 10 Best right backs in the Premier League

4. Ben Mee

Ben Mee surprised his doubters following his arrival at the Gtech Community Stadium. The former Burnley defender has been successful in aerial duels, accurate passes, possessions, and interceptions.

So far, he’s been one of the backbones defensively for Brentford as they remain on course to finish the season strong.

Ben Mee was given the nod back in August against Leicester City and has become one of the players with the most appearances at the club all season.

5. Virgil van Dijk

Virgil van Dijk has been rock solid in defence for Liverpool since he arrived at the club in 2017. The Dutchman, known for his leadership qualities, is not new to the list as he’s always made up of numbers.

2021/23 has been troubling for the Reds. However, van Dijk has been one of the most consistent players on the first team, even though it may not be his best season.

That said, he remains one of the best centre-backs in world football.

6. Rúben Dias

Ruben Dias is undoubtedly the best signing of Manchester City in the defence due to his outstanding performance. The Portuguese footballer has changed how we see centre-backs in the English top flight.

He is currently considered one of the best defenders in the world. His defensive prowess and leadership skills make him stand out from other defenders in the Premier League.

Dias won the 2020/21 Premier League Player of the Season after arriving in the English top flight before the start of the campaign. City boss Pep Guardiola has hailed his contributions to the team.

7. Sven Botman

Sven Botman is an excellent player in the centre-half. His use of the ball has been hailed by many. The Dutchman joined the club in 2022 from Ligue 1 side Lille.

The 23-year-old is shown to be the present and the future of Newcastle’s defence. He is good at positioning and intercepting crosses. He has formed a solid defensive wall alongside Kieran Trippier and Fabian Schar.

Newcastle United’s quest for the Champions League could depend on their ability to hold the ball at the back.

Read: Top 10 Best midfielders in the Premier League

8. Lisandro Martinez

Lisandro Martínez is one of the best defenders in the Premier League this season. The Argentine quickly established a strong footing in United’s defence and was crucial for the team’s triumph at the Carabao Cup.

Since his arrival, pundits have hailed him due to his performance. He is known for his tackles, ball distribution, perfect positioning, and awareness, and he has shown to be successful in one-on-one situations on multiple occasions.

Lisandro Martínez was also key to Argentina’s success at the World Cup in Qatar last year. At Old Trafford, Erik ten Haag has built his defence around him alongside Tyrell Malacia and Raphaël Varane.

9. Gabriel Magalhães

Arsenal’s title charge may not be the same without the brilliance of Gabriel Magalhães. The Brazilian has been rock solid for the Gunners this season and is one of the players with the most appearances at the club.

Gabriel Magalhães has been hailed for his immediate error correction abilities. He is sometimes seen as one who has sights on the EPL title due to his commitment and standard display on matchdays.

The 25-year-old Brazilian defender had some drawbacks at some point in the season but has bounced back and has maintained good form ever since.

10. John Stones

John Stones is one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League. The Portuguese defender has shown to be one of the reliable options for Pep Guardiola. Although recently, his position was under threat with the emergence of Nathan Ake, he has continued to put out a good display.

This season, Stones has been crucial to Manchester City’s title charge even though Pep Guardiola has multiple options. He has continued to play his best whenever he’s on the pitch.