Top 10 Best defensive midfielders in the Premier League 2023/2024

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Ibiye Ambille
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Defensive midfielders are important due to the greater protection they offer the defenders and the overall stability they bring to the team.

 

That said, the modern era of football has ushered in some of the most brilliant players in this position and Premier League has an abundance of some of the best talents in the world.

 

Interesting Football brings you the best defensive midfielders in the EPL this season.

 

1. Rodri

 

Rodri is the current best defensive midfielder (DM) in the Premier League and one of the top midfielders in the world. He has had a great start to the season, starting in all six matches and scoring twice in the league.

 

Rodri’s strengths are passing, aerial duels, and making crucial interceptions. He is the anchor in Manchester City’s midfield, providing stability and control in the middle of the park. He is a key player for Pep Guardiola’s side, who rely on his vision and composure.

AVG rating per match: 7.5

Passing: 91%

 

2. Casemiro (Manchester United)

Casemiro is a Real Madrid legend who joined Manchester United in August 2022 and has been a regular starter for the team since then. He played 28 matches last season and provided much-needed stability in the midfield.

His contribution has proved crucial in the Carabao Cup and Champions League as well, where he scored some important goals this season.

Casemiro’s strength lies in doing the dirty work for his team, like breaking up opposition play and committing vital fouls to stop teams from countering. He is a tough and tenacious midfielder who can also contribute with his passing and shooting.

AVG rating per match: 7.34

Passing: 84%

Read: Top 10 Best midfielders in the Premier League

 

3. Declan Rice (Arsenal FC)

 

Declan Rice made history when he became the most expensive transfer in English history after joining Arsenal from West Ham United.

 

He is a commanding midfielder with a reputation for making crucial interceptions. He receives a lot of praise for his hold-up play and is very good at transitions. He can help build up attacks and has an excellent range of passing.

 

Rice has quickly adapted to life in London and is already a fan favorite thanks to his match-winning goal against Manchester United. He is a leader on and off the pitch who can inspire his teammates with his work ethic and determination.

Avg. rating per match: 7

Passing: 92.6%

 

Read: Top 10 Best attacking midfielders in the Premier League 

4. Sandro Tonali (Newcastle United)

Sandro Tonali is a deep-lying midfielder with a good passing range and a knack for making interceptions. He can help with attacks since he can dribble well.

 

He has excellent passing range, is good with tackles, and does a good job of linking the attack with the defense. He was a surprise buy from AC Milan and has instantly impacted the Premier League.

 

He has played in five matches for Newcastle, scoring his first goal in his debut match. He is a young and talented midfielder who can become one of the best in his position.

AVG rating per match: 6.52

Passing: 83%

 

5. Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool FC)

 

Alexis Mac Allister is a talented midfielder with great passing range and vision. He can support attacks with his dribbling skills. He is a box-to-box midfielder who likes to move forward and assist the attack.

 

He is also a capable defensive midfielder who can help protect his team’s goal. Mac Allister has time to become a top midfielder, as he is only 24 years old. He is a promising young player who has the potential to become an Anfield hero.

Average rating per match: 6.89

Passing accuracy: 88.4%

Read: The best box to box midfielders in the worl ranked

 

6. Moisés Caicedo (Chelsea FC)

 

Moisés Caicedo is a versatile player who can play various roles, including central midfield, defensive midfield, and box-to-box midfield. His vigour, athleticism, and tackling prowess are well-known.

 

Caicedo can successfully break up play thanks to his powerful tackling ability. He excels at recovering the ball in midfield. Caicedo works diligently and is always ready to pitch in for his squad.

 

He joined Chelsea this summer as the most expensive transfer in the Premier League ever, but his debut match was not one to remember as he conceded a penalty which led to the team’s defeat. However, he has improved over time and will only get better.

AVG rating per match: 6.8

Passing: 86%

 

Read: Top 10 best defenders in the Premier League 

 

7. Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea FC)

 

Enzo Fernández is a skilled player who can play in different midfield positions, such as central midfield, offensive midfield, and defensive midfield. He is renowned for his work ethic, creativity, and leadership.

 

He is a World Cup winner with France and has won many trophies with Chelsea. He can create chances for his teammates with his passing and vision. He can also score goals with his long shots and free kicks. He is one of the best midfielders in the world.

Average rating per match: 6.93%

Passing accuracy: 87.4%

 

8. Youri Tielemans (Aston Villa FC)

Youri Tielemans is a dynamic midfielder with great passing, vision, and shooting talents. He can support attacks with his great passing and dribbling skills.

 

He is a box-to-box midfielder who likes to move forward and assist the attack. He is also a capable defensive midfielder who can help defend his team’s goal by making big tackles and interceptions.

 

Tielemans is known for scoring long-range goals, as he did in the last season, but he is yet to find the net this season.

Average rating per match: 6.27%

Passing accuracy: 86.2%

 

9. Yves Bissouma (Tottenham Hotspur)

 

Yves Bissouma is a defensive midfielder who excels in tackles, interceptions, and recovery rates. He can help with attacks and is a good passer.

 

Bissouma is a strong presence in the middle of the pitch with good play-breaking skills. He excels at recovering lost possession in the midfield.

 

Bissouma is a reliable player who consistently goes the extra mile for his team and has been the standout performer for Spurs.

 

Average rating per match: 6.86

Passing accuracy: 76%

 

Read: Top 10 Best strikers in the Premier League

10. Edson Alvarez (West Ham United FC)

 

Edson Alvarez is a versatile midfielder who can play in various positions, including defensive midfield, central midfield, and defensive fullback.

 

He is renowned for his physical prowess, tackling ability, and work ethic. Alvarez can successfully break up play with his powerful tackles and recover the ball quickly in the midfield.

 

Alvarez is a dedicated worker who consistently contributes to his team. Considering that Alvarez is still only 25 years old, he has the chance to develop into a star midfielder. He is a talented young player who shows a lot of promise.

Average rating per match: 6.79

Passing accuracy: 81.2%