Ranking the 10 Best Defensive Midfielders | 2025

The defensive midfielder’s role is no longer what it used to be, all about brute force alone; nowadays, it’s more about control. But what defines the ‘best defensive midfielder’? Is it crushing tackles? Or breaking counterattacks? Or the calm & composure under immense pressure to hold the ball from players?

This year, the best defensive players aren’t just breaking up plays anymore; they’re rewriting the rules. Players like Rodri and Joshua Kimmich continue to dominate with their consistency, while young players like João Neves and Ryan Gravenberch are making their names with breakout performances.

But the question is, how do you rank these modern-day powerhouses? Is it through tackles completed? Trophies won? Or their ability to stun 60k roaring fans with one tackle? We, at Sportsdunia, compiled a list for you all, after carefully examining their impact, defensive ability, influences, & versatility. Now, without wasting any time, let’s take a look at our list of the 10 best defensive midfielders in 2025:

Criteria For Ranking the World’s Best Defensive Midfielders

Impact & Influence: The primary factor we considered while compiling this list of the world’s best defensive midfielders was to look at these players’ impact & influence on their respective teams.

Defensive Ability: The second parameter considered for determining the best defensive midfielders was to glance at their defensive mastery, such as tackles, interceptions, and positional awareness.

Versatility: The third factor that we looked at is their adaptability or versatility to play across different systems and positions.

Passing Ability: The fourth parameter considered while making the list of the best defensive midfielders was their passing ability. How well a player passes the ball under serious pressure, his play-making ability, and passing accuracy.

Trophies Won: The last factor considered while ranking the best defensive midfielders was trophies won this season by a player and how impactful his performance has been in the process.

Top 10 Best Defensive Midfielders in the World

10. Sandro Tonali (Newcastle United)

After overcoming a betting ban, Sandro Tonali has reinvented himself as Newcastle United’s midfield anchor. Always compared to Andrea Pirlo’s vision and composure under pressure, he has finally done justice to it. His defensive abilities and positional awareness allow Bruno Guimaraes to go more into attacking areas. The Italian defensive midfielder excels in breaking up plays, and his rapid passes to break opposition lines are as good as his defense.

The former AC Milan midfielder, once criticized for his inconsistency, now, combined with his defensive grit and creative flair, has shut all his critics. His partnership with Joelinton and Guimaraes has done wonders for the club; these three in midfield form one of the most balanced trios in the Premier League this season.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
32	3	2	1.82	1.19	1.27

9. Joao Neves (Paris Saint-Germain)

Nobody thought that a 20-year-old defensive midfielder would take Ligue 1 by storm. João Neves joined Paris Saint-Germain from Benfica for €60 million. Despite having a 5’9” frame, Neves dominated aerial duels, which ranks him among Europe’s top tacklers. His ability to balance defensive duties with attacking flair makes him a modern hybrid.

This season, João has impressed everyone with his fearless dribbling and playmaking ability. The Portuguese-born midfielder has made 27 appearances this season, assisting eight times and scoring thrice as well. His tenure with Paris Saint-Germain is off to a brilliant start, especially his performance against Liverpool in the UEFA Champions League.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
27	3	8	3.18	1.10	1.10

8. Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle United)

Though Bruno is often deployed at a more conventional number 8 position, Guimaraes has also contributed as a defensive midfielder. His ability to shield defense while driving forward makes him one of the best defensive midfielders in 2025. His performance against Manchester United in the Premier League, scoring a goal and creating a few key plays for his team.

Many fans and pundits argue that he’s more attack-minded for a pure defensive midfielder, but things are working for him, so why not? Right? If Sandro’s the anchor of Newcastle, then Bruno is the glue holding the team together.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
34	4	6	2.19	0.83	1.27

Also Read: Ranking the 10 Best Wingers in the World | 2025

7. Moises Caicedo (Chelsea)

Many criticized Chelsea for spending 115 million, while things weren’t looking good for the club. But all the critics were put to the dust as Moises Caicedo silenced all doubters with his performances. His recovery speed and physicality are unmatched in the league.

Under Enzo Maresca, Caicedo has refined his defensive abilities, enabling the Blues’ attackers to flourish. While he still hasn’t matched his form and consistency, his recent performance suggests he’s on the right path. Although Chelsea has struggled in the Premier League, Caicedo hasn’t; he has been one of the best players for the Blues and is one of the best defensive midfielders in the world in 2025.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
34	1	2	3.01	1.41	1.41

6. Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad)

Martin Zubimendi’s brilliance lies in his consistency, calmness under pressure, and tactical genius. He has evolved into one of Europe’s most tactically masterminded CDMs. The Spanish midfielder is a mix of Sergio Busquets’ composure and Xabi Alonso’s positional intelligence.

This season, despite Real Sociedad’s struggle in La Liga, Zubimendi has cemented himself as one of the best defensive midfielders. His ability to read the game and shield his teammates is unmatched. Martin has been consistently performing for Real Sociedad in the La Liga this season, he’s averaging 2.29 tackles and 2.53 clearances per game.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
31	2	1	2.29	1.25	2.53

5. Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid)

Aurelien Tchouameni, one of the most versatile defensive midfielders on our list. Last season, his transition from midfield to centre back showcased his adaptability. Now that he’s back at his preferred position, he’s doing great for Real Madrid. His long range passing and ability to break crucial plays have been vital for Los Blancos.

The Frenchman has already gotten the ‘next Makelele’ tag, undermining his technical and defensive abilities. The 25-year-old currently possesses a 93% passing accuracy with 1.56 tackles (won) per game for Real Madrid this season, making him one of the best defensive midfielders. His stats might not convey the whole story or the impact he provides in the field with off-ball movements, field coverage, and more.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
28	0	0	1.56	1.60	2.63

4. Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)

Josha Kimmich is known for his versatility to play in different positions with the same intensity and flair. Under Vincent Kompany, he gained success in a new position for his team. The German midfielder is crafting play with 90% pass accuracy and 2-3 key passes per game as a holding midfielder.

The 30-year-old, once criticized for not having a natural playing position, but look at him now as he represents the complete midfielder. This season, he has been in great form for Bayern in the Bundesliga, having 116 passes attempted with 89% accuracy. Joshua’s ability to create goal scoring opportunities makes him one of the best defensive midfielders in the world, and is averaging 2.6 key passes per game.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
30	2	5	1.54	0.77	1.01

Also Read: Ranking the 10 Best Right Backs in the World: From Achraf Hakimi To Malo Gusto

3. Declan Rice (Arsenal)

Declan Rice joined Arsenal for a price tag of 105 million from West Ham United. Many criticize the Gunners for spending so much on a box-to-box midfielder. But look at this guy now, he has been transformative for Arsenal this season, be it tackles or passes, he’s doing everything to ensure his team’s victory.

For all those doubting his quality, did you see his performance against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League quarter final. Scoring two magnificent free-kicks and dictating the flow of the game. Although Arsenal failed to get their hands on the English Premier League trophy this season, he has been one of the key players in their pursuit of the UEFA Champions League trophy.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
32	2	7	1.71	0.84	1.54

2. Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool)

What an absolute baller Ryan Gravenberch has been for Arne Slot and Liverpool this season. Ryan Gravenberch shifted to the number 6 role for the Reds, where he provided cover for Mac Allister to go into more attacking areas. The Dutch midfielder currently has a passing accuracy of 89% and averages 2 tackles per game for the Reds.

The 22-year-old has regained his form and composure in the midfield. He has cemented his place as one of the mainstays in Liverpool’s midfield. He is the only midfielder in the EPL to record over 40 tackles and 40 interceptions. Impressive. Right? Even Arne Slot heaped praises on his star midfielder, making him one of the best defensive midfielders in the world.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
34	0	4	2.00	1.76	1.73

1. Rodri (Manchester City)

Talk about impact. Well, ask Man City fans how much they missed their star player this season. The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner missed more than 50 games in the 2024-25 season due to an ACL injury. Many of you must be wondering why Rodri is placed so high in our list when he wasn’t even playing. Right? Well, look at how much Manchester City struggled this season, not just in the Premier League but also in the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and even in the UEFA Champions League.

The 28-year-old has been the center of Pep Guardiola’s system to dominate possession and build up plays. Whenever he’s on the pitch, City don’t lose (not always though), which shows his quality and skills.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
1	–	–	–	–	–

List of 10 Best Defensive Midfielders in the World

Rank	Player Name	Club	Passing Accuracy	Tackles	Clearances	Trophies Won
1	Rodri	Man City	–	–	–	0
2	Ryan Gravenberch	Liverpool	89.2	2.00	1.73	1
3	Declan Rice	Arsenal	82.7	1.71	1.54	0
4	Joshua Kimmich	Bayern Munich	92.9	1.54	1.01	0
5	Aurelien Tchouameni	Real Madrid	92.9	1.56	2.93	2
6	Martin Zubimendi	Real Sociedad	84.4	2.29	2.53	0
7	Moises Caicedo	Chelsea	90.1	3.01	1.41	0
8	Bruno Guimaraes	Newcastle United	83.4	2.19	1.27	1
9	Joao Neves	Paris Saint-Germain	92.2	3.18	1.10	2
10	Sandro Tonali	Newcastle United	85.5	1.82	1.27	1

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Best Young Defensive Midfielders: Emerging Talents to Watch

5. Arthur Vermeeren

Arthur Vermeeren is having a great season with RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga. The 20-year-old Belgian midfielder has made 25 appearances for his club and has assisted twice. His performance against Wolfsburg was impressive, where he averaged 98% pass accuracy. The Belgian midfielder also created two key opportunities, and his defensive performance was as impressive as his attacking.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
25	0	2	1.95	1.43	1.36

4. Kobbie Mainoo

Kobbie Mainoo is one of the most versatile defensive midfielders on our list. His impactful short cameo during the late comeback victory against Lyon in the UEFA Europa League, scoring a goal in the dying minutes of the game, highlights his abilities and mentality.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
21	0	0	2.48	1.21	0.44

3. Marc Casado

Marc Casado is a highly versatile player who plays for FC Barcelona. His performance against Real Sociedad, scoring one goal and 12 defensive actions ( 2 interceptions, 4 recoveries, & 4 tackles), showcased his technicality and skills. He is averaging 3 tackles, 1 interception, and 1.28 clearances per game for the Blaugrana.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
23	1	3	3.09	1.00	1.28

2. Archie Gray

Archie Gray has been making a name for himself, his composure on the ball, calmness, and passing ability. His game reading ability and have ability to play in different positions. The 19-year-old midfielder’s ability to craft and initiate attacks makes him one of the best young defensive midfielders.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
24	0	0	0.78	0.78	2.52

1. Joao Neves

Although we have already included him in our top 10 best defensive midfielders list above, we can’t conclude our list of young best defensive midfielders without him. João Neves has completely shocked everyone this season with his consistency and composure to perform well against big teams.

Appearances	Goals	Assists	Tackles	Interceptions	Clearances
27	3	8	3.18	1.10	1.10

Top 5 Best Young Defensive Midfielders

Rank	Player Name	Club	Age
1	Joao Neves	Paris Saint-Germain	20
2	Archie Gray	Tottenham Hotspur	19
3	Marc Casado	Barcelona	21
4	Kobbie Mainoo	Man United	20
5	Arthur Vermeeren	RB Leipzig	20

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