It’s undeniable—defensive midfielders are among the most crucial players in football. These ball-winners, anchor men, tough tacklers, and water carriers truly move the needle in every game they play.
This position has produced some of the greatest players in history, including Sergio Busquets, Claude Makélélé, and even Pep Guardiola, one of the best coaches of all time, who played as a defensive midfielder during his career.
The top 10 defensive midfielders below are ranked based on their current form, team success, and individual statistics.
10. Yves Bissouma (Tottenham)
The Tottenham midfielder is currently one of the best in the Premier League. During his time at Brighton, he set the standard for others, earning a £30m move to Spurs.
At 27, Bissouma has thrived under Ange Postecoglou, just as he did at Brighton. The coach seems to have unlocked his full potential. His energy and ability to drive the ball out of deep positions are vital to the Australian boss’s playing style.
9. Martin Zubimendi (Real Sociedad)
Zubimendi, who turned down a move to Liverpool this summer to stay with his boyhood club Real Sociedad, is known for his tireless work ethic, tackling ability, and intelligence on the ball.
He has developed a reputation as one of the best defensive midfielders in world football. His performance in the Euro 2024 final, where he replaced an injured Rodri, was flawless and helped Spain secure the title.
8. Hakan Çalhanoğlu (Inter Milan)
Undoubtedly one of the most underrated players in the world, the influential Turkey captain had another stellar season with Inter Milan last year and continues to impress this season.
Now 30, Çalhanoğlu won Serie A last season, scoring 15 goals and providing three assists from the center of midfield. Initially an attacking midfielder, he’s now excelling as a defensive midfielder, controlling games and dictating the tempo.
7. Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid)
The versatile 21-year-old can play multiple positions, including left-back and central midfield, but his main role is in the heart of midfield, where his energy, dynamism, and passing range allow him to dictate play.
Camavinga is one of the best in his position, despite competition from fellow Frenchman Aurélien Tchouaméni at both Real Madrid and in the national team.
6. Vitinha (Paris Saint-Germain)
Vitinha has officially made it into the 2024 Ballon d’Or nominations. The Portuguese midfielder has emerged as one of the best in his position since Luis Enrique took over at PSG, bringing out the very best in him.
Despite PSG and Portugal not winning the Champions League and Euros, Vitinha was a standout performer in both competitions, cementing his place among the elite.
5. João Palhinha (Bayern Munich)
After a stellar stint at Fulham, Palhinha earned a move to Bayern Munich, where he continues to impress with his ball-winning abilities and physical presence.
He’s a tackling machine—statistically the best in that category. His aggressive nature and ability to disrupt play make him one of the top defensive midfielders in the world.
4. Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid)
As mentioned earlier, Tchouaméni and Camavinga are battling for the same spot in both Real Madrid and the French national team.
Tchouaméni is known for his strong defensive ability and has even played as a centre-back. However, he’s more effective in the defensive midfield role, with his long-range shooting adding another dimension to his game. He’s an invaluable asset for both club and country.
3. Bruno Guimarães (Newcastle United)
The Brazilian midfielder had another fantastic campaign for Newcastle United last season, scoring seven goals and providing 10 assists.
The 26-year-old was a commanding presence in midfield, helping Newcastle navigate the demands of Champions League football. Now a key player for Brazil, Guimarães continues to shine and is one of the best in the game.
2. Declan Rice (Arsenal)
There has been little debate over whether Declan Rice has lived up to his £100m price tag at Arsenal—that’s how good he’s been.
The England international has given the Gunners a new dimension in their pursuit of Manchester City. Rice has developed into a more complete midfielder, driving forward with the ball and adding more goals to his game. His consistency makes him one of the most valuable players in the Premier League.
1. Rodri (Manchester City)
Rodri is not only a contender for the 2024 Ballon d’Or but also holds the record for an unbeaten streak in club football. He scores goals, creates assists, and defends with intelligence.
Rodri is the prototypical defensive midfielder—comfortable breaking up attacks, shielding the ball, and setting the tempo of the game. He’s arguably the best player in the world right now and is the key to Pep Guardiola’s tactical success at Manchester City.
We’ve compiled Rodri’s stats that solidify his case as a top contender for the 2024 Ballon d’Or. His brilliance on the pitch speaks for itself!
