Defending in the Prem these days? It’s not just about clattering into strikers or heading the ball into orbit. These centre-backs?
They’re expected to pass like midfielders, anticipate like chess grandmasters, and still body anyone who gets cheeky. Here’s my take on the top defenders this season, ranked backwards for the drama. Because why not?
11. Leny Yoro (Manchester United)
Yoro’s the new kid on the block, and, honestly, sticking him on this list is a bit of a gamble—but a fun one. He’s raw, yeah, but with all the hype around him at United, he could blow up in a big way. Or flop. Who knows? Still, the potential’s ridiculous.
10. Marcos Senesi (AFC Bournemouth)
Poor Senesi, always the bridesmaid, never the bride. People sleep on him because, well, he’s at Bournemouth, but he’s basically the glue in that defense. If Bournemouth don’t leak goals for fun this year, it’ll be because of this guy. Stats nerds will love his numbers—blocks, tackles, the works.
9. Ibrahima Konaté (Liverpool)
Konaté’s one of those guys who doesn’t get enough love. He’s a beast—fast, strong, covers for Van Dijk when things go sideways. Not flashy, but if you actually watch the games, you see how many fires he puts out. Plus, those analytics nerds have him in their top five. Respect.
8. Micky van de Ven (Tottenham)
Van de Ven—now that’s a fun one. Young, rapid, looks like he’s got springs in his legs. Fantasy managers keep an eye on him, hoping he locks down a regular spot. If Spurs actually figure out their defense, he’ll be a big reason why.
7. Omar Alderete (Sunderland)
Hot take alert! Sunderland just came up, and Alderete’s already making noise. Is it a risk to include him here? Sure. But sometimes those promoted teams have a wildcard in the back, and this guy could be it. He’s hungry, unpredictable, and could catch a lot of strikers off guard.
6. Cristian Romero (Tottenham)
You want aggression? Romero’s your man. He’s basically allergic to losing a duel. Might not always look pretty, and sometimes he’s one yellow away from disaster, but he brings the fight. Spurs look way more solid when he’s on it.
5. Joško Gvardiol (Man City)
Gvardiol is, well, built different. He can play left-back or centre-back, bombs forward, and even scores a few. Tied for most goals as a defender last season! If Pep gets creative, you’ll see even more of him popping up in weird spots. The versatility is wild.
4. Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace)
Guéhi keeps getting better, and Palace are lucky to have him. He’s not at one of the glam clubs, but he’s rock solid—never really has a stinker. Fantasy players know he’s a secret weapon. Consistency is his thing.
3. Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
Still the gold standard, even if he’s pushing on in years. Reads the game better than anyone, barely breaks a sweat. If you’re building a defense from scratch, you’d want him in there. Plus, fantasy managers love him for those guaranteed minutes.
2. William Saliba (Arsenal)
Saliba’s rise has been nuts. Unshakeable in duels, smooth as you like with the ball, and just oozes calm. He’s got that aura—like, “You’re not getting past me, mate.” Arsenal’s future and present, honestly.
1. Gabriel (Arsenal)
And at the top? Gabriel. Might not grab headlines, but dude is a machine. Wins every header, never shirks a challenge, and leads by example.
Arsenal’s defense would be chaos without him. Not flashy, just brutally effective—a proper old-school centre-back with a modern twist. The rock at the back. Give him his flowers.
