Fewest goals conceded per game in 2025/26: Arsenal lead europe’s defensive rankings

In a season where attacking flair often dominates headlines, defense has taken center stage across Europe’s top five leagues. From the Premier League to Serie A, several clubs have stood out for their ability to keep things tight at the back, conceding remarkably few goals per game. According to data from Transfermarkt, Arsenal sit comfortably at the top of the pile — a testament to their discipline, structure, and consistency. Let’s take a look at the ten most defensively solid teams in Europe so far in the 2025/26 campaign, ranked from tenth to first.

10. Aston Villa (0.82 goals per game)

Aston Villa have quietly built one of the most resilient backlines in England this season. Unai Emery’s men have blended tactical discipline with an intense work rate, making Villa Park a fortress. Despite not being title favorites, their ability to limit opponents’ chances has been crucial in maintaining a top-half push. The combination of Emi Martínez’s leadership and a well-drilled defense has ensured Villa’s defensive numbers rival some of Europe’s elite.

9. FC Bayern Munich (0.82 goals per game)

Bayern’s defensive solidity has returned after a turbulent previous season. The arrival of new defensive reinforcements has tightened their structure, allowing them to control matches with more authority. Although they’ve conceded slightly more in high-intensity Bundesliga fixtures, their overall consistency remains impressive. With Manuel Neuer back in form and the team regaining its trademark organization, Bayern continue to be one of the toughest sides to break down in Europe.

8. Lyon (0.80 goals per game)

Lyon have surprised many this season with their defensive resurgence under new management. Once known for their attacking flair, the French side has shifted focus to stability and tactical discipline. Their young defenders have matured quickly, forming a strong unit that frustrates even the most creative Ligue 1 attackers. This newfound solidity has been the backbone of their European ambitions.

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7. Bologna (0.78 goals per game)

Thiago Motta’s philosophy continues to shine through at Bologna, where tactical intelligence and compact structure define their play. The Italian side has become one of Serie A’s most difficult teams to score against. Goalkeeper Łukasz Skorupski and his defense have shown great chemistry, rarely allowing clear-cut chances. Their consistency at the back could make Bologna a dark horse for European qualification this year.

6. Sunderland (0.78 goals per game)

Sunderland’s inclusion on this list is one of the most unexpected stories of the season. Back in the Premier League, they’ve defied the odds with a remarkable defensive record. Their young core has adapted to top-flight football with maturity beyond their years. It’s a team built on unity and grit — and their 0.78 goals conceded per game proves they can compete with the best defensively.

5. Manchester City (0.73 goals per game)

While Manchester City’s attacking brilliance is often the focus, their defensive control remains elite. Pep Guardiola’s men press relentlessly and dominate possession, often preventing teams from even getting near their goal. Rúben Dias and Josko Gvardiol have been central to that stability, combining composure with physical strength. Despite some high-tempo encounters, City continue to showcase balance in all phases of play.

4. Como (0.67 goals per game)

Como’s rise in Serie A has been nothing short of remarkable. The newly promoted side has shocked Italy with its defensive discipline, conceding fewer goals than traditional giants like Juventus and Inter. Their compact setup and strong organization have made them extremely tough to break down. Few would have predicted their inclusion among Europe’s top defenses, but Como’s resilience has earned them that honor.

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3. AS Roma (0.56 goals per game)

Under their current setup, Roma have rediscovered the defensive identity that once defined Italian football. The combination of experience and youthful energy has helped them strike the right balance at the back. Goalkeeper Mile Svilar and captain Gianluca Mancini have led a defense that rarely loses focus. Roma’s ability to grind out results has been one of their biggest strengths in both Serie A and Europe.

2. AC Milan (0.44 goals per game)

AC Milan’s defensive record speaks volumes about their structure and discipline this season. With Fikayo Tomori and Malick Thiaw forming a rock-solid partnership, the Rossoneri have built their success from the back. Stefano Pioli’s men look comfortable controlling games and frustrating opponents, showing shades of classic Italian defending. Their numbers make them one of Europe’s toughest sides to score against.

1. Arsenal (0.27 goals per game)

At the summit stands Arsenal — Europe’s defensive benchmark in 2025/26. Mikel Arteta’s side has combined tactical precision with individual brilliance, spearheaded by William Saliba’s dominance at the back. The Gunners have conceded just 0.27 goals per game across all competitions, a figure that highlights their remarkable organization and composure. With this kind of solidity, Arsenal have positioned themselves not only as Premier League title favorites but also as serious contenders on the European stage.

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