william Saliba, Ibrahim Konate, Virgil Van Dijk

The 15 Best Centre-Backs in the Premier League – Ranked from Lowest to Highest

July 29, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

While attackers may grab the headlines, no team succeeds without a commanding centre-back partnership. Based on form, influence, and consistency across last season and the current one, here are the 15 best central defenders in the Premier League today.

15. Sven Botman – Newcastle United

Despite a difficult season plagued by injuries, Botman's debut year remains fresh in the memory. The Dutchman was a calm presence at the back and a key part of Newcastle’s Champions League return.

14. Joachim Andersen – Fulham

Now back at Fulham, Andersen has quickly become the cornerstone of their defence. His long passing range and calm demeanour make him one of the most elegant defenders in the division.

13. Jarrad Branthwaite – Everton

A breakout star last season, Branthwaite has blossomed into one of the most dominant defenders in the league. Everton sorely missed him when he was injured earlier this term.

12. Cristian Romero – Tottenham Hotspur

Romero plays with intensity and fire, which can be both his strength and downfall. Despite disciplinary concerns, his passion and aggressive style have made him a key figure in Spurs’ backline.

11. Marc Guehi – Crystal Palace

Composed and aerially strong, Guehi stood out for England at Euro 2024 and continues to thrive domestically. With Andersen’s departure, he has stepped up as Palace’s defensive leader.

10. Manuel Akanji – Manchester City

Understated yet highly reliable, Akanji's versatility has proven vital for Guardiola. He shifts effortlessly between centre-back and full-back roles and rarely puts a foot wrong.

9. John Stones – Manchester City

A pillar of City's treble-winning side, Stones' ability to step into midfield redefined his role. His absence through injury last season exposed just how vital he is to the team.

8. Jan Paul van Hecke – Brighton & Hove Albion

Brighton's latest defensive gem, Van Hecke combines excellent distribution with clever positioning. His performances have caught attention, and his value continues to rise.

7. Micky van de Ven – Tottenham Hotspur

Micky Van Der Ven — IOIO IMAGES / Shutterstock.com

One of the fastest defenders in the league, Van de Ven's pace and reading of the game allow Spurs to play high-risk football. He's already proving a crucial component under Postecoglou.

6. Rúben Dias – Manchester City

Though not quite at his peak, Dias remains City's defensive general. His leadership, strength in the tackle and consistency keep him indispensable for Guardiola.

5. Nikola Milenkovic – Nottingham Forest

A standout summer signing, Milenkovic has added strength and composure to Forest’s defence. His aerial and ground duel stats place him among the league’s elite.

4. Ibrahima Konaté – Liverpool

Often overshadowed by Van Dijk, Konaté is a monster in one-on-one duels and dominant in the air. His development continues steadily, and he's central to Liverpool's future plans.

3. Gabriel – Arsenal

Gabriel Magalhaes — Ringo Chiu / Shutterstock.com

Powerful, aggressive and commanding, Gabriel was immense last season. His dominance at set-pieces and consistency in the air make him a nightmare for attackers.

2. William Saliba – Arsenal

Saliba has rapidly developed into one of Europe’s finest defenders. Calm on the ball and physically imposing, his absence last season proved just how important he is to Arsenal’s ambitions.

1. Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool

Back to his best, Van Dijk is once again the benchmark for Premier League centre-backs. Commanding, intelligent, and a true leader, he was instrumental in Liverpool's title triumph.