The 25 Best Defensive Midfielders in World Football – Ranked

June 6, 2025 Oliver Obel

In today’s game, defensive midfielders are among the most important players on the pitch. From controlling the tempo to shielding the backline, these specialists play a vital role in every top team. Based on current form and overall impact, here are the 25 best holding midfielders in the world right now.

25. Manuel Ugarte

After a short-lived spell at PSG, Ugarte has now joined Manchester United with hopes of revitalizing his career. His aggressive style and energy could be a key asset in the Premier League.

24. Konrad Laimer

Now at Bayern Munich, Laimer brings versatility and work rate to the Bavarian midfield. Often playing both in midfield and at right-back, he remains a vital utility player for club and country.

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23. Morten Hjulmand

Hjulmand’s rise at Sporting CP has not gone unnoticed. The Danish midfielder combines tactical intelligence with consistent performances and could soon earn a major transfer.

22. Boubacar Kamara

Kamara has quietly been a pillar for Aston Villa under Unai Emery. Despite a recent injury, his defensive nous and calm presence remain crucial to their structure.

21. N’Golo Kante

Though now in Saudi Arabia, Kante proved at Euro 2024 that he’s still among the elite. His tireless running and anticipation remain unmatched even at this stage of his career.

20. Casemiro

Once the heartbeat of Real Madrid’s midfield, Casemiro has struggled recently at Manchester United. Despite his decline, his legacy as a defensive giant remains intact.

19. Aleksandar Pavlovic

Young and already impressive, Pavlovic has slotted seamlessly into Bayern’s midfield. His composure and maturity at such a young age bode well for Germany’s future.

18. Robert Andrich

A late bloomer, Andrich has become integral to Xabi Alonso’s title-winning Leverkusen side. His tough tackling and no-nonsense style suit the Bundesliga perfectly.

17. Youssouf Fofana

Fofana impressed at Monaco and now looks to continue his rise at AC Milan. With a smooth passing style and strong positional sense, he’s ready for the next level.

16. Ryan Gravenberch

Initially inconsistent at Liverpool, Gravenberch has flourished under Arne Slot in a deeper role. His technical ability and positional discipline have impressed this season.

15. Joao Neves

A new face at PSG, Neves has hit the ground running. Despite his size, he’s a fierce competitor with great skill in possession and is set for stardom.

14. Yves Bissouma

Under Ange Postecoglou, Bissouma has rediscovered his best form at Tottenham. Known for his dynamism and strength, he’s been a key part of Spurs’ midfield revival.

13. Amadou Onana

After shining at Everton, Onana has stepped up at Aston Villa. His athleticism and composure in midfield make him one of the most exciting young DMs around.

12. Thomas Partey

Partey has been central to Arsenal’s progress when fit. His blend of technique and physicality gives the Gunners control in the center of the park.

11. Moises Caicedo

Chelsea’s record signing had a tough start but has grown into his role. With energy and a growing confidence on the ball, he looks set to become a leader in midfield.

10. Martin Zubimendi

Loyal to Real Sociedad, Zubimendi is one of the most elegant holding midfielders in Europe. His intelligence and positional awareness make him invaluable for club and country.

9. Vitinha

Vitinha has grown into a top midfielder at PSG, showcasing class and consistency. Whether deeper or more advanced, his ball control and vision are always on display.

8. Hakan Calhanoglu

Hakan Çalhanoğlu — Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com

Now thriving as a deep-lying playmaker at Inter, Calhanoglu combines creativity with defensive responsibility. His transformation has made him one of Serie A’s finest midfielders.

7. Joao Palhinha

João Palhinha — Maciej Rogowski Photo / Shutterstock.com

Palhinha’s tackling and determination made him a standout at Fulham, eventually earning a move to Bayern. His ball-winning skills are among the best in Europe.

6. Granit Xhaka

Xhaka has experienced a stunning career turnaround, becoming a hero at both Arsenal and Leverkusen. His leadership and passing range are vital assets in midfield.

5. Bruno Guimaraes

At Newcastle, Guimaraes has shown he’s one of the most complete midfielders around. Strong in the tackle and dangerous going forward, he’s a true all-rounder.

4. Joshua Kimmich

A mainstay in Bayern’s success, Kimmich is known for his versatility and control. Whether as a right-back or DM, his intelligence and precision are always evident.

3. Aurelien Tchouameni

Aurélien Tchouaméni — Photo: ph.FAB / Shutterstock.com

Tchouameni has justified his hefty fee at Real Madrid. A defensive rock with underrated passing, he’s quickly become a key player in Ancelotti’s side.

2. Declan Rice

Rice’s move to Arsenal has elevated his profile, and rightly so. With top-level defensive instincts and improved attacking play, he’s become one of the world’s best.

1. Rodri

Rodri is the gold standard for a modern defensive midfielder. From scoring in the UCL final to dominating at Euro 2024, he’s in a class of his own.