Top 10 Defensive Midfielders in the World in 2023 ❯ escored

The best defensive midfielders in the world are a far cry from what we saw two decades ago. According to the fiery Sky Sports pundit Roy Keane, midfielders in the '90s were expected to both attack and tackle. However, times have changed since then, and midfielders now have specialized roles. This list features the destroyers and the heartbeat of their teams – players responsible for breaking down opposition attacks and orchestrating counter-attacks.

As with all our position-based rankings, we regularly update our list to reflect current form. So, if your favorite regista is lower on this list than expected, it might be due to recent injuries or a dip in form. Let's dive into the top 10 defensive midfielders in the world right now.

10. Manuel Ugarte

TOKYO, JAPAN – AUGUST 1: Manuel Ugarte of PSG in action during the pre-season friendly match between Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and FC Internazionale Milano at the Japan National Stadium on August 1, 2023 in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo by Jean Catuffe/Getty Images)

Manuel Ugarte, who shone for Sporting in the Portuguese Primeira Liga, became one of the most sought-after footballers in the summer. He made a move to star-studded Paris Saint-Germain and embodies the classic South American midfielder: tenacious, energetic, and always in the right place. While Ugarte used to be part of a double pivot at Sporting, Luis Enrique has deployed him as a lone No.6 at PSG. He's handling the transition well and appears set to remain a mainstay on this list for years to come.

9. Aurelien Tchouameni

BARCELONA, SPAIN – OCTOBER 28: Aurelien Tchouameni of Real Madrid celebrates after the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on October 28, 2023 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Real Madrid splurged on French midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni to usher in a new era away from Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, and Casemiro. While neither Tchouameni nor Eduardo Camavinga has completely replaced the old guard, Tchouameni's positional discipline, physicality, and high football IQ have earned him a spot in the regular lineup for both Real Madrid and France.

8. Moises Caicedo

LONDON, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 06: Moises Caicedo of Chelsea celebrates scoring a goal that was later ruled out for offside during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea FC at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 06, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)

Moises Caicedo, after a somewhat shaky start at Chelsea, has settled into the Premier League. He combines natural ball-winning ability with technical prowess and a deep understanding of the game. Caicedo is forming a strong partnership with Enzo Fernandez and is impressing with his ability to cover ground and make vital contributions.

7. Eduardo Camavinga

BARCELONA, SPAIN – OCTOBER 28: Eduardo Camavinga of Real Madrid run with the ball during the LaLiga EA Sports match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid CF at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys on October 28, 2023 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Eduardo Camavinga's versatility makes him an asset to Real Madrid. Despite playing in various positions, he excels as a defensive midfielder. With his tenacity, technical skills, and incredible work rate, Camavinga is an essential component of Carlo Ancelotti's squad. At just 20 years old, his potential is boundless.

6. Joao Palhinha

LONDON, ENGLAND – AUGUST 29: Joao Palhinha of Fulham celebrates after scoring their team's fourth penalty in the penalty shoot out during the Carabao Cup Second Round match between Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur at Craven Cottage on August 29, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

Joao Palhinha, known for his robust style of play, has brought resilience to Fulham and impressed against top Premier League teams. His contributions have been crucial to Fulham's stability, and he was a significant reason behind the team's steadiness between the top tiers of English football.

5. Yves Bissouma

LONDON, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 27: Yves Bissouma of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur at Selhurst Park on October 27, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

Yves Bissouma has been integral to Tottenham's success under Ange Postecoglou. His ability to control the tempo and win the ball has been instrumental for Spurs, who rely on possession. Bissouma's performance has been outstanding, save for a few minor hiccups, making him a crucial part of the team.

4. Joshua Kimmich

MUNICH, GERMANY – SEPTEMBER 18: Joshua Kimmich of Bayern Munich reacts during the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern Muenchen and FC Schalke 04 at Allianz Arena on September 18, 2020 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Images)

Joshua Kimmich's transformation from a left-back to a defensive midfield general has been remarkable. His passing range and off-ball presence have made him one of the world's most admired players in his position. Kimmich is a key figure in Thomas Tuchel's team and a vital part of Bayern Munich's success.

3. Bruno Guimaraes

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND – OCTOBER 08: Newcastle player Bruno Guimaraes celebrates his second goal by pointing to the club badge during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Brentford FC at St. James Park on October 08, 2022 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Bruno Guimaraes has been a game-changer for Newcastle United. His passion, energy, and dedication have made him a beloved figure at the club. Guimaraes is not just a ball-winner; he's a versatile and dynamic player who has adapted well to the Premier League.

2. Declan Rice

LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 03: Declan Rice of Arsenal celebrates victory after the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Manchester United at Emirates Stadium on September 03, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)

Arsenal's record signing, Declan Rice, has lived up to the high expectations set for him. Transitioning from playing alongside Tomas Soucek to anchoring Arsenal's midfield has been a remarkable journey. Rice's ability to balance both defensive and offensive duties, combined with his leadership qualities, has made him a standout performer for Arsenal.

1. Rodri

Rodri is the linchpin of Manchester City's midfield. His absence from the team directly correlates with their performance. As a defensive midfielder, he is among the best in the world. His secure and precise play has made Manchester City nearly impervious during transitions. Rodri is undoubtedly one of the finest defensive midfielders to ever play under Pep Guardiola.

Top 10 Defensive Midfielders in the World in 2023