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The role of the traditional defensive midfielder hasn't changed much over the last few decades, but they're certainly appreciated more these days.
Claude Makelele, a legendary defensive midfielder, was once the undisputed backbone of a Real Madrid side that won seven titles in three years. However, the star's brilliance was subtle, almost unnoticed, and many believed he wasn't really useful to the team in any way.
When Makelele asked for a raise, Florentino Perez dismissed the request, publicly laughed it off, and quickly shipped off the legend to Chelsea, claiming "Makelele would not be missed". For three straight seasons, Real Madrid's great attack sputtered, and the side did not win a single trophy. The defensive midfielder's role was undermined by Perez, and Los Blancos paid for it with a barren three years.
The best defensive midfielders are efficient midfield engines. They cover large areas consistently, recycle possession during attacks, chase down attackers during defense, and anticipate the game so they can shut down attacks and intercept passes.
Here's a look at five of the very best defensive midfielders currently in world football:
#5 Declan Rice | West Ham
The West Ham star is highly rated for his ability to cover a lot of ground for the Hammers. Last season, Declan Rice covered an astonishing 324.6 kilometers in the Premier League, which put him in fourth place. The 22-year-old's ability on the ball has also improved dramatically in recent seasons, and England manager Gareth Southgate has taken note: Rice started every game at the recent Euros for the Three Lions, who went all the way to the final.
Rice's efficiency in David Moyes' squad has been key to West Ham's current presence in continental football, as well as their strong Premier League position. The star defensive midfielder has played 15 games for the Hammers this season, and he's averaging nearly three tackles and two interceptions per game. His passing skills and penetration have also improved, with the star picking up three assists in the Premier League this season.
#4 Casemiro | Real Madrid
Although Real Madrid have had a rigorous change of personnel since Cristiano Ronaldo left the club, the cog in the midfield has largely remained the same: Casemiro. The work-horse has been a consistent feature at the Santiago Bernabeu, guiding the side to four Champions League trophies and two La Liga titles since he joined the club in 2013.
Casemiro's efficiency in midfield provides balance to the whole team. He helps the defense and aids the attack whenever he can get forward. The star is known for his tackling qualities, and this season has seen him average three tackles per game in La Liga. His offensive output improved during Zinedine Zidane's time at the club, and Madridistas will be hopeful that Casemiro can keep improving under Carlo Ancelotti.
#3 Rodri | Manchester City
When Rodri's style of play catapulted him into the limelight at the Wanda Metropolitano, Pep Guardiola quickly came calling and the star has continued to impress at the Etihad Stadium. His massive work-rate and relentless ability to recycle possession for Cityzens while anticipating the game to thwart counter attacks has been world-class.
In nine Premier League games this season, the star has averaged 82 passes per game. His defensive work-rate in the Champions League has seen him make three tackles and two interceptions per game. Rodri was key to Manchester City's recent Premier League title win, as well as their back-to-back League Cups.
#2 Fabinho | Liverpool
Jurgen Klopp's Liverpool have gone from being a top-six side to strong title contenders and European champions. While many of the accolades have gone to goalkeeper Alisson, defender Virgil van Dijk and marksman Mohamed Salah, Fabinho has been the battery in Liverpool's rise to the top. Since joining the side in 2018, the Brazilian international has guided the Reds to three major trophies.
Because of Liverpool's overlapping full-backs, Fabinho is left to hold down the defensive fort alongside the two centre-halves. His ability to read the game and anticipate passes usually means that the Reds regain and recycle possession more than most of their opponents. Fabinho has managed nearly four tackles and two interceptions per game in the Champions League this season.
#1 Jorginho | Chelsea
When Jorginho was shortlisted for the Ballon d'Or, it hardly came as a surprise to many. The star had guided Chelsea to European domination in the Champions League, and was part of the Italy side that won the Euro. Notably seen as the Blues' conductor, UEFA Men's Player of the Year Jorginho is a defensive midfield maestro who efficiently wins the ball and recycles possession from deep.
Last season, Jorginho ranked first in tackles and second in interceptions in the Champions League. He has continued in similar fashion this season, winning over three tackles and two interceptions per game. His presence in Italy's Euro win was evident as the star won nearly four interceptions per game across seven games. While he may not win the Ballon d'Or this November, his presence on the list is a clear testament to his brilliance in midfield.
Poll : Is Casemiro the best defensive midfielder in world football right now?
Yes
No
93 votes
