5 greatest tacklers in world football right now

Defenders often do not get the recognition they deserve. A vital interception or an important block does not garner as much attention as a match-winning goal.

However, there are certain actions that can propel defenders into the limelight. A perfectly executed tackle or a goal-line clearance, for instance. It is easier to gauge the importance of these actions.

Tackling, in particular, is an art that cannot be perfected by every player. It requires excellent timing and tremendous belief, as one small error can lead to a penalty or a red card.

We look at the 5 greatest tacklers in world football right now.

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#5 Fabinho (Liverpool)

Real Madrid v Liverpool FC - UEFA Champions League Quarter Final: Leg One

Arguably the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League, Fabinho has been an integral part of Liverpool's success under Jurgen Klopp.

Liverpool surprised many when they announced Fabinho's acquisition from AS Monaco in 2018 for £40.5 million. The Brazil international had excelled in France, but few expected Liverpool to sign him. Fabinho arrived with a big reputation and, after a slow start to his Liverpool career, has flourished for the club.

Fabinho has made 134 appearances in all competitions for the club, and has won the Premier League and the Champions League. The 28-year old was often utilized as a centre-back last season and impressed with his performances. Fabinho is a smart operator with excellent reading of the game and physical attributes.

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#4 Casemiro (Real Madrid)

Real Madrid v Chelsea - UEFA Champions League Semi Final: Leg One

The best defensive midfielder in the world, Casemiro is the main reason Fabinho's appearances for Brazil have been limited.

Casemiro joined Real Madrid in 2013 from Sao Paulo for £5.4 million, but made his name during a loan spell with Porto. The Brazilian became a Real Madrid first-team member during the 2015-16 season and has not looked back since. He has made 301 appearances for the club in all competitions, scoring 30 goals and providing 25 assists.

The 29-year old is a physical player who does not shy away from the dirty work. Casemiro's presence has arguably elevated the level of Luka Modric and Toni Kroos. He has won four Champions League trophies and two La Liga titles with Los Blancos.

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#3 Aaron Wan-Bissaka (Manchester United)

Manchester United v Atalanta: Group F - UEFA Champions League

Aaron Wan-Bissaka is by no means a complete right-back. His attacking play leaves a lot to be desired, and he has been heavily criticized for his lack of contribution going forward.

However, he is one of the best one-on-one defenders in the Premier League. Wan-Bissaka joined Manchester United from Crystal Palace in 2019 for £49.5 million, having already made his name as a superb tackler. His long legs certainly helped, and many of his tackles have been beautiful to watch.

The 23-year old remains an incredibly limited right-back, however, with his defensive positioning under scrutiny. Wan-Bissaka has made 114 appearances in all competitions for Manchester United, scoring two goals and providing 10 assists.

There has been slight improvement in his play since the move, but much more is expected of a player for whom Manchester United paid nearly £50 million.

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#2 N'Golo Kante (Chelsea)

Chelsea v Aston Villa - Carabao Cup Third Round

One of the best midfielders in world football, N'Golo Kante has been a revelation at Chelsea. The diminutive midfielder is adored by football fans across the world.

Kante emerged as an exciting talent during his time with Leicester City as he helped the club win the Premier League in 2016. Chelsea did well to sign him that year for £32 million. The France international has proved to be a world-class addition to Chelsea's midfield.

Full of energy and dynamism, Kante is renowned for his ball-winning ability. The 30-year old, for a brief period of time, was in contention to win the Ballon d'Or this time around. He played an important role in Chelsea's Champions League triumph last season.

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#1 Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City)

Leicester City v Wolverhampton Wanderers - Premier League

Wilfred Ndidi continues to be linked with a move away from Leicester City in every transfer window, but a move never fails to materialise.

Ndidi has been a sensational player for the Foxes. A top-quality defensive midfielder, the Nigeria international has combined his physical capabilities with strong defensive nous. Ndidi joined Leicester City from Genk in 2017 for nearly £16 million, and will surely fetch his current club a big profit if he is sold.

Ndidi continues to develop his game, with noticeable improvement in his ability on the ball and passing in recent seasons. Potential suitors will, however, note that he appears to be increasingly prone to knocks and injuries.

The 24-year old has been persistently linked with a move away from Leicester City for some time now. Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City have all been suggested as potential destinations.

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