Top 5 defensive midfielders in the world this season (2020/21)

#3 Fabinho, Liverpool

Fabinho in action for Liverpool

Liverpool have not enjoyed the best of seasons so far, with injuries to key players resulting in poor performances, especially in the league.

Regarded as one of the best defensive midfielders in the league, Fabinho was forced to deputize at centre-back, where he did well. However, it became evident quickly that Liverpool were missing the Brazil international's contributions in midfield.

Ian Wright on Thiago/Fabinho:"To see Fabinho and Thiago in the midfield is something he would have been dreaming of Jurgen Klopp and now it’s finally happening. Hopefully that will be enough to trigger the front guys.” #awlfc [liverpool echo] pic.twitter.com/nXpHSjkW2g

— Anfield Watch (@AnfieldWatch) March 26, 2021

The 27-year-old has made 30 appearances in all competitions for Liverpool this season. Fabinho continues to be a defensive behemoth and is a good passer. A sustained run in the defensive midfield position for the Monaco man will help Jurgen Klopp's side a lot in the business end of the season.

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#2 Casemiro, Real Madrid

Casemiro has consistently impressed for Real Madrid

Not much remains to be said about Casemiro, who is seen by many as the best defensive midfielder in world football.

The Brazil international joined Real Madrid from Sao Paulo in 2013 for £5 million. He has formed a formidable midfield triangle with Luka Modric and Toni Kroos since then, with all three midfielders playing key roles in Real Madrid's UEFA Champions League successes over the years.

The 29-year-old shields the defense well, reducing Modric's and Kroos' defensive workload. Casemiro has made 32 appearances in all competitions so far, scoring six goals.

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#1 Joshua Kimmich, Bayern Munich

Joshua Kimmich is regarded as one of the best players in the world

Being a world-class player in a particular position is no mean feat; Bayern Munich's Joshua Kimmich is arguably the only player in the world who is world-class in two different positions.

It is surprising to see how easily Bayern Munich and Germany have found a replacement for a legend like Philipp Lahm. Kimmich is capable of operating as a defensive midfielder and a right-back (like Lahm), and manages to do so without missing a step.

🗣️ Joshua Kimmich: "My role model was always Xavi Hernández. He had an eye for the game, passing and technique. He was always trying to put others in the limelight - that's what I want to do too."#UCL pic.twitter.com/Fy0S3KVx52

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) March 31, 2021

The 26-year-old has predominantly operated as a defensive midfielder this season and has done so with aplomb. His passing ability and tenacity have been widely praised, with many regarding him as one of the best footballers in the world.

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