Top 5 defensive midfielders in the world currently

#2. Casemiro (Real Madrid)

Casemiro has grown as a player at Real Madrid

The Brazilian signed for Real Madrid way back in 2013 but wasn’t able to cement a starting spot straightaway. However, after catching the eye at Porto in a loan spell, Casemiro has forged his place in stone at Real Madrid.

Initially, the midfielder was panned by the Madrid media for his propensity to be conservative with the ball. Yet, in recent years, the Brazilian has expanded his horizons and he looks a lot more accomplished on the ball.

In the 2018-19 league season, he averages more than four long balls per game to go with his tally of 55.2 passes per game.

Although he may have become more of a threat with the ball in the last year and a half, there is no denying that his strongest suit remains shielding the back four from attacks.

With an innate ability to sense danger, Casemiro is very seldom caught out of position and is on hand to thwart the opposition’s advances.

Real Madrid possess several Galacticos in their ranks, yet Casemiro could be the most important of them all. And for a defensive midfielder, that’s as high as praise gets.

Thus, he takes the runner up spot on our list.