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The Best Current Premier League Defenders--Ranked

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  Published in Food and Wine on Tuesday, October 21st 2025 at 18:34 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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The Premier League’s Elite: Ranking the Top Defenders of the Current Era

The English Premier League has long been celebrated for its tactical battles and aerial duels, and the league’s defensive line is no exception. This year, Sports Illustrated released a comprehensive ranking of the best current defenders in the Premier League, pulling together statistics, impact on the pitch, and the influence these players exert on their teams’ fortunes. The list, a blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars, offers a snapshot of what it takes to be a top defender in one of the world’s most demanding competitions.

1. Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool

Topping the list is the Dutch centre‑back who has become synonymous with Liverpool’s defensive solidity. Van Dijk’s commanding presence, aerial dominance, and composure under pressure have made him a linchpin in the Reds’ back four. Across the 2023–24 season, he recorded 23 clearances per match, 14 interceptions, and contributed a staggering 8 assists—an uncommon tally for a central defender. His leadership on the pitch has been credited with the club’s resilience in tight fixtures, including a 1‑0 victory over Manchester City in the Champions League. Van Dijk’s versatility also allows him to slot in at left back when needed, demonstrating a breadth of skill that sets him apart from peers.

2. Trent Alexander‑Arnold – Liverpool

The right‑back is known for his overlapping runs and precise crossing ability. Alexander‑Arnold’s 2023–24 season saw him deliver 21 assists and 12 goals, an output that made him a threat both defensively and offensively. He averaged 3.5 key passes per game and maintained a 93% tackle success rate. His work rate was crucial in Liverpool’s recent campaign, providing both width and defensive coverage. Notably, his partnership with van Dijk in the centre created a formidable double‑layer defence that opponents struggled to breach.

3. Ruben Dias – Manchester City

A product of Sporting CP’s youth academy, Dias has turned Manchester City’s back four into a cohesive unit. He recorded 26 tackles per match, a 95% clearance rate, and an impressive 80% pass accuracy. His ability to read the game and position himself effectively has often saved the team from conceding in critical moments. Dias’s calmness in high‑pressure situations, especially during Champions League matches, earned him recognition as a key component of Pep Guardiola’s defensive strategy.

4. Harry Maguire – Manchester United

Despite a mixed season, Maguire remains a central figure in United’s defensive line. His 12 goals (mostly headers) and 10 assists underline his aerial threat during set‑pieces. He consistently makes critical tackles and intercepts, providing a steady presence in midfield. Maguire’s experience and leadership were vital in United’s run to the FA Cup final, where he was named Player of the Match in the semi‑final against Chelsea.

5. Andrew Robertson – Liverpool

The Scottish full‑back’s relentless energy has been a hallmark of Liverpool’s attacking style. Robertson logged 90 km over the course of the season, a figure that underscores his relentless pace. He finished with 13 assists and 4 goals, while his defensive contributions included 8 successful tackles and a 92% duelling success rate. Robertson’s role in Liverpool’s counter‑attack has earned him praise from pundits who regard him as the benchmark for modern full‑backs.

6. John Stones – Manchester City

Stones offers a balanced blend of technical skill and physical prowess. His 2023–24 season highlighted an 80% pass completion rate and 14 clearances per game. Stones’ partnership with Dias has fortified City’s central defence, with a combined 27 interceptions and 45 tackles across league fixtures. The 21‑year‑old’s agility allowed him to intercept key passes, often turning defensive lapses into attacking opportunities.

7. Kalvin Phillips – Leeds United

Phillips has re‑emerged as one of the league’s most reliable defensive midfielders. He averaged 5.3 tackles per match and completed 87% of his passing attempts. Phillips’ ability to shield the backline and transition the ball forward provided Leeds with a defensive backbone that proved essential during the team’s successful push for European qualification. His defensive acumen, coupled with the occasional long‑range shot, made him a multi‑dimensional threat.

8. Ben Davies – Manchester City

An underrated figure in the City setup, Davies provides depth and consistency at right‑back. His 2023–24 season showcased 3 goals, 7 assists, and a 90% tackle success rate. Davies’ positional awareness and ability to support the midfield have earned him praise from Guardiola’s tactical team. He played a key role in City’s FA Cup run, contributing to crucial defensive stands in tight matches.

9. Kieran Trippier – Newcastle United

The England international is famed for his crossing and dead‑ball expertise. Trippier delivered 14 assists, 3 goals, and a 92% pass accuracy. His 2023–24 season featured 2,800 metres of sprinting, illustrating his relentless support for the attack. Newcastle’s rise to the top half of the table was attributed to Trippier’s creativity and reliability on the right flank.

10. Aaron Wan‑Bissaka – Manchester United

A product of Arsenal’s youth system, Wan‑Bissaka’s development into a solid full‑back has been a testament to his work ethic. He recorded 18 tackles, 8 interceptions, and 6 assists, while maintaining a 90% pass completion rate. Wan‑Bissaka’s strong tackling, combined with his ability to recover position quickly, has made him a mainstay in United’s defensive lineup.

11–20. Emerging Talent and Supporting Defenders

Beyond the top ten, the list features names such as Phil Jones (Man United), James Tarkowski (Leeds United), and Tom Davies (Leeds United). These players contribute to the depth and resilience of their squads. Phil Jones, for instance, brings experience and tactical versatility to United’s centre‑back position, while Tarkowski’s robust tackling and aerial presence add stability to Leeds’s defence. Tom Davies, meanwhile, offers youthful energy and the potential to evolve into a mainstay at Leeds.

Contextual Links and Player Profiles

The article’s internal links guide readers to player profiles and club pages that further illuminate the defenders’ contributions. For instance, a link to Virgil van Dijk’s profile highlights his height (1.93 m), weight (104 kg), and the clubs he has played for—Ajax, Liverpool, and the Dutch national team. A link to Ruben Dias offers a detailed breakdown of his 2023–24 season statistics: 38 league appearances, 3 goals, and 12 assists. Similarly, links to club pages—such as Liverpool’s official site—provide background on the club’s defensive philosophy under Jurgen Klopp, showcasing how each defender fits into the broader tactical framework.

Conclusion

The Premier League’s defensive landscape is defined by a mix of experience, skill, and sheer determination. Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander‑Arnold anchor Liverpool’s robust defence, while Ruben Dias and John Stones bring stability to Manchester City’s back four. Harry Maguire’s aerial dominance and Andrew Robertson’s explosive runs underline the importance of versatility in modern football. This ranking not only celebrates individual excellence but also underscores how each player’s unique attributes contribute to the collective strength of their clubs. As the 2023–24 season continues, these defenders remain the backbone of some of the league’s most successful teams, consistently turning the tide in crucial moments and setting the standard for defensive play in the Premier League.