Hey football fanatics! Ever wonder who the absolute best defensive midfielders are in Football Manager 2023? Well, you've come to the right place! We're diving deep into the world of virtual football to unearth the top talents who can shield your backline and dominate the midfield. This guide is your one-stop shop for finding the perfect player to anchor your team, break up play, and launch those crucial counter-attacks. So, grab your virtual clipboard, and let's scout some amazing players! Defensive midfielders, or DMs as they're often called, are the unsung heroes of any successful football team. They're the midfield enforcers, the ones who do the dirty work, winning back possession, breaking up opposition attacks, and providing a solid platform for the more creative players to shine. A top-quality DM can be the difference between a leaky defense and an impenetrable wall. In Football Manager 2023, the importance of a strong DM is as crucial as ever. With the right player in this position, you can control the tempo of the game, stifle your opponents' attacks, and launch your own offensives with precision. But with so many players to choose from, how do you find the best? Don't worry, we've done the hard work for you. We've scoured the databases, analyzed the stats, and considered their potential to bring you the definitive list of the best defensive midfielders in FM23. This isn't just about finding players with high tackling stats. We're looking for well-rounded DMs who can pass accurately, read the game intelligently, and have the mental attributes to thrive under pressure. We'll be looking at their key attributes such as tackling, positioning, work rate, and teamwork, as well as their hidden stats like consistency and professionalism. Whether you're a seasoned FM veteran or a newcomer to the game, this guide will provide you with the insights you need to make informed decisions when signing players and building your dream team. So get ready to discover some hidden gems, potential superstars, and established world-class players who can transform your midfield and lead your team to glory. Let's get started and uncover the best defensive midfielders that FM23 has to offer!

The Criteria for a Top Defensive Midfielder

Alright, guys, before we jump into the player profiles, let's talk about what makes a truly elite defensive midfielder in Football Manager 2023. It's not just about crunching tackles; it's about a combination of key attributes, both physical and mental, that allow a player to excel in this crucial role. First off, tackling is non-negotiable. A top DM needs to be able to win the ball back cleanly and efficiently. Aggression is another important attribute, but it needs to be balanced with good decision-making to avoid reckless fouls. Positioning and anticipation are also vital. A good DM needs to read the game, anticipate where the ball will be, and position themselves to intercept passes and cut off passing lanes. Work rate and stamina are essential for a DM to cover the ground and contribute throughout the entire match. They need to be tireless, always available to support the defense and midfield. Teamwork and determination are also essential attributes, as a DM often acts as the link between the defense and the midfield, orchestrating play and showing leadership on the pitch. Now, let's dive deeper into some specific attributes. Tackling should be high, of course, but it shouldn't come at the cost of giving away too many fouls. Marking ability helps when tracking runners and shutting down key opposition players. Passing is crucial for retaining possession and launching counter-attacks. A DM doesn't need to be a playmaker, but they need to be able to pass the ball accurately and quickly. Decisions and composure are also important to avoid making costly mistakes under pressure. Mental attributes like bravery and concentration allow them to remain focused and composed. Strength and stamina contribute significantly to their performance. Physical attributes also play an important role. Acceleration and agility help DMs to react quickly and cover ground. Balance is important for maintaining stability while making tackles and challenges. Keep in mind that the best DMs are well-rounded players who excel in several areas. They're not just tacklers; they're intelligent players who can read the game, pass effectively, and contribute to the team's overall tactical strategy. Understanding these attributes will help you find the right players for your team and create a balanced squad capable of challenging for trophies.

Top Defensive Midfielders: The Elite Tier

Let's get down to the good stuff and highlight some of the absolute best defensive midfielders you can find in Football Manager 2023. These players are the cream of the crop, the ones who can walk straight into any team and make an immediate impact. We're talking about world-class talent, guys! First up, we have Casemiro. This Real Madrid (and later, Manchester United) veteran is a powerhouse in the middle of the park. His tackling, positioning, and work rate are off the charts, and he's a proven winner with experience at the highest level. If you can afford him, he's an instant upgrade. Next, let's look at Rodri of Manchester City. Rodri is a fantastic passer, positionally sound, and very composed on the ball. He's the perfect DM for a possession-based team, capable of dictating the tempo and breaking up play with ease. His combination of technical ability and tactical awareness makes him one of the best in the game. Then there's Wilfred Ndidi of Leicester City. While he might not be as technically gifted as Rodri, Ndidi is a tackling machine with incredible work rate and stamina. He's always on the go, winning the ball back and covering ground. He is an excellent option for teams with less budget. Joshua Kimmich from Bayern Munich is another top-tier option. While he can play in multiple positions, he excels as a defensive midfielder. Kimmich is an intelligent, versatile player with excellent passing, vision, and tackling ability. His versatility makes him a valuable asset. Declan Rice is one of the brightest young talents in the Premier League. He's a dominant presence in midfield, known for his tackling, interceptions, and leadership qualities. Rice is a great option for any team looking for a long-term solution in the DM position. Signing any of these players will instantly improve your midfield and give your team a solid foundation. These are the players who can win you games single-handedly! But remember, the