Top FIFA 23 Defensive Midfielders: Ratings & Stats

Hey guys! Are you ready to discover the absolute best defensive midfielders (CDM) in FIFA 23? If you're building your dream team or just a Career Mode powerhouse, having a solid CDM is absolutely essential. These players are the unsung heroes, the midfield maestros who break up plays, win back possession, and shield your defense. So, let's dive into the top-rated CDMs in FIFA 23, complete with their key stats and why they're so effective on the virtual pitch. We're going to break it down so you know exactly who to target to bolster your squad. Think of these guys as the engine room of your team; without them, your attacking flair won't matter much when the goals are flying into your own net! A top CDM not only needs to be a brick wall defensively, but also needs the passing range to kickstart attacks and the stamina to keep going for the full 90 (or even 120!) minutes. Keep reading, because we're about to unveil the crème de la crème of FIFA 23 defensive midfielders!

What Makes a Great Defensive Midfielder in FIFA 23?

Before we jump into the list, let's quickly break down what makes a defensive midfielder truly elite in FIFA 23. It's not just about raw defensive stats; a great CDM needs a blend of attributes to excel. A top-tier CDM should have a high Interceptions stat, ensuring they can read the game and cut out passes before they reach the opposition's attackers. High Tackling stats, both standing and sliding, are crucial for winning back possession cleanly and effectively. Strength and Aggression are vital for physical battles in midfield, allowing them to outmuscle opponents and win crucial challenges. Stamina is non-negotiable; a CDM needs to be able to maintain their intensity throughout the match, covering ground and making tackles until the final whistle. Passing accuracy, especially short passing, is essential for recycling possession and starting attacks from deep. Vision is a bonus, enabling them to pick out more ambitious passes and create opportunities from midfield. Finally, composure under pressure is key, ensuring they don't make mistakes when pressed by the opposition. Essentially, you're looking for a player who is a defensive rock, a reliable distributor, and an engine that keeps running all game long. If you can find a player with all these attributes, you've struck gold!

Top Defensive Midfielders in FIFA 23

Alright, let's get to the main event! Here's a rundown of some of the best defensive midfielders you can find in FIFA 23. These players are game-changers, capable of transforming your team's defensive solidity and overall performance.

1. Casemiro

• Overall Rating: 89
• Key Stats: Interceptions 90, Standing Tackle 92, Sliding Tackle 87, Strength 89, Aggression 92

Casemiro is the quintessential defensive midfielder. His stats speak for themselves – he's an absolute beast in the tackle, incredibly strong, and possesses unmatched aggression. In FIFA 23, he's the player you want shielding your defense, breaking up every attack, and winning back possession with ruthless efficiency. What makes Casemiro so effective is not just his individual stats, but also his positioning and game intelligence. He always seems to be in the right place at the right time, cutting out passes and snuffing out danger before it even materializes. His high aggression means he's not afraid to get stuck in, winning those crucial 50/50 challenges that can turn the tide of a match. Despite not being the quickest, his anticipation and reading of the game more than compensate, allowing him to intercept passes and make tackles before his opponent even realizes what's happening. In short, if you need a player to anchor your midfield and provide a defensive shield, Casemiro is your man. He's a true leader on the pitch, and his presence will undoubtedly elevate your team's defensive performance.

2. N'Golo Kanté

• Overall Rating: 89
• Key Stats: Interceptions 90, Standing Tackle 90, Sliding Tackle 92, Stamina 94, Agility 92

N'Golo Kanté is a legendary figure in the world of football, and his FIFA 23 representation is no different. Known for his tireless energy and incredible tackling ability, Kanté is a force to be reckoned with in midfield. His standout stat is his stamina – he can run all day without tiring, covering every blade of grass and making crucial interceptions. What makes Kanté so special is his ability to win back possession consistently. His high tackling stats, combined with his agility and work rate, mean he can dispossess opponents with ease and launch quick counter-attacks. He's also surprisingly strong for his size, holding his own in physical battles and winning challenges against bigger opponents. While he may not be the most creative passer, his short passing is accurate and reliable, ensuring he can recycle possession and keep the game flowing. Kanté's unwavering determination and relentless pursuit of the ball make him an invaluable asset to any team. He's the kind of player who leads by example, inspiring his teammates with his tireless work ethic and commitment. If you want a CDM who will never stop running and always give 100%, Kanté is the perfect choice.

3. Joshua Kimmich

• Overall Rating: 89
• Key Stats: Vision 92, Short Passing 91, Interceptions 84, Standing Tackle 85

Joshua Kimmich is a more versatile defensive midfielder compared to Casemiro and Kanté, offering exceptional passing range and vision alongside his defensive capabilities. He's not just a destroyer; he's a playmaker from deep, capable of dictating the tempo of the game with his accurate passing and insightful vision. What sets Kimmich apart is his ability to switch play with pinpoint accuracy, launch long balls to the wings, and pick out through balls for his attackers. His high passing stats, combined with his vision, make him a constant threat in possession. Defensively, he's no slouch either. His interceptions and tackling stats are respectable, allowing him to break up plays and win back possession effectively. He may not be as physically imposing as Casemiro or as tirelessly energetic as Kanté, but his intelligence and technical ability more than compensate. Kimmich is the kind of player who can control the midfield with his passing range and tactical awareness. He's a leader on the pitch, always demanding the ball and orchestrating attacks from deep. If you want a CDM who can not only defend but also contribute significantly to your team's attacking play, Kimmich is an excellent choice. He's a complete midfielder who can do it all.

4. Rodri

• Overall Rating: 87
• Key Stats: Interceptions 86, Standing Tackle 85, Short Passing 88, Strength 84

Rodri is another fantastic defensive midfielder in FIFA 23, offering a blend of defensive solidity and passing ability. He's a physically imposing player with high strength and interceptions, making him a tough opponent to get past in midfield. What makes Rodri so effective is his positional awareness and ability to read the game. He consistently intercepts passes and breaks up attacks, providing a solid shield in front of the defense. His high short passing stat ensures he can recycle possession effectively, keeping the ball moving and maintaining control in midfield. While he may not be the most flashy player, his consistency and reliability make him an invaluable asset to any team. He's the kind of player who does the simple things well, providing a solid foundation for his teammates to build upon. Rodri is also surprisingly agile for his size, allowing him to cover ground quickly and make tackles in tight spaces. His strength and aggression mean he can win physical battles and protect the ball effectively. If you're looking for a CDM who is strong, reliable, and tactically astute, Rodri is a great option.

5. Fabinho

• Overall Rating: 85
• Key Stats: Interceptions 87, Standing Tackle 88, Strength 83, Composure 86

Fabinho is a rock-solid defensive midfielder known for his interceptions, tackling, and composure under pressure. He excels at reading the game, cutting out passes, and making crucial tackles to win back possession. What sets Fabinho apart is his calmness and decision-making in high-pressure situations. He rarely makes mistakes, always choosing the right pass or tackle to maintain control of the game. His high composure stat means he can handle pressure from opponents without losing the ball or making rash decisions. Fabinho is also a physically strong player, capable of holding his own in midfield battles and winning challenges against bigger opponents. While he may not be the quickest or most creative player, his defensive intelligence and consistency make him an invaluable asset to any team. He's the kind of player who provides a sense of security and stability in midfield, allowing his teammates to focus on attacking. If you want a CDM who is reliable, composed, and defensively sound, Fabinho is an excellent choice.

How to Choose the Right CDM for Your Team

Choosing the right CDM for your team in FIFA 23 depends on your play style and tactical setup. Do you prefer a purely defensive-minded player who will sit in front of the defense and break up attacks? Or do you want a more versatile CDM who can also contribute to your team's attacking play? If you prioritize defensive solidity and aggression, players like Casemiro or Kanté are excellent choices. They will provide a solid shield in front of your defense and win back possession with relentless efficiency. If you want a CDM who can also dictate the tempo of the game and create opportunities with their passing, Kimmich is a great option. His vision and passing range will allow you to control the midfield and launch quick counter-attacks. Consider your team's overall formation and the strengths of your other players when making your decision. A well-chosen CDM can be the difference between winning and losing, providing the defensive stability and midfield control you need to succeed in FIFA 23. Don't underestimate the importance of this position – it's the foundation upon which your entire team is built!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! A comprehensive look at the best defensive midfielders in FIFA 23. These players are essential for building a successful team, providing the defensive steel and midfield control you need to dominate your opponents. Whether you prefer the aggressive tackling of Casemiro, the tireless energy of Kanté, or the playmaking ability of Kimmich, there's a CDM out there to suit your play style. Remember to consider your team's overall formation and the strengths of your other players when making your decision. A well-chosen CDM can transform your team's performance, providing the defensive stability and midfield control you need to win matches and achieve your goals in FIFA 23. Now go out there and build your dream team with these midfield maestros!