Top Young Defensive Midfielders In FM23

Hey football fanatics! Ever find yourself knee-deep in a Football Manager 2023 save, desperately seeking that midfield anchor to solidify your team? Well, you're in luck! Today, we're diving deep into the world of FM23's best young defensive midfielders. Finding a solid defensive midfielder (DM) is like striking gold – they shield the back four, break up play, and often provide that crucial link between defense and attack. In this article, we'll scout out some of the top young talents you should be keeping an eye on, the hidden gems, and the absolute must-buys to bolster your squad. Get ready to take notes, because we're about to unearth some serious talent that can dominate the midfield for years to come. Let's get started, shall we?

Why Defensive Midfielders Matter in FM23

Alright, before we get to the names, let's chat about why defensive midfielders are so incredibly vital in FM23. Think of them as the unsung heroes of your team. While strikers get the glory and wingers dazzle with pace, a quality DM is the backbone of your defensive setup. They're the ones winning the ball back, breaking up opposition attacks, and generally making your defense look a whole lot better.

In FM23, a good DM can:

• Shield the defense: They position themselves intelligently to intercept passes and block shots, protecting your center-backs.
• Win possession: They're skilled at tackling, intercepting, and winning aerial duels, giving your team more of the ball.
• Disrupt opposition attacks: By breaking up play, they prevent the other team from building momentum and creating chances.
• Provide a passing outlet: They can receive the ball from the defense and quickly distribute it to your midfielders or forwards, initiating counter-attacks.

So, essentially, a top-notch DM is the midfield general, the player who allows your more attacking players to shine. Without them, your defense can be exposed, and your team's overall performance will suffer. That's why snapping up these young talents early in your FM23 saves is such a smart move. They can grow into world-class players and become the cornerstone of your team for a decade or more. Investing in the right DM is an investment in your team's future success, guys!

Key Attributes to Look For

When scouting for the best young defensive midfielders in FM23, it's crucial to know which attributes to prioritize. These stats will define how effective a DM is on the pitch. Here’s a breakdown of the most important ones:

• Tackling: This is a no-brainer. A DM needs to be able to win the ball cleanly and effectively. The higher the tackling attribute, the more successful they'll be in dispossessing opponents.
• Marking: Being able to mark opponents tightly prevents them from getting into dangerous positions and making runs into the box. A high marking stat is essential for a DM.
• Positioning: This attribute determines how well a player anticipates where they need to be to intercept passes and be in the right place at the right time. Excellent positioning helps a DM cut off passing lanes and win the ball back.
• Work Rate: A DM needs to be tireless, covering ground and constantly getting involved in the game. A high work rate means they will be more active in tackling, pressing, and supporting the team.
• Stamina: This is linked to work rate, ensuring they can maintain their high level of activity throughout the entire match. If their stamina is low, they'll tire quickly, becoming less effective as the game goes on.
• Strength: Being able to hold off opponents and win physical battles is critical for a DM. A strong DM will be tough to dispossess.
• Anticipation: This attribute impacts how well the player predicts the movements of other players, helping them make intelligent decisions on the field, such as intercepting passes or moving into space.
• Decisions: A DM must make quick and smart choices in crucial moments. High decisions mean they will choose the best options, such as when to tackle, pass, or retain possession.
• Aggression: This affects how often a player gets stuck into tackles and challenges. A higher aggression might lead to more yellow cards but can also result in more ball-winning.

Looking at these attributes, along with the player's personality and hidden attributes, gives you a comprehensive understanding of how well a young DM will perform in your team. Don't just focus on the overall rating; a player with a combination of high tackling, marking, positioning, and work rate can become a world-class DM, even if their other stats aren’t as impressive. Remember, it’s about finding the right mix of skills and the best fit for your tactics.

Top Young Defensive Midfielders to Watch Out For

Alright, the moment you've all been waiting for! Let's get into the players! Here's a list of some of the top young defensive midfielders in FM23, perfect for bolstering your squad:

Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid)

Camavinga is a certified superstar in FM23. Even at a young age, he possesses incredible potential and a fantastic array of attributes. His work rate, tackling, and passing are already impressive, and he has the ability to develop into one of the best DMs in the game. Camavinga’s versatility also allows him to play in multiple midfield roles, giving you tactical flexibility. Securing him early on can be challenging due to his status at Real Madrid, but if you can pull it off, he will be a game-changer. His combination of defensive prowess and on-the-ball skills makes him an ideal modern DM.

Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid)

Joining Camavinga at Real Madrid, Tchouaméni is another elite young DM with sky-high potential. His tackling, marking, and strength are already top-notch, and he's a physical presence who can dominate the midfield. Tchouaméni is the kind of player who can instantly improve your team's defensive solidity. He also has the potential to grow into an even better player, making him a fantastic long-term investment. Like Camavinga, getting him might require a hefty transfer fee, but it's an investment worth making for the future of your midfield.

Gavi (Barcelona)

While Gavi is more commonly known as a central midfielder, he can play the defensive midfield role exceptionally well. His work rate, passing, and tackling make him a versatile and valuable asset. Gavi's determination and high work rate allow him to excel in almost any midfield role. He’s also a player who's likely to grow into a world-class talent, making him an excellent long-term investment. Barcelona's stance on selling him may complicate the transfer, but if you can manage to sign him, you'll be getting a player with the potential to become a club legend.

Enzo Fernández (Chelsea)

Enzo Fernández is an amazing young DM who has the potential to become one of the best in the world. He's got everything you could want in a modern defensive midfielder: fantastic passing, tackling, and work rate. What sets him apart is his ability to dictate play from deep, starting attacks and controlling the tempo of the game. Enzo’s technical ability, combined with his defensive skills, makes him a well-rounded and indispensable asset for your team. Although his transfer to Chelsea might make him more expensive, his quality and potential make him a valuable addition.

Sandro Tonali (Newcastle United)

Sandro Tonali is a fantastic all-around midfielder who is also capable of playing as a defensive midfielder. His tackling, passing, and work rate are exceptional. Tonali can be a great addition to almost any squad, bringing quality and leadership to your team. His versatility is a massive bonus, as he can also play as a central midfielder. If you're looking for a player who can seamlessly slot into your midfield and provide both defensive steel and creative passing, Tonali is your guy.

Romeo Lavia (Southampton)

Romeo Lavia is a rising star with a lot of potential. His tackling and work rate are very impressive. Even though he’s with Southampton at the start of the game, his low price tag makes him a great acquisition for many clubs. If developed well, he could grow into one of the best defensive midfielders in the game. Lavia is a solid, young player who can be a crucial part of your team's midfield for years to come. He represents excellent value for money and has the potential to be a star.

Hidden Gems and Bargain Buys

Sometimes, the best finds aren’t the ones you pay top dollar for. Here are a few hidden gems and bargain buys who can significantly improve your midfield without breaking the bank:

Ismaël Doukouré (Strasbourg)

Doukouré is a talented young player with the potential to become a solid DM. His tackling and work rate are already quite good, and he has plenty of room to develop. He represents a cost-effective option who can be developed into a key player. Securing Doukouré early in your save is a smart move for any team looking to strengthen their midfield depth.

Arnaud Bodart (Standard Liège)

Okay, so Bodart is a goalkeeper, but his handling and reflexes make him a solid option for stopping shots. He’s a bargain buy who can instantly improve your team's defensive solidity.

Lucas Gourna-Douath (RB Salzburg)

Gourna-Douath is a defensive midfielder who can do everything you ask of him. His tackling, work rate, and strength make him a solid player. He's also relatively cheap, making him an ideal pickup for clubs on a budget. Gourna-Douath is a player who can quickly integrate into your team and provide consistent performances.

Developing Your Young Defensive Midfielders

So, you’ve signed some of these promising young DMs. Now what? Proper development is key to unlocking their full potential. Here’s how to nurture your young talent:

• Training: Tailor their training regime to focus on their key attributes. Emphasis should be on tackling, marking, positioning, and strength. Consider individual training to further hone their specific strengths and address weaknesses. Also, find training routines that fit their personality and their role in your tactics.
• Game Time: Give them regular game time, even if it's off the bench. Consistent playing time is essential for their development. Don't be afraid to give them a run in important matches; this helps them handle pressure and grow faster. Try to rotate them with more experienced players to balance development and winning.
• Mentorship: Pair them with a senior player who has good attributes in the same positions. A good mentor can pass on their skills and experience, improving the young player's attributes and personality. Choose a mentor who is also a good influence, because personalities rub off.
• Tactical Role: Ensure your tactics suit their strengths. If they are good tacklers, give them a defensive role. If they are good passers, let them start attacks from deep. The right tactical role will maximize their effectiveness and accelerate their development.
• Patience: Young players take time to develop. Be patient and give them time to grow. Don’t get discouraged if they don’t immediately become world-beaters. Consistent training, game time, and guidance will pay off in the long run.

Conclusion: Building Your Midfield Dynasty

There you have it, guys! The best young defensive midfielders in FM23! Identifying and developing these talents is a critical step in building a successful team. Investing in young DMs not only provides short-term gains but also secures the future of your midfield for years to come. Remember to scout carefully, prioritize the right attributes, and focus on their development to see them reach their full potential. By securing these young stars, you'll be well on your way to dominating the game and building a true football dynasty. Good luck, and happy managing!