The 2024/25 Premier League season has showcased an array of exceptional defensive talent, with centre-backs and full-backs alike proving pivotal to their teams’ successes. From commanding aerial duels to contributing offensively, these defenders have stood out for their consistency, leadership, and game-changing performances.
Based on a combination of statistical excellence, team impact, and critical acclaim, here are the top five defenders of the 2024/25 Premier League season.
1. Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk has reclaimed his throne as the Premier League’s premier centre-back, leading Liverpool to the 2024/25 title with a commanding presence. The Dutchmanās resurgence has been nothing short of remarkable, with his 242 clearances leading the league and his 70.97% aerial duel success rate placing him in the 80-95th percentile among centre-backs.
Van Dijkās forward passing accuracy (80.02%) and minimal challenges lost (0.26 per 90 minutes) underscore his composure and dominance. Under Arne Slot, he has been a linchpin in Liverpoolās backline, which conceded just 0.85 goals per 90 minutes with him on the pitch. His leadership as captain and ability to neutralize top attackers have cemented his status as the seasonās standout defender.
2. William Saliba
William Saliba has solidified his reputation as one of the worldās elite defenders, anchoring Arsenalās league-best defensive record of the 2024/25 season. The Frenchman started 35 matches, playing a key role in Arsenalās title challenge despite their second-place finish. His tackle success rate of 62%, exceptional positioning, and composure on the ball have drawn comparisons to a Rolls-Royceāsmooth, reliable, and commanding.
Salibaās partnership with Gabriel MagalhĆ£es has been a cornerstone of Arsenalās success, and his ability to read the game and contribute to build-up play has made him indispensable. At just 23, Salibaās trajectory suggests he could dominate for years to come.
3. Gabriel MagalhĆ£es
Gabriel MagalhĆ£es has emerged as a force at both ends of the pitch, earning his spot among the Premier Leagueās elite. His 1.1 blocked shots per 90 minutes and high percentile in last-man tackles highlight his defensive tenacity, while his offensive contributionsāscoring three goals and posing a constant threat from set piecesāset him apart.
Gabrielās partnership with Saliba has been described as one of the best in the league, with Arsenal conceding just 29 goals across the season. Despite a season-ending injury, his impact was undeniable, with his physicality and aerial prowess making him a nightmare for opponents.
4. Nikola MilenkoviÄ
Nottingham Forestās push for Champions League qualification has been one of the seasonās biggest surprises, and Nikola MilenkoviÄ has been at the heart of their defensive solidity. The Serbian centre-back, standing at 6ā5ā, has won 71.09% of his aerial duels, placing him in the 80-95th percentile among centre-backs.
His minimal challenges lost (0.19 per 90) and 0.06 unsuccessful touches per 90 minutes reflect his reliability. MilenkoviÄās partnership with Murillo has given Forest a balanced and formidable backline, contributing to their joint league-best 13 clean sheets. His five goals, tied for the most among defenders, add an offensive dimension to his commanding presence.
5. Antonee Robinson
Fulhamās Antonee Robinson has redefined the role of a modern full-back with his relentless work rate and attacking flair. Leading all defenders with 10 assists in the 2024/25 season, Robinsonās 43 created chances and 72 touches in the oppositionās penalty box highlight his offensive impact.
Defensively, he has been a key part of Fulhamās mid-table respectability, with his pace and tenacity on the left flank shutting down top wingers. His double-digit assist tally, combined with consistent performances, has made him a standout, earning praise as one of the leagueās most dynamic defenders.