The defensive midfield position, also known as the destroyer, holds special
importance on the pitch. A team looking to ensure defensive solidity and build
effective attacks must have a high-quality defensive midfielder in its ranks.
In this context, let's explore five of the greatest defensive midfielders in
history.
Roy Keane
It's impossible to compile a list of the top five defensive midfielders
without including the English legend Roy Keane, the Manchester United and
Irish national team icon.
Keane was renowned for his combative style and relentless drive, often
overshadowing his exceptional technical abilities. It's hard to believe that
at one point, Keane's market value reached a staggering 25 million euros, a
monumental figure considering he retired 18 years ago!.
By the numbers, let’s look at Roy Keane’s career
Historically, Roy Keane participated in 676 matches across various
competitions. In addition to his standout defensive displays, Keane achieved
notable statistics offensively, contributing to 129 goals by assisting 42
goals and scoring 87 goals.
Patrick Vieira
In a previous era, Patrick Vieira and Roy Keane were the premier defensive
midfielders in the world, adding extra spice to the rivalry between Arsenal
and Manchester United. Arsenal legend Vieira, who enjoyed his most successful
years at the Gunners, also had stints in Italy with Milan and Inter.
Patrick Vieira’s numbers, Arsenal’s defensive midfield legend
During his career, Patrick Vieira played 629 matches in his career and,
besides his exceptional defensive performances, also showcased impressive
attacking abilities. He contributed to 110 goals, scoring 56 and providing 54
assists.
Lothar Matthäus
The current generation of football fans might only know Lothar Matthäus for
his critical comments about his compatriot, the recently retired Toni Kroos.
However, what if we told you that Lothar Matthäus is one of the most legendary
German players and an irreplaceable icon in European football as a defensive
midfielder?
Lothar Matthäus is one of the few midfielders whose record includes a Ballon
d'Or, which he won in 1991.
Matthäus, who played for notable teams like Bayern Munich and Inter Milan, had
a career marked by incredible statistics.
Lothar Matthäus Numbers:
Historically,Lothar Matthäus played 595 matches throughout his club career
(excluding international appearances) and managed to score an astonishing 179
goals. Can you imagine a defensive midfielder with such an impressive
goal-scoring record?
Steven Gerrard
The current Al-Ettifaq manager and Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard is
considered one of the best defensive midfielders in football history. What
sets Gerrard apart is his brilliance in the Premier League, arguably the
toughest league in the world.
Steven Gerrard’s numbers
Historically, Steven Gerrard played 863 matches across various competitions.
Besides his outstanding performances as a defensive midfielder. Gerrard
showcased incredible offensive abilities, contributing to 407 goals by scoring
212 goals and assisting 195 goals.
Frank Lampard
When discussing Steven Gerrard as one of the greatest defensive midfielders,
it's impossible to ignore his eternal rival, Chelsea and England legend Frank
Lampard. Both Gerrard and Lampard, along with other contemporaries, are
considered generational talents who redefined the defensive midfield role.
Many believe that the current generation of defensive midfielders do not match
up to the standards set by Gerrard, Lampard, and other renowned names from
that era.
Frank Lampard’s numbers
Historically, Frank Lampard played a total of 1020 matches throughout his
career. His impact was as significant as Gerrard's, both defensively and
offensively. He scored 297 goals and provided 183 assists during his career.