Top FIFA 23 Defensive Midfielders: Best DMs To Sign

Nov 8, 2025 by Admin 52 views

Hey FIFA fans! Are you looking to bolster your midfield with some serious defensive steel? Then you've come to the right place. In this article, we're diving deep into the best defensive midfielders (DMs) in FIFA 23. We'll cover the top players you should be targeting to shield your defense, break up opposition attacks, and dictate the tempo from deep. So, let's get started and find the perfect DM for your squad!

What Makes a Great Defensive Midfielder in FIFA 23?

Before we jump into the list, let's quickly define what makes a top-tier defensive midfielder in FIFA 23. It's not just about having high defensive stats; a truly great DM needs a combination of attributes to excel in the game. Here are some key qualities to look for:

Defensive Prowess: Obviously, this is crucial. Look for high ratings in Interceptions, Stand Tackle, and Slide Tackle. These stats determine how effectively your DM can win the ball back and disrupt opposition attacks.
Physicality: A strong and imposing DM can dominate the midfield. Strength and Aggression are vital for winning physical battles and shielding the ball. Stamina is also key, ensuring your DM can maintain their performance throughout the match.
Passing and Vision: While their primary role is defensive, a good DM also needs to be able to distribute the ball effectively. Look for decent ratings in Short Passing and Vision to ensure they can play simple passes to teammates and launch counter-attacks.
Composure: High composure ensures the player performs well under pressure, make the correct decisions with the ball, and doesn't make mistakes that can lead to goal scoring opportunities for the opposing team.
Awareness: Awareness is a crucial stat as it impacts how well a player positions themselves defensively, anticipate passes, and react to loose balls. A high awareness rating means your DM will be in the right place at the right time to make interceptions and break up plays.
Work Rate: High work rate players are more active both on and off the ball. This means your DM will tirelessly track back to defend, close down opponents, and make themselves available for passes. High work rate is essential for maintaining defensive stability and winning the midfield battle.
Reactions: Reaction stat determines how quickly a player responds to changes in play, such as loose balls, interceptions, and tackles. High reactions allow your DM to quickly close down opponents, win tackles, and distribute the ball effectively, minimizing the risk of defensive errors.

Top Defensive Midfielders in FIFA 23 Career Mode

Alright, let's get down to business! Here’s a breakdown of some of the best defensive midfielders you can sign in FIFA 23 Career Mode, categorized for your convenience.

World-Class DMs (85+ Overall)

These are the elite, the crème de la crème. Expect to pay a premium for these players, but they'll provide instant quality and transform your midfield.

Casemiro (Manchester United): With an impressive overall rating, Casemiro is the quintessential defensive midfielder. His tackling, interceptions, and physical presence are unmatched. He's a bit older, so his growth potential is limited, but he'll be a rock in your midfield for several seasons. Casemiro's high aggression and strength make him a formidable opponent in duels, while his leadership qualities can improve the overall performance of your team. Investing in Casemiro means bringing in a player who not only excels defensively but also contributes to the team's tactical discipline and mental fortitude.
N'Golo Kanté (Al-Ittihad): Kanté's work rate and tackling ability are legendary. He's like having two players in one! Although his passing isn't the best, his ability to win the ball back and disrupt opposition attacks is invaluable. Kanté's incredible stamina and agility allow him to cover vast amounts of ground, making him a constant nuisance for opposing attackers. His ability to read the game and anticipate passes makes him an interception machine, providing crucial protection for your defense. Acquiring Kanté ensures that your midfield will be incredibly difficult to penetrate, giving your team a significant advantage in every match.
Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich): While Kimmich can play in multiple positions, his defensive midfield abilities are top-notch. His passing range, vision, and tackling make him a complete midfielder. He’s also a great option for set-pieces. Kimmich's versatility allows him to seamlessly transition between defensive and offensive duties, making him a valuable asset in various tactical setups. His exceptional passing accuracy and vision enable him to dictate the tempo of the game, while his tackling and interceptions provide crucial defensive support. Investing in Kimmich means securing a dynamic player who can contribute to all phases of the game, enhancing your team's overall performance and tactical flexibility.
Rodri (Manchester City): Rodri is a master of positioning and interception. His height and strength make him a dominant force in aerial duels, and his passing range is excellent. He's a reliable and consistent performer. Rodri's tactical intelligence and awareness allow him to anticipate opposition movements and effectively shield the defense. His composure under pressure ensures that he can maintain possession and make accurate passes even in tight situations. Acquiring Rodri provides your team with a solid defensive anchor and a reliable distributor of the ball, enhancing your team's stability and control in midfield.

High-Potential DMs (75-84 Overall with High Potential)

These players might not be world-class just yet, but they have the potential to become stars. They're younger and more affordable, making them great investments for the future.

Sandro Tonali (Newcastle United): Tonali is a well-rounded DM with excellent tackling, passing, and physical attributes. He has the potential to become one of the best midfielders in the game. Tonali's aggressive style of play and relentless work rate make him a formidable presence in midfield, disrupting opposition attacks and winning back possession. His passing accuracy and vision allow him to contribute to offensive plays as well, making him a versatile asset for your team. Investing in Tonali means securing a player with immense potential and the ability to dominate the midfield for years to come.
Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid): Tchouaméni is a physical powerhouse with great tackling and interception skills. His height and strength make him a force to be reckoned with in midfield. Tchouaméni's composure on the ball and ability to read the game make him an excellent defensive midfielder. His potential to grow into a world-class player makes him a valuable investment for any team looking to strengthen their midfield. With proper training and development, Tchouaméni can become a dominant force in your squad, providing defensive stability and control.
Edson Álvarez (West Ham): Álvarez is a tough-tackling DM with great aerial ability and a high work rate. He's a solid defensive presence and can also contribute with goals from set-pieces. Alvarez's versatility allows him to play in multiple defensive positions, making him a valuable asset for your team. His determination and commitment on the field make him a fan favorite, while his defensive skills provide crucial protection for your backline. Investing in Alvarez means bringing in a reliable and hardworking player who can contribute to both defensive and offensive aspects of the game.
Boubacar Kamara (Aston Villa): Kamara is a versatile player who can play as a DM or center-back. His tackling, interceptions, and passing are all solid, and he has the potential to grow into a top-class player. Kamara's ability to read the game and anticipate passes makes him an excellent defensive asset. His composure on the ball and passing accuracy allow him to contribute to build-up play, making him a valuable addition to any team. With proper development, Kamara can become a key player in your squad, providing defensive stability and versatility.

Bargain DMs (Under 75 Overall with Good Potential)

On a tight budget? No problem! These players might not be household names, but they offer great value for money and can develop into quality DMs with the right training.

Niccolò Rovella (Lazio): Rovella is a technically gifted DM with excellent passing and vision. He needs to improve his physical attributes, but his potential is high. Rovella's creativity and ability to dictate the tempo of the game make him a valuable asset in midfield. His potential to develop into a top-class player makes him a great investment for teams looking to build for the future. With proper training and development, Rovella can become a key playmaker in your squad.
Aster Vranckx (VfL Wolfsburg): Vranckx is a dynamic and energetic DM with good tackling and dribbling skills. He needs to work on his consistency, but his potential is undeniable. Vranckx's versatility allows him to play in multiple midfield positions, making him a valuable asset for your team. His work rate and determination on the field make him a fan favorite, while his technical skills provide creativity in midfield. Investing in Vranckx means bringing in a young and talented player with the potential to become a key contributor to your squad.
Habib Diarra (Strasbourg): Diarra is a strong and athletic DM with good tackling and interception skills. He needs to improve his passing, but his defensive abilities are promising. Diarra's physical presence and defensive skills make him a valuable asset in midfield. His potential to develop into a top-class player makes him a great investment for teams looking to strengthen their defensive capabilities. With proper training and development, Diarra can become a dominant force in your squad, providing defensive stability and protection for your backline.

Tips for Developing Your Defensive Midfielders

So, you've signed a promising DM. Now what? Here are some tips to help them reach their full potential:

Training: Focus on training sessions that improve their key attributes, such as tackling, interceptions, strength, and stamina. Specific training drills can target these areas and boost their growth.
Playing Time: Give them regular playing time to gain experience and develop their skills. The more they play, the faster they'll improve.
Sharpness: Maintain high sharpness by ensuring they get enough rest and are in good condition for matches. A sharp player performs better and develops faster.
Player Instructions: Customize their player instructions to suit your tactical style. For example, set them to