February 20 – The latest report from the CIES Football Observatory, using technical data from Wyscout, has identified the top U23 defensive midfielders across 46 leagues worldwide. Borussia Mönchengladbach’s Rocco Reitz leads the rankings, edging out Barcelona’s Marc Casadó and Genk’s Ibrahima Sory Bangoura.
The study evaluates performance using a synthetic index, calculated by assessing defensive duels won below elbow height, pass interceptions and anticipation on loose balls. These metrics are adjusted for success rate and the sporting level of matches played, ensuring a comprehensive ranking. Players must have logged at least 450 domestic league minutes in the 2024/25 season to be included.
In Germany, Reitz stands out as the highest-ranked player. The 21-year-old has been a key figure in his club’s midfield, showing a strong ability to read the game and win challenges in tight spaces.
Spain’s top performer is Casadó, the latest La Masia product to emerge as a potential long-term fixture in Barcelona’s midfield. Dubbed “La Masia’s midfield glue”, his intelligence on and off the ball has seen him rise through the ranks, earning recognition in a side grappling with financial constraints, yet still producing elite young talent.
In England, Ryan Gravenberch has been Liverpool’s breakout midfield presence. The 22-year-old, who arrived from Bayern Munich in 2023, has impressed with his ability to recover possession and disrupt opposition attacks. After spending much of his debut year on the bench, the Dutchman is proving to be a vital component in Arne Slot’s evolving midfield.
Over in France, João Neves has been Paris Saint-Germain’s standout young midfielder. Signed from Benfica in the summer, the 19-year-old has adapted quickly to Ligue 1, demonstrating an impressive ability to win ground duels despite his relative inexperience at the top level.
Italy’s highest-ranked player is Lorenzo Amatucci from Serie B side Salernitana, who doesn’t feature inside the top 50, reflecting a concerning lack of both youth and quality in defensive midfield roles across Serie A. Unlike their European rivals, Italy’s clubs appear to be falling behind in producing young players who can dominate defensively in midfield.
Beyond the top five leagues, Genk’s Bangoura is emerging as a potential transfer candidate for bigger European clubs. His performances have not gone unnoticed and he could soon be on the move to a higher-profile league.
Willem II’s Amine Lachkar and Zwolle’s Nick Fichtinger have also impressed, securing spots in the top 10.
Among the youngest players in the list is Las Palmas’ Dário Essugo, currently on loan from Sporting CP, who is the highest-ranked teenager at just 19 years old.
Other promising names include Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi, PSG’s Warren Zaïre-Emery and Tottenham’s Lucas Bergvall, all of whom are making early waves in senior football as the three youngest entries in the list at 17, 18 and 19 respectively.
With 32 different leagues represented in the top 100, the data highlights the vast range of young midfielders excelling in defensive situations across the world.
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