5 defensive midfielders with most goal contributions this season
The role of a defensive midfielder has only become more crucial with time. We have seen a massive club like Manchester United struggle immensely due to the absence of a quality defensive-minded midfielder.
The likes of Casemiro, N'Golo Kante and other top midfielders have taken the standards of a defensive midfielder to a different level. With intense gameplay involved nowadays, it only makes it vital to have a top-quality defensive midfielder.
Defensive midfielders have decent goal contributions in attack
The performances of defensive midfielders in Europe's top five leagues have been a delight to watch in the 2021-22 season. With their amazing ability to protect their defenders and allow their forwards to exploit the opposition, these midfielders have stood out for their respective teams.
In addition to that, these midfield players have made some vital contributions in attack. They have not only scored crucial goals but also helped in setting up a few. On that note, let's take a look at the defensive midfielders with the most goal contributions this campaign.
#5 Declan Rice (West Ham United)
There is no midfielder in the Premier League who is as wanted as Declan Rice is right now. The Englishman is extremely talented with his skills both on and off the ball.
Rice has the amazing ability to read the game and position himself accordingly. The West Ham midfielder is a smart passer of the ball and is known to make witty and timely tackles. He has been quite productive in attack this season.
Declan Rice's first half by numbers vs. Man Utd:
100% long pass accuracy
100% take-on success
100% tackle success
100% duels won
33 passes attempted
32 passes completed
One pass away from perfection. 🤩 https://t.co/OxCzoYvX5o
The 23-year-old has scored once and assisted four times in the 2021-22 campaign. His forward carries have been quite inspiring and helpful for West Ham United this season.
#4 Julian Weigl (Benfica)
After spending five seasons with Borussia Dortmund, Julian Weigl joined Benfica in 2020. It is with the Portuguese club that the German midfielder is finding rhythm and flow to his game.
Weigl is a good passer of the ball and is known to have a good positioning sense in midfield. At Benfica, the former Borussia Dortmund midfielder has been very active and instrumental for the Portuguese giants this season.
Julian Weigl's stats v. Barcelona:
94% pass accuracy
5 ball recoveries
4 interceptions
100% aerial duels
100% tackles won(4)
4 fouls suffered
100% long balls(6)
3 chances created
1 assist
🙌🙌
#UCL #Barcelona #BenficaBarca https://t.co/tYzcvK892Z
The 26-year-old has scored two goals and registered three assists from deep midfield. With more such performances, Weigl can hopefully get back to his best and fulfill the incredible potential he possesses.