Most duels won in the Premier League since the start of last season (2020-21)
The Premier League is arguably one of the toughest leagues in the world. The difficulty in prospering in England's top division is in overcoming the physicality that is involved.
Not every player who has been successful in other top European leagues is assured of success in England. Some of the best players have at times struggled to make it big in the Premier League.
The Premier League challenges the physical strength of a player
Winning a duel is always a daunting task irrespective of whether it is being fought aerially or on the pitch. Ultimately, what matters is getting possession at any cost.
Some footballers have mastered the art of winning a duel in the Premier League and have been very efficient in that. Here, we take a look at the top players who have won the most number of duels since the start of the 2020-21 season.
#5 John McGinn (369)
John McGinn has been one of the most underrated players in the Premier League over the past few years. The Scottish midfielder has become an important player for Aston Villa ever since joining them in the 2018-19 season from Hibernian.
Playing as a central midfielder, McGinn is known to be more of an attacking outlet but his defensive side isn't bad either. With his aggression, constant high energy and desire to win the ball back, the left-footed footballer is often involved in duels on the pitch.
#avfc
John McGinn made a massive 7 tackles against Crystal Palace 👏
To put that in perspective, the Premier League’s top tackler this season is Tottenham’s Emerson Royal who averages 3.8 tackles per game at the moment 😰 #avfc https://t.co/7ymopQiE29
The 27-year-old has impressive tackling abilities under his belt and has used it quite effectively for Villa. Since the start of the 2020-21 season, McGinn has won 368 duels in the league. The Scotsman has so far won 79 tackles since last season.
#4 Joelinton (371)
The Brazilian has been somewhat inconsistent since arriving in the 2019-20 season from Hoffenheim. Joelinton has lately been shifted to a midfield role and is doing pretty well.
The Newcastle United midfielder has always had a knack for getting into intense challenges to win the ball. Joelinton has been impressive in the ongoing campaign, being a reliable player for manager Eddie Howe. Although he has committed the fourth-most fouls this season (49), he has won the 10th most number of tackles (37).
| Joelinton tackles statistics this season: 
🇧🇷 | Joelinton tackles statistics this season:
Tackles made: 59
Dribbled past: 22
Tackle success: 72.8%
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#NUFC https://t.co/UyqoApsgPR
His desire to win the ball makes him more dangerous and with his tall and strong physique, he's always going to be challenged in tough duels. Joelinton has won 371 duels in the league since the start of last season.