Spanish soccer is known for its technical and tactical skill, and midfielders play a key role in this style of play. They are the pillars of the midfield, responsible for defending, distributing play and often contributing offensively. Here you’ll meet the 8 best defensive midfielders in Spain, who are currently shining in the European country’s teams.
As well as listing them, we’ll tell you about their careers, most important titles and what makes them stand out in their teams.
These are players from all over the world who lend their talents to one of the strongest soccer leagues in the world: La Liga!
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8 best defensive midfielders in Spain: midfield stars
The list of Spain’s best defensive midfielders today includes:
- Aurelien Tchouaméni
- Martín Zubimendi
- Pepelu
- Johnny Cardoso
- Marc Casadó
- Daley Blind
- Marcos Llorente
- Yangel Herrera
Learn about the careers and titles of best defensive midfielders in Spain, currently playing in La Liga.
1. Aurelien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid)
Aurélien Tchouaméni is one of the strongest names in the new generation of French midfielders. After making a name for himself at Monaco, he was signed by Real Madrid in 2022, who now rely on the defensive ability and distribution skills of one of Spain’s best midfielders.
With the Madrid team, the star has already accumulated titles, including the 2023/24 Champions League, establishing himself as one of the best midfielders in Spain.
Titles with Real Madrid
- UEFA Super Cup: 2022 and 2024
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2022
- Copa del Rey: 2022-23
- Spanish Super Cup: 2023-24
- La Liga: 2023-24
- UEFA Champions League: 2023-24
Read also: Champions League winners: 10 greatest teams, players, coaches and countries that have dominated the competition
2. Martín Zubimendi (Real Sociedad)
Martín Zubimendi is a complete midfielder and one of Real Sociedad’s great revelations. A graduate of the club’s youth academy, the player is consistent and has become one of the team’s mainstays in recent years.
With a strong defensive presence, Zubimendi is also known for his ability to initiate quality moves that lead the team forward.
His ability to read the game and his skill on the ball make him an essential part of the Spanish team’s tactical scheme.
Titles at Real Sociedad
- Copa del Rey: 2019-20
Spanish national team
- UEFA Nations League: 2022-23
- European Championship: 2024
3. Pepelu (Valencia)
José Luis García Vayá, better known as Pepelu, is one of Valencia’s gems. Raised in the club’s youth ranks, he was promoted to the first team and has established himself as one of the best midfielders in Spain with some brilliant performances.
Pepelu is a technical midfielder, with excellent ball control and the ability to make quick transitions, and is one of the most talked about names in La Liga, even though he plays for a team with less investment capacity, like Valencia.
4. Johnny Cardoso (Betis)
Johnny Cardoso is one of the Brazilians currently shining in Spanish soccer. With Brazilian and American nationality, Johnny is known for his ability to make long, accurate passes.
He currently plays for Betis and has shown an impressive ability to play both defensively and to create chances.
Despite starting his career with Internacional, the player chose to play for the US national team, for which he won the CONCACAF Nations League in two consecutive seasons.
5. Marc Casadó (Barcelona)
At just 21, Marc Casadó is one of the emerging talents from Barcelona’s renowned La Masia academy.
With his excellent ball control and vision, as well as his tackling ability and quick distribution of play, he has established himself as one of the best midfielders in Spain.
6. Daley Blind (Girona)
The experienced Daley Blind is versatile and can play both as a midfielder and as a defender.
With spells at Ajax and Manchester United, Blind currently plays for Girona. His tactical intelligence and international experience make him a valuable player for any team, and keep him among the best midfielders in Spain.
Read also: 10 best defenders in Spain today: their careers and titles
7. Marcos Llorente (Atlético de Madrid)
Marcos Llorente is one of Spain’s best midfielders, known for his ability to play both defensively and offensively.
He can play as a defensive midfielder or further forward, and this flexibility is one of his greatest virtues.
The star began his career at Real Madrid in the youth ranks, aged just 13, in 2008. Six years later, in 2014, he made his first-team debut and, in 2016, was loaned out to Alavés.
It wasn’t until 2016 that he arrived at Atlético de Madrid, established himself in midfield and made history with the team.
Titles for Real Madrid
- UEFA Super Cup: 2016
- FIFA Club World Cup: 2017, 2018
- UEFA Champions League: 2017-18
Titles for Atlético de Madrid
- La Liga: 2020-21
8. Yangel Herrera (Girona)
Yangel Herrera, a Venezuelan midfielder, has stood out in La Liga for his physical presence and ability to distribute play.
Having played for several Spanish clubs, he currently plays for Girona, where he has been a key player in midfield, making a name for himself among the best midfielders in Spain.
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Read also:
- 9 Best goalkeepers in Spaina: La Liga stars today
- TOP 10 Best right-backs in Spain today
- TOP 10 Best left-backs in Spain today
