Ranking Real Madrid’s top 5 defensive midfielders of all-time

1. Casemiro (2013-2022)

There are no ifs and buts about it: Carlos Henrique Casemiro is the finest defensive midfielder in Real Madrid history.

Casemiro arrived at Real as a young Brazilian star from Sao Paulo, and he went on to become one of the most important figures in the club’s illustrious history. This legend’s legacy will take a long time to match, if it is ever matched at all.

Yes, there is less to say about his elegance, and there is less poetry in his movement, but he has everything you need in a leader. He was bold, frivolous, and, most importantly, trustworthy. After Alonso left, Casemiro was the player Real Madrid needed, and he outgrew all expectations.

His Real Madrid career has been filled with nothing but success. He generated endless memories, brought several prizes to be displayed, and, amusingly, a number of complaints to be brushed off.

Highlight would be a lesser word to describe his time in royal white. More than what could be condensed into a brief overview, Casemiro contributed a great deal more to the Bernabeu.

The menacing smile he wore, the unique way he had with the referees, the mentality and readiness to do all for his teammates and die for this badge. Casemiro was a warrior that no one could equal.

He was called the ‘Tank’ for all the right reasons. Real Madrid’s most famed midfield three was completed by the defensive midfielder. Casemiro accomplished the dream before leaving Madrid by winning 5 Champions League titles, 3 LaLiga trophies, 3 club World Cups, and 3 UEFA Super Cups all with Los Blancos. He will be remembered as the best defensive midfielder in the club’s history.