Career Mode's best young defensive midfielders

By Mark PangalosSports Writer

Good defensive midfielders can be invaluable on FIFA 21 Career Mode.

These players need to be solid defensively and also have good passing attributes too.

Keep reading for the best under-23 CDM’s on FIFA 21 Career Mode.

Latest data and images sourced from SoFIFA.

Wilfred Ndidi (OVR 84 - POT 88)

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MIDFIELD ENFORCER - Ndidi is one of the best defensive players on the game

Ndidi is hoping to secure Champions League football with Leicester this season, after narrowly missing out last year.

The Nigerian's FIFA 21 card is very impressive, with a 4 star weak foot, 92 Stamina, 90 Interceptions and 89 Standing Tackle.

Denis Zakaria (OVR 82 - POT 87)

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POWERHOUSE - Zakaria can also play as a centre back

Zakaria averaged 40 passes per match in the Bundesliga in 2019/20, with a pass completion rate of 87%, and had two assists.

The Swiss international possesses great physical attributes for a CDM, with 85 Sprint Speed, 87 Strength and 87 Aggression.

Konrad Laimer (OVR 81 - POT 85)

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EVERY BLADE OF GRASS - Laimer's pace and energy is incredible

Konrad Laimer is hoping to improve on the six assists and two goals that he registered in the Bundesliga last season.

The Austrian will cover a lot of ground in midfield with 88 Stamina and high defensive work rate.

Declan Rice (OVR 80 - POT 86)

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HAPPY HAMMER - Rice is a crucial part of West Ham's success this season

Declan Rice has established himself as one of the best defensive midfielders in the Premier League.

The England international is severely underrated and could receive a big upgrade in the Winter Refresh on Ultimate Team.

Manuel Locatelli (OVR 80 - POT 86)

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PASS MASTER - Locatelli boasts the best distribution on this list

Sassuolo star Manuel Locatelli is an all-action midfielder, capable in the tackle and in possession!

With an excellent range of passing, Manuel Locatelli can start your attacks from deep.

Scott McTominay (OVR 80 - POT 85)

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RED DEVIL - McTominay is an imposing figure in central midfield

Manchester United's Scott McTominay has been one of The Red Devils' top performers this season.

A consistent presence in midfield, the Scottish international is excellent physically, and provides a goal threat too.

Franck Kessie (OVR 80 - POT 84)

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BEAST - 92 Stamina and 85 Strength make Kessie a solid CDM

High work rates and superb physical attributes make Franck Kessie a classic midfield enforcer.

Kessie is also capable of playing in a box-to-box midfield role too.

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