The Bundesliga, widely known for its thrilling football and high-octane matches, has seen the rise of several exceptional defenders especially in recent years.
As the start of the 2024/2025 Bundesliga season draws near, we turn our attention to the most valuable defenders in the German top flight. From household names to exciting young talents, Soccernet.football takes a look at the top ten.
10. Odilon Kossounou (Bayer Leverkusen) – €35m
The Ivorian’s commanding presence, aerial dominance and astute positioning have been instrumental in Leverkusen’s ability to maintain a solid backline. Kossounou’s leadership and ability to snuff out opposing attacks makes him an indispensable figure for Die Werkself as they aim to mount a successful title defense this season.
9. Castello Lukeba (RB Leipzig) – €40m
The young and talented French center-back has been an instrumental part of RB Leipzig’s defensive setup this season. Known for his composure on the ball and ability to read the game, Lukeba has formed a solid partnership in the heart of Leipzig’s defense. His ability to intercept passes and put in crucial tackles make him a key figure in their backline. Despite being only 21 years old, Lukeba has shown maturity beyond his years, making him one of the most promising defenders in the Bundesliga.
8. Nico Schlotterbeck (Borussia Dortmund) – €40m
Schlotterbeck’s physical presence, aerial dominance and ball-playing ability make him a mainstay in Dortmund’s defense. The 24-year-old’s ability to play both as a center-back and left-back, gives Dortmund some flexibility in their defensive tactics. His ability to carry the ball forward and initiate attacks from the back will be crucial in Dortmund’s build-up play.
7. Piero Hincapié (Bayer Leverkusen) – €40m
The Ecuadorian is widely known robust defending and intelligent positioning, earning him a reputation as one of the toughest defenders in the league. Hincapié’s ability to read the game and make timely interceptions were vital in keeping Leverkusen’s defense tight as they cruised to glory last term. Additionally, his contribution in set pieces, both defensively and offensively, adds another dimension to his game.
6. Min-Jae Kim (Bayern Munich) – €45m
Widely known for his strength, aerial ability, and calmness under pressure, the south-korean has been a rock at the back for Bayern. His tackling accuracy and ability to marshal the defense will be very important for Vincent Kompany’s side this season. Kim’s leadership qualities have also been on display, as he often organizes the defense and provides guidance to his teammates.
5. Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich) – €45m
Upamecano, another crucial member of Bayern’s defense, has continued to build on his reputation as one of Europe’s elite defenders. The Frenchman boasts a blend of physicality, pace and technical ability, making him a nightmare for opposition attackers. His pace and ability to make last-ditch tackles will pivotal as the Bavarians look to reclaim the Bundesliga crown.
4. Alejandro Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen) – €45
Grimaldo was one of the standout performers for Bayer Leverkusen last season. The Spaniard’s attacking contributions will be vital, with his ability to produce dangerous crosses and link up play effectively. Grimaldo’s tackling and positioning are also solid, making him a well-rounded defender.
3. Edmond Tapsoba (Bayer Leverkusen) – €45
Tapsoba’s calmness on the ball and ability to play out from the back is crucial for Leverkusen’s possession-based style of play. His intelligence in reading the game and his ability to make important interceptions make him one of the best in the Bundesliga . His leadership at the back has also been vital, as he often organizes the defense, ensuring his teammates maintain their shape and discipline.
2. Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen) – €50m
The Dutch right-back was one of the most exciting players in the Bundesliga last season. His pace, dribbling ability, and attacking mindset made him a constant threat down the right flank for Bayer Leverkusen. Frimpong’s ability to overlap and deliver accurate crosses resulted in numerous goals and assists as Die Werkself won the Bundesliga.
1. Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich) – €50m
Bayern’s embattled left-back tops our list. The Canadian has been instrumental in their attacking play, often marauding down the left wing and creating chances. His ability to recover quickly and make crucial tackles has also been a key aspect of his game. Davies’ versatility allows him to play in multiple positions, and his contributions at both ends of the pitch make him one of the most valuable players in the Bundesliga.