10 best FIFA 23 center-backs that make defending easy (+Wonderkids)

The best FIFA 23 center-backs are here! The center-back, often referred to as the 'heart' of a football team's defense, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the opposing side doesn't breach their fortress.

In this article, we'll delve into the world of elite center-backs, examining their profiles and potential in the ever-competitive realm of football. Plus, we will share a list of the best FIFA 23 young center-backs so you can use it in career mode.

Best FIFA 23 center-backs

Presenting the best FIFA 23 center-backs, at the time of the writing, who can help you put an end to those frustrating goals you keep conceding to your skilled friend:

• Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
• Rúben Dias (Manchester City)
• Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain)
• Antonio Rüdiger (Real Madrid)
• Kalidou Koulibaly (Chelsea FC)
• David Alaba (Real Madrid)
• Milan Škriniar (Inter Milan)
• Thiago Silva (Chelsea FC)
• Aymeric Laporte (Manchester City)
• Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich)

Let’s take a closer look at these stars and explore what they offer.

Virgil van Dijk

Kicking off our list is none other than the formidable Virgil van Dijk. This 31-year-old Dutch defender has been an immovable force in the Liverpool backline. His overall rating of 90 reflects his exceptional abilities to read the game, win aerial duels, and execute precise tackles.

• Age: 31
• Club: Liverpool
• Overall: 90
• Potential: 90

Rúben Dias

Rúben Dias, at just 25 years old, has already made a significant impact at Manchester City. His impressive overall rating of 88 showcases his knack for interceptions, composure under pressure, and leadership on the field. With a potential of 91, he's set to become a future legend.

• Age: 25
• Club: Manchester City
• Overall: 88
• Potential: 91

Marquinhos 

Marquinhos brings a blend of experience and versatility to Paris Saint-Germain's backline. His overall rating of 88 highlights his excellent ball-playing skills and ability to adapt to various defensive positions. With a potential of 90, he's still reaching new heights.

• Age: 28
• Club: Paris Saint-Germain
• Overall: 88
• Potential: 90

Antonio Rüdiger

Antonio Rüdiger, now donning the white jersey of Real Madrid, has earned a reputation for his no-nonsense defending. His overall rating of 87 reflects his ability to stifle attackers and build from the back, making him a crucial asset for his team's title ambitions.

• Age: 29
• Club: Real Madrid
• Overall: 87
• Potential: 88

Kalidou Koulibaly

Koulibaly, a powerful defender at 30, anchors Chelsea's defense with his strength and agility. His overall rating of 87 showcases his prowess in one-on-one duels and his commitment to protecting the goal. He's a formidable obstacle for any attacking force.

• Age: 30
• Club: Chelsea FC
• Overall: 87
• Potential: 87

David Alaba

David Alaba may be approaching the twilight of his career, but his abilities have not diminished. With an overall rating of 86, his defensive intelligence and adaptability make him a valuable asset for Real Madrid.

• Age: 30
• Club: Real Madrid
• Overall: 86
• Potential: 86

Milan Škriniar

Milan Škriniar, at 30, continues to shine at Inter Milan. His overall rating of 86 underlines his excellent positioning and ability to build from the back. His potential of 87 indicates that he still has room for improvement.

• Age: 27
• Club: Inter Milan
• Overall: 86
• Potential: 87

Thiago Silva 

Thiago Silva, at 38, brings a wealth of experience to Chelsea's defense. His overall rating of 86 illustrates his organizational skills and ability to mentor the younger talents in the team. He remains a key figure for the Blues.

• Age: 38
• Club: Chelsea FC
• Overall: 86
• Potential: 86

Aymeric Laporte

Aymeric Laporte, 28, has been a consistent performer for Manchester City. His overall rating of 86 highlights his ability to play out from the back and make crucial interceptions. With a potential of 87, he's set to remain a cornerstone of City's defense.

• Age: 28
• Club: Manchester City
• Overall: 86
• Potential: 87

Matthijs de Ligt 

Matthijs de Ligt, at 23, has the potential to become one of the best in the world. His overall rating of 85 already showcases his aerial dominance and composure. With a potential of 89, he's on the path to greatness.

• Age: 23
• Club: Bayern Munich
• Overall: 85
• Potential: 89

Best FIFA 23 young center-backs 

Here are the best FIFA 23 young center-backs:

• J. Gvardiol (RB Leipzig)
• A. Silva (Benfica)
• G. Scalvini (Atalanta)
• C. Lukeba (Lyon)
• T. Kouassi (Sevilla)

Keep reading and find out their potential.

J. Gvardiol

At just 20 years of age, J. Gvardiol is a name that's beginning to echo through footballing circles. Playing as a central defender for RB Leipzig, his current rating of 81 indicates his talent, but his potential rating of 89 hints at the heights he's set to reach.

A.Silva

Benfica's A. Silva, at just 18 years old, is a young central defender who already possesses a current rating of 66. With a potential rating of 86, his journey to becoming a defensive stalwart has just begun.

G. Scalvini

Another 18-year-old central defender, G. Scalvini, dons the colors of Atalanta. His current rating of 70, coupled with a potential rating of 86, hints at the Italian's promise.

C. Lukeba

C. Lukeba, aged 19, is a central defender at Lyon. His current rating of 76 showcases his defensive abilities, while a potential rating of 86 highlights his bright future in the game.

T. Kouassi 

20-year-old T. Kouassi, playing as a central defender for Sevilla, is another talent with a current rating of 73 and a potential rating of 85.

Importance of center-backs in FIFA 23 

Center-backs are the backbone of any successful FIFA 23 team, and their importance cannot be overstated. In a game where offensive firepower often takes the limelight, center-backs provide the essential defensive stability and organization required to win matches. They are the last line of defense, tasked with thwarting the opponent's attacks and preventing goals. A solid center-back duo or trio can mean the difference between victory and defeat in FIFA 23.

Furthermore, center-backs play a crucial role in initiating attacks. In the modern game, they are not just defenders but also playmakers from the back. With the right skills and attributes, they can deliver pinpoint long passes, switch the play, and even start counter-attacks. This ability to build from the back and distribute the ball effectively is invaluable in FIFA 23, where quick transitions and smart passing can create goal-scoring opportunities.

Whether it's intercepting passes, making key tackles, or distributing the ball to launch attacks, center-backs are indispensable in achieving success on the virtual pitch.

Editor’s choice: Fastest center backs in FIFA 23

Fast FIFA 23 center-backs hold a pivotal role in the game due to their ability to track and counter the rapid movements of attacking players. In a game where pace is often a decisive factor, fast FIFA 23 CBs enable you to catch up with speedy opponents, and here are the best of them:

• Éder Militão (Pace 86 – OVR 84): With a strong overall rating and a respectable pace, Éder Militão is a well-rounded center-back known for his ability to defend and recover quickly.
• Maxence Lacroix (Pace 87 – OVR 77): Maxence Lacroix combines decent pace with a solid overall rating, making him a reliable option for players looking for a mix of speed and defensive capabilities.
• Phil Neumann (Pace 88 – OVR 70): Phil Neumann's impressive pace rating sets him apart, although his overall rating suggests there's room for development.
• Tristan Blackmon (Pace 88 – OVR 68): With a similar pace rating to Neumann, Tristan Blackmon may be an option for those seeking a pacey center-back but with a lower overall rating.
• Tyler Jordan Magloire (Pace 89 – OVR 69): Tyler Jordan Magloire's high pace rating gives him the agility to chase down attackers, but his overall rating indicates he's still a developing talent.

This agility and speed can be the difference between successfully defending against a fast-breaking attack and conceding a goal, making fast center-backs invaluable assets in maintaining a solid defense and controlling the flow of the game in FIFA 23.