Who were the best defensive midfielders in Manchester United's history?

In the rich history of Manchester United, few roles have been as vital as that of the defensive midfielder. These often-underestimated players have provided the foundation upon which the club's successes were built. From the tenacity of Roy Keane to the elegance of Michael Carrick, Old Trafford has witnessed the greatness of these pillars.

We, as English football analysts, have dedicated time and effort to evaluating and ranking the best in this position. This ranking not only celebrates their individual skills but also their collective impact on Manchester United's trajectory.

Roy Keane: The embodiment of passion and leadership

Roy Keane didn't just play for Manchester United; he personified the club's spirit. His presence on the field was imposing, a leader who inspired his teammates and terrified his opponents. His ability to break up the opposition's play and launch counterattacks was second to none.

Keane's legacy extends beyond his statistics. His leadership in the dressing room and his winning mentality were fundamental in Manchester United's golden era under Sir Alex Ferguson. His name resonates with the intensity and determination that defined that team.

Casemiro: The tactical maestro who conquered Old Trafford

Casemiro's arrival at Manchester United marked a before and after in the team's midfield. His experience and tactical knowledge brought a defensive solidity that had been absent. His ability to anticipate plays and recover balls made him an indispensable player.

Casemiro not only stands out for his defensive ability but also for his vision of the game and his precision in passing. His influence on the team is felt both in ball recovery and in play distribution, a truly complete defensive midfielder.

Nemanja Matić: Serbian elegance at the heart of the team

Nemanja Matić brought a serene elegance to Manchester United's midfield. His ability to read the game and his precision in passing made him a key player in building the play from defense. His presence on the field always conveyed calm and security.

Despite his discreet style, Matić was a fundamental player in key moments. His ability to intercept balls and his ability to initiate counterattacks were crucial in many matches. His legacy at the club is based on his consistency and his silent but effective contribution.

Bryan Robson: Captain marvel of the golden era

Bryan Robson, known as "Captain Marvel," personified tenacity and leadership at Manchester United. His versatility and fighting spirit made him an indispensable player in the club's golden era. His ability to score important goals and his ability to defend with grit made him a complete player.

Robson was not only a great player but also an inspiring leader. His influence in the dressing room and his ability to motivate his teammates were fundamental in the team's successes. His legacy at the club is based on his total dedication and his love for the shirt.

Michael Carrick: The silent brain of the midfield

Michael Carrick was the silent brain of Manchester United's midfield. His precision in passing and his ability to control the rhythm of the game made him a key player in building the play. His vision of the game and his ability to anticipate plays made him indispensable.

Carrick not only stood out for his technical ability but also for his tactical intelligence. His ability to read the game and his ability to make quick decisions made him a fundamental player in the team's midfield. His legacy at the club is based on his elegance and his silent but effective contribution.

Who is the best? An eternal debate at Old Trafford

The question of who is the best defensive midfielder in Manchester United's history will always generate debate. Each of these players brought something unique to the team and left their own mark on the club's history.

The choice of the best is subjective and depends on each fan's criteria. However, what is indisputable is that all these players were fundamental pillars in Manchester United's successes.

In our opinion, these five players represent the elite of the defensive midfielders who have worn the Manchester United shirt. Each of them left an indelible mark on the club's history and contributed to the team's successes.

Their legacy will endure in the memory of the fans and their example will inspire future generations of Manchester United players.

What you should know about these midfielders:

• Roy Keane: A fierce leader and tireless winner.
• Casemiro: A tactical maestro with exceptional defensive ability.
• Nemanja Matić: An elegant and precise player in his interventions.
• Bryan Robson: An inspiring captain and a complete player.
• Michael Carrick: A silent strategist with a privileged vision of the game.