Who is the Best CDM in FIFA 23?

FIFA 23, one of the most widely played football simulation games, offers players the chance to take control of their favorite teams and players on a global scale. Among the most critical positions in modern football is the Center Defensive Midfielder (CDM).

CDMs are the backbone of a team’s defensive efforts, often tasked with breaking up opposition attacks, protecting the backline, and even launching offensive plays from deep. The question on every FIFA 23 player’s mind is: Who is the best CDM in the game?

To determine this, we’ll analyze the key attributes that define an elite CDM, explore the top contenders, and ultimately crown the best CDM in FIFA 23.

Key Attributes of an Elite CDM in FIFA 23

A world-class CDM is defined by a unique combination of skills that make them indispensable to a team’s structure. These attributes are critical in both real-life football and FIFA 23:

• Defensive Abilities: Tackling, interceptions, and defensive awareness are crucial. A CDM’s main job is to break up the opposition’s play, so the best CDMs have exceptional defensive stats.
• Physical Attributes: Strength, stamina, and aggression are key to winning challenges and maintaining defensive stability throughout the game.
• Passing and Playmaking: The best CDMs are not only defensive stalwarts but also excellent distributors of the ball. Long and short passing accuracy, vision, and composure on the ball are essential.
• Positioning and Awareness: Knowing where to be on the pitch is vital for a CDM. Great positioning allows them to intercept passes and block shots effectively.
• Leadership and Influence: A great CDM often leads by example, organizing the defense and offering a calming presence in high-pressure moments.

Top Contenders for Best CDM in FIFA 23

Several players stand out as the top CDMs in FIFA 23, each excelling in different aspects of the game. Let’s take a closer look at the leading contenders.

1. N’Golo Kanté (Chelsea)

• Key Stats: 89 Interceptions, 96 Stamina, 92 Defensive Awareness.
• In-Game Rating: 90 Overall.
• Why He’s a Contender: Kanté is known for his endless stamina, relentless pressing, and ability to intercept passes with ease. He is one of the few players who seems to be everywhere on the pitch, contributing defensively while also aiding the transition to attack. His tackling is precise, and his work rate is unmatched, making him a true defensive powerhouse in FIFA 23.

2. Joshua Kimmich (Bayern Munich)

• Key Stats: 87 Passing, 86 Defensive Awareness, 84 Interceptions.
• In-Game Rating: 89 Overall.
• Why He’s a Contender: Kimmich is a versatile player who excels as both a defensive midfielder and a deep-lying playmaker. His ability to control the tempo of the game, combined with his exceptional passing and vision, makes him a great CDM for players who value possession-based play. Kimmich is also solid defensively, with high defensive awareness and positioning.

3. Casemiro (Real Madrid/Manchester United)

• Key Stats: 91 Strength, 90 Aggression, 88 Tackling.
• In-Game Rating: 89 Overall.
• Why He’s a Contender: Casemiro’s physicality and defensive prowess make him one of the most formidable CDMs in the game. His strength allows him to dominate midfield duels, while his tackling and interceptions are top-notch. Casemiro’s leadership and experience also provide a calming influence on his team.

4. Rodri (Manchester City)

• Key Stats: 85 Defensive Awareness, 87 Passing, 82 Positioning.
• In-Game Rating: 87 Overall.
• Why He’s a Contender: Rodri is a brilliant CDM for players who want a blend of defensive solidity and playmaking ability. His passing accuracy is superb, and he can dictate the tempo of the game from a deep-lying position. Rodri’s defensive stats are also excellent, making him a key player in protecting the backline.

5. Declan Rice (West Ham United)

• Key Stats: 85 Strength, 86 Tackling, 84 Interceptions.
• In-Game Rating: 84 Overall.
• Why He’s a Contender: Rice is a rising star in both real-life football and FIFA 23. His defensive abilities are well-rounded, with high stamina and strength allowing him to dominate the midfield. Rice also has great leadership qualities, and his tackling is extremely reliable, making him a solid choice for any team.

Defensive Midfielders to Sign in FIFA

While players like N’Golo Kanté and Joshua Kimmich are excellent options for ready-made world-class CDMs, there are several young and rising stars you should consider signing, especially if you’re playing Career Mode and looking for potential growth:

• Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid): At only 19, Camavinga already boasts great defensive and passing stats. His potential growth is huge, making him a great long-term investment.
• Aurélien Tchouaméni (Real Madrid): Another rising star, Tchouaméni offers a perfect blend of physical strength, stamina, and defensive skills.
• Boubacar Kamara (Aston Villa): A solid option for teams looking for a young CDM with good passing and tackling abilities.
• Ibrahim Sangaré (PSV Eindhoven): Known for his physical dominance and defensive contribution, Sangaré is an excellent choice for teams seeking a commanding presence in midfield.
• Manuel Ugarte (Sporting CP): A lesser-known option, but one who provides great potential for growth in both defensive and passing departments.

These are some of the most promising defensive midfielders to sign in FIFA for players looking to build a squad with longevity and potential for growth.

Criteria for Determining the Best CDM

To crown the best CDM in FIFA 23, we use a combination of factors:

• Overall Rating: The player’s in-game rating gives a snapshot of their overall performance level.
• In-Game Performance: How the player feels and plays in-game, including responsiveness, stamina management, and positioning.
• Versatility: Ability to perform well in various formations and systems.
• Real-Life Influence: FIFA ratings are updated throughout the year based on real-life performances, so a player’s form in the real world affects their in-game stats.

The Best CDM in FIFA 23: N’Golo Kanté

After weighing all the factors, N’Golo Kanté emerges as the best CDM in FIFA 23. His combination of stamina, interceptions, tackling, and ability to cover vast areas of the pitch sets him apart from the competition. Kanté’s work rate is extraordinary, and his impact on both defense and attack makes him a versatile and indispensable player for any team.

In FIFA 23, Kanté is the perfect choice for those looking for a CDM who excels at disrupting opposition play while also providing options going forward. Whether you’re playing in Ultimate Team or Career Mode, Kanté is the engine that will keep your team running smoothly.

Honorable Mentions

While Kanté takes the crown, several other CDMs deserve recognition:

• Fabinho (Liverpool): His physicality and tactical discipline make him a key defensive asset.
• Marcelo Brozović (Inter Milan): Known for his playmaking ability and defensive awareness.
• Sergio Busquets (Barcelona): A veteran with incredible passing accuracy and football intelligence, though lacking in pace.

Tips for Using the Best CDM in FIFA 23

Here are some tips to maximize the potential of your CDM:

• Best Formations: Use formations like 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1, where the CDM can shield the defense and start attacks.
• Player Instructions: Set your CDM to “Stay Back While Attacking” to maintain defensive stability.
• Stamina Management: Make sure to manage stamina, especially for high-energy CDMs like Kanté, to ensure they last the full 90 minutes.
• Defensive Tactics: Utilize manual tackles and interceptions to maximize the impact of a player like Kanté.

Conclusion

N’Golo Kanté stands out as the best CDM in FIFA 23, offering a blend of stamina, defensive abilities, and versatility that no other player can match. While other players like Kimmich, Casemiro, and Rodri bring unique strengths to the table, Kanté’s unmatched work rate and defensive prowess make him the top choice for any FIFA player looking to dominate the midfield.

FAQs

• What makes a great CDM in FIFA 23? A great CDM needs strong defensive stats, high stamina, good passing ability, and excellent positioning.
• Can CDM stats change during the season? Yes, FIFA regularly updates player ratings based on real-life performances.
• What’s the difference between a defensive and box-to-box CDM? A defensive CDM focuses on breaking up play and protecting the defense, while a box-to-box CDM contributes both defensively and offensively.