Fantasy Oscars (3): The Best Defenders in the Premier League – 2024/25 Season
Episode three of the “Fantasy Oscars” series takes us to the heart of defense. After spotlighting the best forwards and midfielders in the first two parts, it’s now time to highlight the standout defenders of the 2024–25 Premier League season.
This edition reveals the names that didn’t just excel at keeping clean sheets, but also chipped in with goals, assists, and Fantasy performances worthy of real recognition.
And as loyal readers of fantasy24.club would expect, many of these players had already been featured in our early-season picks and weekly analyses—insights that, if you followed closely, could have earned you decisive points and a strong climb up the overall rankings.
1- Milankovic
In a season that began with soaring dreams and ended in bitter disappointment, Nuno Santo and his men came agonizingly close to glory. Nottingham Forest flew high, chasing second place and a Champions League dream—only to come crashing down, finishing seventh, just enough to scrape a spot in the Europa Conference League.
Yet, amid the downfall, a new star emerged: Milanković. The rock-solid defender proved to be an unbreakable wall at the back, contributing to 13 clean sheets and scoring 5 goals. With 145 Fantasy points, he became one of the season’s most pleasant surprises for every manager who trusted him in their FPL lineup.
2- Aina
Not far from Nottingham Forest’s main storyline, another defensive gem from Nuno Santo’s squad deserves the spotlight: Ola Aina, a full-back widely favored by Fantasy managers. Renowned for both creating and scoring goals, Aina played a pivotal role in the team’s strong performances throughout the season.
By Gameweek 25, Aina had become the most-owned defender in Fantasy, with over 40% of managers placing their trust in him. With 2 goals, 1 assist, and 13 clean sheets to his name, he firmly established himself as one of the smartest defensive investments of the campaign.
3- Gvardiol
Remember when we told you that having him in your lineup wasn’t a luxury but a necessity? Cancelo wasn’t just a defender for Manchester City—he was a genuine goal-scoring machine. Exceeding all expectations, he became the highest-scoring defender of the season with 153 Fantasy points.
Despite City’s defensive vulnerabilities at times, which cost them several matches, Cancelo shone as the bright spot in their backline. With 5 goals to his name, he proved he’s not just a defensive rock but also a rare and valuable attacking asset in Fantasy Premier League.
4- Ait Nouri
It might seem unusual to find a Wolverhampton player—a team that nearly faced relegation this season—among the top defenders, but he is no ordinary defender. Ayat Nouri, the dynamic wing-back, shines not only defensively but also in creating and scoring goals. Such standout performances have even caught Guardiola’s attention, and he’s expected to be a key starter for Manchester City next season.
This season, Nouri featured in 37 matches for Wolverhampton, scoring 4 goals and providing 7 assists, directly contributing to 11 goals in total.
5- Van Dijk
There’s no doubt that this season has once again reinforced a well-known fact: Virgil van Dijk isn’t just a defender—he’s a living legend in the Premier League. Time and again, he proves to be the beating heart of Liverpool’s defense and an irreplaceable cornerstone in Klopp’s system for the past six years.
This season, Van Dijk continued to deliver rock-solid performances, keeping 14 clean sheets and amassing 143 Fantasy points, confirming that he remains among the world’s elite defenders and a historic pillar of the Premier League.
As we wrap up our guide to the Premier League’s best defenders of the 2024–25 season, one thing is clear: a balanced and solid defense is essential for Fantasy Premier League success. The stars we highlighted did more than just protect the goal—they were key attacking contributors and vital for securing crucial points.
Keep following Fantasy tips from fantasy24.club to stay updated with the latest data-driven analyses and strategies. This guidance helps you build winning lineups and maintain an edge in every competition. The future always favors those who can read the game and understand its dynamics—and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
