Discover the best Serie A defenders who continue to shine in European football with their skill, leadership, and consistency.
Serie A Defenders Who Still Dominate European Football
For decades, Italian football has been synonymous with world-class defending. From Paolo Maldini to Franco Baresi, Serie A has long been the cradle of elite backline players. In 2025, the tradition continues. Despite increasing competition from other leagues, Serie A defenders remain key figures not only in Italy but across the European football scene. This BP9 article highlights those current defenders who continue to dominate matches at the continental level and reinforce Serie A’s status as a breeding ground for defensive mastery.
Why Serie A Continues to Produce Elite Defenders
Italian football culture emphasizes tactics, positioning, and defensive discipline. Coaches in Serie A are renowned for their organization and strategic approaches, which has shaped generations of defenders. Unlike leagues where defenders are often judged solely by athleticism or goals scored, Serie A maintains a holistic view—rewarding awareness, anticipation, and leadership.
1. Alessandro Bastoni (Inter Milan)
Bastoni has grown into one of Europe’s most reliable left-footed center-backs. With exceptional passing ability and calmness under pressure, he plays a pivotal role in Inter Milan’s build-up play. His performances in the UEFA Champions League have proven that he’s more than just a domestic standout. Bastoni’s mix of physical strength and tactical intelligence has earned him praise even from rival supporters.
2. Gleison Bremer (Juventus)
When Bremer arrived from Torino, many questioned whether he could step up at a club with Juventus’ expectations. He has silenced all doubts. Aerially dominant and tactically disciplined, Bremer has become Juventus’ rock in defense. His performances in European competitions have solidified his reputation as a top-class defender who rarely puts a foot wrong, especially in high-pressure games.
3. Chris Smalling (AS Roma)
The Englishman has enjoyed a renaissance in Rome. While his Manchester United days were riddled with inconsistency, under José Mourinho and now Daniele De Rossi, Smalling has become one of the most respected defenders in Serie A. His Champions League and Europa League experience makes him a valuable leader in Roma’s squad.
4. Fikayo Tomori (AC Milan)
Tomori’s transformation at AC Milan has been impressive. Fast, aggressive, and tactically mature, he’s the type of defender built for the modern game. His standout performances in the Champions League—particularly against high-level opposition—have showcased his ability to thrive under pressure. Tomori’s Serie A journey has also elevated his profile for England’s national team.
5. Min-jae Kim (ex-Napoli)
Though now plying his trade in the Bundesliga, Kim’s foundational leap came in Serie A with Napoli during their 2022–2023 Scudetto-winning season. The South Korean defender combined physicality with sharp reading of the game. His dominant displays against Europe’s elite attackers while at Napoli earned him a move abroad—but his roots in Italian football shaped him into a continental force.
6. Federico Gatti (Juventus)
A late bloomer, Gatti’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable. From playing in Serie C to becoming a Juventus starter, he exemplifies grit and resilience. His recent performances, especially in the Coppa Italia and Europa League fixtures, have proven his ability to go toe-to-toe with Europe’s best.
7. Diego Carlos (Fiorentina)
While better known for his La Liga days, Diego Carlos has found consistency and leadership in Fiorentina’s backline. His physical dominance and knack for timely interventions make him an underrated yet crucial figure in Serie A and in Fiorentina’s European campaigns, particularly in the Conference League.
8. Amir Rrahmani (Napoli)
Rrahmani might not be the flashiest defender, but his tactical positioning and understanding of the game are top-tier. He’s been a key presence in Napoli’s domestic and European campaigns, forming a formidable partnership with Min-jae Kim before his departure. Rrahmani’s influence continues to be felt in both league and continental play.
9. Leonardo Bonucci (ex-Juventus)
Although no longer in his prime or Serie A, Bonucci deserves a mention. His legacy still echoes throughout European football. Until recently, he continued to feature in key UEFA fixtures, guiding Juventus and Italy with his experience and strategic defending. Bonucci exemplifies the long-standing Italian defensive tradition.
10. Giorgio Scalvini (Atalanta)
The 20-year-old is already being touted as the future of Italy’s defense. His calm demeanor, exceptional positioning, and ability to pass through lines make him one of the most exciting young defenders in Europe. Scalvini has already impressed in Europa League outings, and bigger European stages await.
Defensive Quality Still Thrives in Serie A
In an age where football is increasingly focused on attacking flair and high scores, Serie A defenders continue to show the value of organization, composure, and tactical sharpness. Many of these defenders not only excel domestically but are vital to their teams’ performances in the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and beyond.
The presence of seasoned veterans like Smalling and Bonucci alongside emerging stars like Scalvini and Gatti shows the league’s impressive balance of experience and potential. Clubs across Europe still look to Serie A when seeking top-class defensive talent—and for good reason.
Conclusion: The Legacy Lives On
Serie A’s reputation as the fortress of defensive excellence is not a relic of the past—it’s still alive and thriving. From the bustling stadiums of Turin and Milan to the passionate crowds of Rome and Naples, defenders are still revered, still shaping games, and still leading clubs to European success.
If you’re a football fan who values strategy, resilience, and sheer mastery at the back, there’s no better place than the league that continues to set the standard. Support your favorite club, follow your favorite defender, and never underestimate the power of a great backline in the league.