When it comes to attacking football, the English premier league is known for its attacking style of play. The English premier league managed to pull out 1,246 goals from the 2023/2024 season alone. But over the years we have seen the best defensive team in the premier league with amazing records. However, which of the clubs has the best defensive record in premier league history.
Exceptional defensive records not only reflect a team’s strength at the back but also their tactical discipline and resilience. Here, we delve into some of the best defensive record in Premier League history that have defined the league’s legendary defenses.
Which premier league team has the best defense
Have you held of the Special one era and the Fergies and Wenger’s era in the English premier league, well here is our list of best defensive record in premier league history.
1. Chelsea’s 2004-05 Defensive Masterclass
Under the management of José Mourinho, Chelsea set a new benchmark for defensive teams in the Premier League during the 2004-05 season. The Blues conceded just 15 goals throughout the campaign, 25 clean sheets and 95 points.
The combination of good defenders like John Terry and Ricardo Carvalho, Chelsea’s defense was difficult to break. This incredible record helped them secure the Premier League title with 95 points, highlighting their dominance and defensive strength.
Till date this record has placed both John Terry and Carvalho in the top 5 best defenders in the word.
The Fergies and Wenger’s era was paused by Mourinho in his first season at Chelsea. Signing his former Porto player Ricardo Carvalho who they both won the champions league at Porto.
Chelsea and Mourinho went ahead and also retained the record the next 2005/2006 season. Conceding just 22 goals in the premier league, making it a two straight win for Mourinho the “Special One” and his boys.
The team won their first 9 opening season games with 6 clean sheets, winning the league with 20 clean sheets in 38 games.
Chelsea therefore, hold the best defensive record in premier league history under Jose Mourinho.
2. Manchester United’s 1993-94 Title-Winning Defense
During the 1993-94 season, Manchester United showcased a defensive record that played a key role in their title triumph. The team conceded only 24 goals, this was a proof to the strength and organization of their defense.
With players like Steve Bruce and Gary Pallister leading the defense, United’s defense was unbreakable which resulted in their successful campaign.
Their defense line was part the reason why Manchester United dominated the English premier league for years. After the era of Steve Bruce and Gary Pallister we also saw the likes of Rio Ferdinand and Vidic.
3. Arsenal’s Invincible Defense of 2003-04
Arsenal’s “Invincibles” season in 2003-04 is legendary for its unbeaten run, but their defensive record also deserves to be praised. The Gunners conceded just 26 goals throughout the campaign, showcasing a defense that was capable of playing on any ground.
Led by the experienced duo of Sol Campbell and Kolo Touré, Arsenal’s defense was key to their historic achievement of going an entire league season without losing a single match.
Sol Campbell remains one of the best defenders to ever play football, his spell at Arsenal was nothing but excellence and brilliant performance.
4. Liverpool’s 2018-19 Defensive Brilliance
Liverpool’s defensive record during the 2018-19 season played a key role in their successful Champions League campaign. The Reds conceded only 22 goals, demonstrating why they were the best team in the tournament.
With Virgil van Dijk, who was the main defender, and the defensive contributions of Andrew Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool’s defense made the team compete for several domestic trophies.
Virgil Van Dijk was also nominated for the ballon d’or due to his outstanding performance for Liverpool.
5. Manchester City’s 2017-18 Defensive Discipline
In the 2017-18 season, Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola, achieved a record-breaking campaign with their defensive discipline playing a key role.
City conceded only 27 goals throughout the season, complementing their dangerous attack. The partnership of Nicolás Otamendi and John Stones, along with the contributions of goalkeeper Ederson, was essential in securing the Premier League title with a record 100 points.
These defensive and attacking records broke Chelsea and Mourinho’s 95 points helping City’s dominance in the Premier League.
While attacking football often gets the most attention, these teams demonstrated that a strong, disciplined defense is equally crucial in securing trophies and making history.
