EA FC 25 TOTY: Van Dijk, Saliba, Carvajal, and Grimaldo Shine in Defense

Four Defensive Stars Named in EA FC 25 Team of the Year

The EA FC 25 Team of the Year (TOTY) has recognized the top defenders of 2024, featuring Virgil van Dijk, William Saliba, Dani Carvajal, and Alejandro Grimaldo. Together, they represent the pinnacle of defensive excellence, showcasing extraordinary achievements across the footballing calendar.

Dani Carvajal’s Incredible 2024 Achievements

Dani Carvajal had a historic year, collecting trophies for both Real Madrid and the Spanish national team:

• La Liga winner
• Champions League winner
• Euro 2024 champion
• Multiple individual honors, including FIFPRO World XI and La Liga Team of the Season

Carvajal’s instrumental performances on the world’s biggest stages sparked discussions about him potentially winning the 2024 Ballon d’Or, a rare feat for a defender.

Virgil van Dijk’s Stellar Comeback

Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk proved his class once again in 2024 after overcoming a serious ACL injury. His standout contributions include:

• Carabao Cup winner
• Named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year
• Selected for the FIFPRO World XI

Van Dijk remains a cornerstone of Liverpool’s defense under new manager Arne Slot, cementing his reputation as the world’s best centre-back.

William Saliba: Arsenal’s Defensive Dynamo

At just 23 years old, William Saliba has established himself as one of the best defenders in football. Key achievements include:

• Inclusion in the Euro 2024 Team of the Tournament
• Pivotal role in Arsenal’s second-place finish in the Premier League
• Recognition in The Best FIFA Men’s XI

Saliba’s combination of strength, composure, and technical skill makes him a standout player for both Arsenal and the French national team.

Alejandro Grimaldo’s Historic Bundesliga Campaign

Alejandro Grimaldo, playing for Bayer Leverkusen, enjoyed a phenomenal year, highlighted by:

• Leading Leverkusen to an unbeaten Bundesliga title
• Winning the DFB Pokal and DFL Supercup
• Earning a spot in the Bundesliga Team of the Season

Grimaldo’s attacking contributions from left-back, including double-digit goals and assists, have solidified his status as one of Europe’s top defenders.

The Players They Surpassed

These four defenders edged out a competitive field, including stars like:

• Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
• Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City)
• Ruben Dias (Manchester City)
• Theo Hernandez (AC Milan)
• Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid)

Their inclusion in the EA FC 25 TOTY highlights their impact on club and international stages throughout 2024.