Maresca names the world’s best as Rodri sets a new club-football record. Caicedo Rodri world’s best defensive midfielders. He says that Moisés Caicedo and Rodri are the two best defensive midfielders in the world. Maresca’s endorsement comes at a moment when both players are at peak form. What makes the statement even more striking is the record that Rodri has just matched and potentially broken. In recent discussions across global football, the role of the defensive midfielder has become more crucial than ever.
These players shield the defence, initiate attacks and help their teams dominate possession. In that context, Maresca’s praise for Caicedo alongside Rodri signals something major. He did not hedge his words. He said simply: “For me, them two are the best.” For Caicedo, who joined Chelsea with high expectations, this is a strong vote of confidence. The Ecuadorian has shown glimpses of elite ability: winning the ball, breaking opposition attacks, and distributing with purpose. In a recent Premier League match, he completed 15 passes in the final third and recorded four interceptions, more than any other player in that game. This kind of impact is what puts him in the conversation with the very best.Rodri, meanwhile, has long been recognised as one of the top players in his position. He plays for Manchester City F.C. and the Spanish national team, and his statistics back up his influence on the pitch.
What adds to his legend is the unbeaten streak he has compiled in club football. A string of 73 matches without defeat, equalling the world record. That feat alone helps justify Maresca’s claim. That record holds special significance in the defensive midfield context. A player in this role often goes unnoticed when the team dominates. But when the team loses less, when progress is steady and the tempo is controlled. The midfield anchor like Rodri stands out even if not always in the headline. The 73-match unbeaten run is a sign of constant, high-level performance across major competitions.
Maresca’s recognition of Caicedo alongside Rodri shows the Chelsea boss believes the Ecuadorian is not just rising but among the elite. Caicedo’s all-round game impresses: his defensive grit, his passing ability and his growing influence in forward phases. He is becoming a complete No. 6. Meanwhile, Rodri continues to do what few others can: dominate games from deep. Break lines, protect his defence and keep his team winning. What does this mean for the wider football world? For one, it refocuses attention on the defensive midfield role as a position of strategic power. With two names now being highlighted as the best in the world at that job. Clubs and coaches might look more closely at players who can perform the dual tasks of defending and initiating attack. For fans, it gives two players to watch: one with the world-record run and the other fast closing the gap.
The timing is also interesting. Chelsea, under Maresca’s guidance, aim to rebuild and challenge again. Having a player like Caicedo thriving gives them a solid foundation. For Manchester City, Rodri remains a cornerstone of their success. His consistency, smart play and record streak make him a benchmark. Of course, praise such as “the best in the world” is heavy. It raises expectations. Caicedo must maintain and build on this level. Rodri must push further perhaps surpass the record and continue leading his team. Yet the statement from Maresca is not empty words: it is rooted in performance, statistics and potential.
In football journalism, big calls attract attention. They spark debates, comparisons and analysis. Maresca has thrown down a gauntlet – and asked the world to judge. Do Caicedo and Rodri deserve the “two best defensive midfielders in the world” tag? The evidence suggests they do. At the very least, both are operating at a level that puts them in the top tier of global midfield talent. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on how leading clubs perform and how their key players shine. When Caicedo steps onto the pitch, fans and commentators will look for his interceptions. His forward passes and his influence on the game’s flow. When Rodri plays, they will watch the unbeaten streak, his discipline, his ability to dictate matches. And the conversation Maresca started about who truly is the best defensive midfielder in the world will continue to grow.
Maresca believes Caicedo and Rodri are the best in the world at their job. Rodri has matched a historic unbeaten run, reinforcing his status. Caicedo is making a strong case to join that elite. Together, they represent the highest standard of the defensive midfield role today.
