We are here with the list of Top 5 Highest Scoring FPL Defenders This Season for the 25-26 Campaign. The 2025/26 Fantasy Premier League season introduced new defensive contribution metrics, making centre-backs and reliable clean-sheet specialists more valuable than ever. While attacking full-backs still delivered points, it was dominant central defenders who ruled the rankings through clean sheets, bonus points, aerial dominance, and defensive actions. Gabriel Magalhães emerged as the standout performer, while players like Virgil van Dijk and Marcos Senesi proved consistency remains king in FPL.
Here is a look at the top five highest-scoring defenders from the 2025/26 FPL campaign.
5. James Tarkowski – Everton (170 Points)
Few defenders in Fantasy Premier League history have been as reliable as James Tarkowski. The Everton centre-back once again showcased why he is considered one of the safest defensive picks in the game. His durability, consistency, and ability to rack up defensive contribution points made him a weekly starter for many managers.
Tarkowski benefited massively from the updated FPL scoring system, which rewarded clearances, blocks, and interceptions. Even when Everton struggled offensively, the veteran defender continued producing steady returns through clean sheets and bonus points
Additionally, his regular availability and guaranteed minutes became a huge asset in a season filled with rotation risks across top clubs.
4. Marcos Senesi – Bournemouth (175 Points)
Marcos Senesi was arguably the most underrated defender in the league during the 2025/26 campaign. Bournemouth’s impressive defensive record combined with Senesi’s elite ball-playing ability helped him become one of the biggest FPL success stories of the season.
The Argentine defender excelled under the new defensive contribution system and consistently produced returns through interceptions, progressive passing, and clean sheets. He also added attacking value with assists and chances created from deep areas.
Senesi’s remarkable all-around performances earned him 175 FPL points, tying him with Virgil van Dijk while offering managers a cheaper alternative for much of the season.
3. Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool (175 Points)
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk once again reminded everyone why he remains one of the best premium defensive assets in Fantasy Premier League. The Dutchman combined defensive stability with his usual aerial threat from set pieces to deliver another elite campaign.
Van Dijk particularly thrived with the introduction of defensive contribution points. His dominance in clearances and defensive actions gave him a higher floor than most premium defenders, even during matches where Liverpool failed to keep clean sheets.
His guaranteed starts and leadership role also made him one of the safest long-term FPL investments throughout the season.
2. Marc Guéhi – Manchester City/Crystal Palace (179 Points)
Marc Guéhi enjoyed a breakthrough fantasy season that elevated him into the elite category of FPL defenders. Whether at Crystal Palace or after his move to Manchester City, the England international consistently delivered clean sheets, bonus points, and defensive returns.
Guéhi’s calmness on the ball and strong reading of the game made him an ideal fit for Pep Guardiola’s system. His rise also reflected Manchester City’s defensive improvements during the second half of the campaign.
For fantasy managers searching for a dependable yet slightly differential option, Guéhi became one of the smartest picks of the season.
1. Gabriel Magalhães – Arsenal (209 Points)
No defender came close to Gabriel in the 2025/26 Fantasy Premier League season. The Arsenal centre-back dominated the rankings with a massive 209 points, finishing comfortably ahead of every other defender in the game.
Gabriel offered the complete FPL package. Arsenal’s elite defensive structure guaranteed regular clean sheets, while his aerial dominance on attacking set pieces delivered crucial goals throughout the campaign.
The Brazilian also benefited heavily from defensive contribution points thanks to his aggressive style of defending. Many fantasy managers considered him virtually essential for long stretches of the season, especially as Arsenal mounted another title challenge.
By the end of the campaign, Gabriel had firmly established himself as the best defensive asset in Fantasy Premier League for 2025/26.
Conclusion
The 2025/26 FPL season proved that defenders can still be game-changing fantasy assets. With the addition of defensive contribution scoring, centre-backs became more valuable than ever, rewarding consistency and defensive excellence alongside attacking returns.
From Tarkowski’s reliability to Gabriel’s dominance, these five defenders defined the season and played a major role in shaping successful Fantasy Premier League squads.
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