Best defences in Premier League history: Ranking the five greatest backlines

5. Liverpool - 2018/19: Under Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool's defense was a force to be reckoned with. Trent Alexander-Arnold and Andy Robertson shone defensively, while Alisson Becker and Virgil van Dijk were instrumental in limiting opposition goals. Van Dijk's stellar performances earned him the PFA Player of the Year and Ballon d'Or nominations.

Liverpool finished second in the league with a record 97 points, conceding only 22 goals throughout the season. This was an impressive feat, as only two teams in Premier League history have ever conceded fewer goals in a single season.

4. Arsenal - 1998/99: As Arsenal neared the end of their golden era in the late 1990s, their defense remained resolute. Martin Keown replaced Steve Bould as a regular center-back, but the team still managed to concede just 17 goals during the title defense. The arrival of Thierry Henry further bolstered Arsenal's attack, helping them secure the league title.

3. Arsenal - 2026/27: Currently, Arsenal's defense is considered one of the best in Premier League history. The Gunners have set an impressive defensive record in each of the last four seasons. The addition of Riccardo Calafiori as a full-back and Ezri Konsa for additional defensive depth has only strengthened the team. This season, Arsenal has continued to prove its defensive prowess, with all-time Premier League defensive records set and maintained.

2. Manchester United - 2008/09: Manchester United's 2008/09 defense was nothing short of remarkable. The partnership of Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic was iconic, and the latter even earned the Premier League Player of the Season award. The defense kept 14 consecutive clean sheets between November and February, setting a new top-flight record. Ferdinand's leadership and Vidic's aerial dominance formed the backbone of United's defense during this impressive campaign.

1. Chelsea - 2004/05: Chelsea's 2004/05 defense is arguably the greatest in Premier League history. Jose Mourinho's team built their title-winning squad from the back, adding experienced defenders Paulo Ferreira and Ricardo Carvalho from his successful Porto side, along with John Terry, William Gallas, and Petr Cech. Claude Makelele's leadership in midfield provided additional stability.

The defense kept a record-breaking 25 clean sheets that season, conceding a league-low of just 15 goals. This defensive masterclass remains unmatched in the Premier League's history.