Manchester City’s star winger, Jack Grealish, recently revealed the defender he considers one of his toughest opponents in professional football—Aaron Wan-Bissaka, the current West Ham United right-back. Despite facing some of the best defenders in the game throughout his career, Grealish singled out Wan-Bissaka as one of the very best, citing his formidable one-on-one defending skills as a primary reason. His comments offer high praise, particularly given Grealish’s experience against world-class defenders both in the Premier League and on the international stage.
Jack Grealish, known for his dribbling skills, creativity, and ability to draw fouls, has become one of the most recognizable and challenging attackers to defend against in modern football. This reputation makes his assessment of defenders particularly significant. While appearing on Sky Sports, the 29-year-old England international was asked to rank the top defenders he has faced in his career. Grealish did not hesitate to include Wan-Bissaka in his top three, emphasizing the West Ham right-back’s exceptional one-on-one defensive abilities. “Yeah, [I’d have Wan-Bissaka in my top three],” Grealish said. “I think he is really good at one-vs-one defending. Sliding tackles… he loves it.”
Wan-Bissaka’s ability to excel in one-on-one duels is a well-known aspect of his game, earning him a reputation as one of the best defenders in the league in these situations. His knack for executing perfectly timed sliding tackles has become a hallmark of his style, making him a challenging opponent for any attacking player. Grealish’s praise highlights just how effective the 26-year-old right-back can be in neutralizing some of the most skillful attackers in the game.
Wan-Bissaka, who began his professional career at Crystal Palace, moved to Manchester United in 2019 for a significant transfer fee. At Old Trafford, he quickly established himself as a defensive stalwart, known for his exceptional tackling and ability to shut down wingers on his side of the pitch. Despite some criticism over his offensive contributions and crossing abilities, his defensive prowess was rarely questioned. This defensive strength made Wan-Bissaka a regular in Manchester United’s lineup for several seasons, solidifying his status as one of the best one-on-one defenders in the Premier League.
However, in the summer transfer window of 2024, Wan-Bissaka made a surprise move to West Ham United for £15 million. The transfer followed a period of mixed fortunes at Manchester United, where competition for the right-back position intensified with the emergence of other players. His decision to join West Ham has given him a fresh start and the opportunity to continue showcasing his defensive skills at a high level in the Premier League.
For Grealish, Wan-Bissaka’s transfer hasn’t diminished the defender’s status as one of his toughest adversaries. The two have faced off numerous times, with Grealish often finding himself tested by Wan-Bissaka’s quick reflexes, sharp positioning, and ability to time challenges with precision. “Sliding tackles… he loves it,” Grealish noted, emphasizing Wan-Bissaka’s fearless approach to defending and his willingness to put himself on the line to win back possession. Such qualities make him a unique challenge for attackers who rely on dribbling and quick changes in direction, as Wan-Bissaka rarely shies away from a tackle, even in high-pressure situations.
Grealish’s respect for Wan-Bissaka’s abilities speaks volumes, considering the Manchester City winger’s own rise to prominence over the past few years. Since his high-profile move from Aston Villa to Manchester City, Grealish has evolved into one of the key players for both club and country. His skillset, which combines flair, creativity, and a relentless work ethic, has made him a consistent threat in the final third of the pitch. This is precisely why his acknowledgment of Wan-Bissaka as a top-tier defender is noteworthy—Grealish has tested the skills of many of the world’s best, and Wan-Bissaka’s ability to make his list of top defenders underscores the West Ham player’s defensive impact.
Wan-Bissaka’s journey from Manchester United to West Ham reflects his resilience and ability to adapt, characteristics that have helped him remain a standout defender despite the challenges he has faced. At West Ham, he has already begun to integrate into David Moyes’ system, bringing the defensive solidity he’s known for to a side that prides itself on hard work and organization. His presence at right-back has bolstered the team’s defense, adding an extra layer of security against the Premier League’s best wingers.
Grealish’s comments also highlight the evolution of the full-back role in modern football. In recent years, the position has transformed, with many full-backs expected to contribute as much in attack as they do in defense. Wan-Bissaka, however, remains a more traditional defender, excelling in his defensive duties with unmatched dedication. His preference for strong defensive play and his ability to frustrate attackers in one-on-one situations sets him apart from more attack-minded full-backs, making him a unique asset in today’s game.
For Grealish, a player known for his creativity and attacking flair, facing a defender like Wan-Bissaka presents a unique challenge. The City winger’s admiration for Wan-Bissaka’s style is a testament to the defender’s effectiveness, particularly in an era where offensive skills are often prioritized. Wan-Bissaka’s ability to disrupt play, anticipate opponents’ movements, and execute precise tackles makes him a formidable opponent, even for the most skilled dribblers in the league.
As both players continue their careers in the Premier League, their on-field battles are likely to remain a highlight for fans. Wan-Bissaka’s move to West Ham has not only given him a fresh opportunity to prove himself but also keeps alive the potential for future duels with Grealish, as West Ham seeks to challenge the Premier League’s elite teams. With the respect and recognition of top attackers like Grealish, Wan-Bissaka’s reputation as one of the best defenders in the league seems firmly established, even as he adapts to new challenges with his new club.
Jack Grealish’s endorsement of Aaron Wan-Bissaka underscores the importance of solid defending in the modern game and the lasting impact that a truly skilled defender can have. It’s clear that despite the attacking emphasis in contemporary football, players like Wan-Bissaka, who remain committed to defensive excellence, continue to be highly valued—and for good reason. For now, Grealish’s acknowledgment serves as a reminder that, even among a generation of emerging talent and evolving roles, the fundamentals of great defending are still deeply respected and essential to the game.