EPL: ‘He surprised me’ – John McGinn names strongest defender he’s faced

Aston Villa midfielder, John McGinn, has named the toughest defender he has played against in the Premier League.

He identified a few players from Arsenal and Manchester United as the strongest defenders he has encountered throughout his career.

The Scotsman stated that Riccardo Calafiori and Luke Shaw are the toughest opponents he has ever faced.

Calafiori transferred to Arsenal from the Italian club Bologna in 2024 for a reported fee of £33.7 million, along with £8.3 million in potential add-ons.

He has made 67 appearances for the Gunners in all competitions and played a pivotal role in their Premier League-winning campaign in 2025-26.

On the other hand, Shaw joined Manchester United from Southampton in 2014 for a reported £30 million, plus £1 million in add-ons. Despite facing numerous injury challenges, he has remained a key player for the Red Devils over the past decade, accumulating 328 appearances across all competitions.

During an appearance on the Stick To Football podcast, McGinn was inquired about the defenders who posed the greatest challenges for him. Bypassing notable names such as William Saliba and Gabriel, the Aston Villa captain remarked (via Metro):

“Do you know who really surprised me? Calafiori. Calafiori and Luke Shaw would be my two hardest opponents. Luke Shaw because I needed to completely adapt my game with him.

“Because we’re of (a) similar build. He’s one I had to completely try and adapt (to). Calafiori was much stronger than I thought, I was really impressed with him.”

Next week, McGinn will face Calafiori once more as Arsenal takes on Aston Villa in a Premier League match scheduled for Monday, August 31.