Idrissa Gana Gueye has become the leading tackler across Europe’s top five leagues this season, a remarkable feat for the 35-year-old Senegalese midfielder who continues to anchor Everton’s midfield with relentless energy and precision.
According to statistics published by WhoScored, Gueye has completed 115 successful tackles so far this season—more than any other player in the Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga or Ligue 1.
The figure underscores not only his exceptional defensive work rate but also his enduring quality at an age when most players begin to fade.
Now in the twilight years of his career, Gueye has remained a mainstay in Everton’s starting eleven.
Week in, week out, his tenacity, timing, and positional intelligence have made him indispensable for David Moyes’ side as they navigate a demanding Premier League campaign.
Despite the physical toll of English football, the veteran midfielder has shown no signs of slowing down.
Gueye’s consistency has drawn admiration not just from fans, but from analysts and coaches alike.
His experience, combined with an almost instinctive reading of the game, allows him to break up opposition play with efficiency few can match.
Whether shielding the backline or launching transitions, his influence stretches far beyond mere numbers.
The former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder has long been recognised for his defensive capabilities, but this season’s statistics place him firmly among Europe’s elite.
In a league renowned for its pace and physicality, Gueye has proven himself to be one of the few who can both keep up and dominate.
His performances have been a bright spot in what has often been a challenging season for Everton.
In a squad undergoing transitions and battling for consistency, Gueye has offered a steady hand, guiding younger teammates and delivering match after match with the same determination that first brought him into the Premier League spotlight years ago.
For Senegal, too, Gueye remains a vital figure. As one of the most experienced members of the national team, his leadership on and off the pitch is considered invaluable.
His ability to maintain such high standards at club level only strengthens his claim as a key figure in the Lions of Teranga’s plans.
What makes Gueye’s season all the more remarkable is the sheer volume of work he undertakes in each game.
Tackling, intercepting, pressing, and recovering possession—his contribution rarely fades as the minutes wear on.
At an age when many midfielders transition into more passive roles or reduce their workload, Gueye appears to be doing the opposite.
His achievements this season are a testament to professionalism, fitness, and an undying competitive spirit.
While his style of play might not always dominate highlight reels, his impact is impossible to ignore—especially when the numbers speak as loudly as they do now.
As Everton continue their push in the league, Gueye stands out not only as a model of longevity but as proof that, even in modern football’s fast-paced environment, experience and hard work still count for everything.
