Football Positions
CM, CDM and CAM: What Do They Mean?
Central midfield positions can look similar on a team sheet, but the roles can have different priorities.
CM — Central Midfielder
A central midfielder often helps connect defence and attack. Depending on the team, a CM may pass, carry the ball, press, create chances or support the defence.
CDM — Defensive Midfielder
A defensive midfielder usually operates deeper and helps protect the defence. The role can involve winning the ball, covering space and starting attacks with passes.
CAM — Attacking Midfielder
An attacking midfielder usually plays higher and looks to create chances between the midfield and forward lines. They may provide through balls, crosses or shots.
Roles can overlap
Modern football is flexible. A player listed as a CM may perform defensive or attacking duties depending on the manager’s tactics.