January 22, 2025

The 10 Greatest Central Defenders in Football History

The center-back position is incredibly vital in any modern football lineup. They serve as the last line of defense before the goalkeeper and the home team’s goal. A team with a strong pair of center-backs can effectively thwart opponents’ attacks while facilitating smoother counter-attacks for their own side. Today, let’s dive into Xoilac list of the top 10 center-backs in the world for 2024!

Naming the top 10 best central defenders in the world of football

These days, there are numerous talented center-backs showcasing their skills in various clubs and national teams around the globe. Here’s a rundown of the top 10 center-backs in the world!

1. Ruben Dias

Ruben Dias has claimed the top spot on the list of the world’s best center-backs. The Portuguese defender has had an outstanding season with Manchester City and the Portugal national team. He was honored as the Premier League Player of the Season for 2020/2021, awarded by the Football Writers’ Association (FWA). With such remarkable achievements, it’s no surprise that Ruben Dias is recognized as one of the finest defenders in the world today!

Ruben Dias

2. Leonardo Bonucci

Leonardo Bonucci is an Italian center-back currently playing for Juventus and the national team. This seasoned defender has had a remarkable season in Serie A and is set to play a crucial role in Italy’s top league in 2021. At 36 years old, Bonucci continues to showcase impressive form, solidifying his status as one of the best center-backs in the world.

Leonardo Bonucci

3. Marquinhos

Marquinhos is currently in outstanding form and serves as an irreplaceable captain for PSG. The Brazilian center-back is also a key player for the national team.

In addition to his role as a center-back, he takes on the position of right-back for his club. Given his remarkable achievements in recent seasons, Marquinhos undoubtedly deserves a spot among the top three best center-backs in the world at this moment.

Marquinhos

4. David Alaba

David Alaba was once regarded as one of the finest full-backs in the world during his time at Bayern Munich. However, he made the bold decision to join Real Madrid, where he transitioned into a central defender role.

With his consistent performances, Alaba became a key player in helping Real Madrid clinch the UEFA Champions League title in the 2021/2022 season. It’s no surprise that he ranks fourth on the list of the best center-backs in the world!

David Alaba

5. Stefan Savic

Stefan Savic had an incredibly successful season as he helped Atlético de Madrid clinch the La Liga title in the 2020/2021 campaign. Unfortunately, during the 2021/2022 season, he and his team were unable to defend their championship.

The Montenegrin center-back played a crucial role in solidifying Atlético de Madrid’s defense, making it as sturdy as a rock wall. Given his impressive performances on the pitch, it’s clear that Stefan Savic deserves a spot among the best defenders in the world today.

Stefan Savic

6. Eder Militao

Éder Militão is currently a central defender for Real Madrid and the Brazilian national team. He has formed a formidable partnership with David Alaba, creating an impenetrable defense for Real Madrid. With his outstanding performances that helped the team clinch the Champions League title, Éder Militão has earned himself a spot in the conversation for one of the best defenders in the world.

Eder Militao

7. Raphael Varane

Raphael Varane was once an irreplaceable piece of the Real Madrid puzzle. However, after some changes, he has officially made his move to Manchester United in the Premier League.

In his first season donning the MU jersey, Varane has proven to be a reliable presence in the team’s defense. Despite Manchester United’s struggles at the back last season, Varane still stands out as one of the best center-backs in the world today.

 Raphael Varane

8. Pau Torres

Pau Torres is currently a key center-back for both Villarreal and the Spanish national team. His impressive performances during EURO 2021 helped him secure the 8th spot on the list of the best center-backs in the world.

Pau Torres

9. John Stones

John Stones is a young center-back who has played alongside Rúben Dias at Manchester City. With his impressive performances in recent seasons, he has firmly established himself as a key player in City’s solid lineup.

John Stones

He also showcased his exceptional form while representing the England national team during Euro 2021, helping lead the squad to the finals. It’s no surprise that he has earned a spot on the list of the world’s top defenders!

10. Milan Skriniar

Milan Škriniar is a highly experienced center-back who has been in outstanding form in Serie A over the past few years. He played a crucial role in Inter Milan’s triumph in the 2020/2021 Serie A season and helped the team secure a second-place finish in 2021/2022.

Milan Skriniar

 With his impressive performances, Milan Škriniar has firmly established himself among the top 10 defenders in the world. For continuous updates on Milan Škriniar’s career journey, be sure to check out xoilac tv!

Conclusion

From the article above, you’ve discovered some of the top defenders in the world. We’ll keep bringing you more valuable insights about the football universe, so make sure to stay tuned for our upcoming posts!

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