TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - For many years, the best defenders in the world often get overshadowed by attacking players.
But, true football fans appreciate the crucial position they take for the team, shielding the back-line of any possible imminence from the opposing team.
Blessed with time vigilance, these illustrious talents transform into a beacon of hope at the most vital moment.
List of the Best Defenders in the World
Expert critics from Give Me Sport and ESPN named Virgil Van Dijk, William Saliba, and Achraf Hakimi among the best defenders in the world, all ranked by the trophies they have accomplished thus far. Beyond these powerful performers, some names below are also worth remembering:
1. Virgil Van Dijk
At 33, Virgil Van Dijk has officially become the best defender in the world who received nods from fans and critics alike.
While his long-term injury in 2020 halted his force in the field, Van Dijk came back a lot stronger– having been on the verge of winning the Ballon d’Or.
His ferocious variations also led him and Liverpool to success over Chelsea in the 2023/4 season, which further catapulted Virgil Van Dijk's position as the team’s most important players of all time.
2. William Saliba
In second place, William Saliba didn’t always have it easy. His glorious days began with doubt from all around him as he was indeed a player transformed from Saint-Etienne.
To anyone’s surprise, Saliba proved his worth in Arsenal and set winning percentage to an admirable 62 percent this past season of Premier League. Despite joining the team at average point of the requisite level, William Saliba stands firm on his defensive ability.
3. Achraf Hakimi
Among the best defenders in football, Achraf Hakimi is familiar with trophies. Since joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, he has truly blossomed into a dependable right-hand watchman. In just 4 years in the League 1 championship, Hakimi is credited for 54 goal contributions.
4. Gabriel Magalhaes
Erling Haaland’s strong challenger, Gabriel Magalhaes has been a commanding figure in the field since his first contract with Arsenal back in September 2020.
The 27-year-old defender now executes the best of Nicolas Jover’s maneuvers with fellow talent, William Saliba. And, thanks to his duel power, Arsenal has been closing the games with flying colors in recent times.
5. Alessandro Bastoni
Alessandro Bastoni’s greatness as one of the world’s best defenders is highlighted through his team’s accomplishments in the field, including the 20th Scudetto back in April 2024. His high-achiever mindset has strongly helped striker Lautaro Martinez to strategically position the club in the winning side.
6. Marquinhos
Brazilian footballer, Marquinhos, has been a key player in building back Paris Saint-Germain upon the departure of Kylian Mbappe last summer. While his loyalty to the team deserves a clap of its own, it’s his skillset that put a genuine spotlight on him.
With nearly 500 total games, Marquinhos has won nine league titles throughout his 11-years PSG career.
7. Nuno Mendes
Combining impressive physique and striking techniques, Nuno Mendes swiftly became one of the best defenders in football. In excelling in the games as PSG worthy member, the sensational player is stationed on the left and has notched nine goals along with 18 assists along the way.
8. Ruben Dias
In hindsight, Ruben Dias was notably responsible for the best defense system of Manchester City during their treble-winning trophies of the 2022/23 season. And, this accomplishment isn’t even half of Dias’s entire culmination within the club.
For every bit of City’s triumph since 2019, the defender had a proportional say on them.
9. Pau Cubarsi
The youngest incredible defender on the list, Pau Cubarsi, isn’t only playing for Barcelona, but he also achieved many things.
At only 18, the Espanyol-born has already taken a five-cap International, which further strengthened his position among many other trendy players.
Today, he continues to make waves all around Europe, both for being young and his fantastic talent.
10. Ibrahima Konate
Closing the list, the Paris-born, Ibrahima Konate, has been partnering with fellow strong defender, Virgil van Dijk. If he’s being more careful with the aptitude, Konate is set to follow the path of Van Dijk upon his eventual departure later.
From seasoned veterans like Van Dijk to rising stars such as Pau Cubarsí, these best defenders in the world prove that football’s brilliance isn’t only about scoring goals.
Their resilience, vision, and tactical mastery shape the very backbone of their clubs, often turning tight matches into historic victories.
With similar impact, the fastest football players of all time have also written history after successfully redefining the boundaries of speed on the pitch.
Editor’s Choice: List of Ballon d'Or Award Winners of All Time
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