Football has evolved, and best defenders are more important than ever. This list includes right-backs, left-backs, and center-backs who excel in their roles and dominate defensively.
List of the Best Defenders in Football
10. Federico Dimarco – Inter Milan
Federico Dimarco is one of the best defenders in football, known for his attacking runs and crossing ability. Playing as a wing-back for Inter Milan, he helped them win the Serie A title with his impressive contributions.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 6 |
| Goal Contributions | 11 (Most among defenders) |
Dimarco is under contract with Inter until 2027. While he can also play as a left-back or left center-back, he is one of the best defenders in attacking football today.
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9. Andy Robertson – Liverpool
Andy Robertson has been among the best defenders since joining Liverpool in 2017. A key part of their Champions League (2019) and Premier League (2020) wins, he remains their first-choice left-back.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Big Chances Created | 10 |
| Rank Among Defenders | 4th |
Despite missing three months due to injury, Robertson will captain Scotland at Euro 2024. Bayern Munich is interested in signing him, but Liverpool is likely to keep one of their defenders.
8. Ronald Araújo – Barcelona
Ronald Araújo is one of the best defenders in La Liga, excelling in physicality and aerial duels. His pace makes him crucial in Barcelona’s defensive setup.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| La Liga Games for Barcelona | 107 |
| Rank Among Current Barça Players | 5th Most |
Despite his red card against PSG in the Champions League, he remains one of the defenders and a future Barcelona captain.
7. Achraf Hakimi – Paris Saint-Germain
Achraf Hakimi is among the best defenders in the world when it comes to attacking full-backs. His pace, dribbling, and link-up play make him an asset for PSG.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Goals in Ligue 1 | 4 |
| Rank Among Right-Backs | 2nd Most |
With two years left on his PSG contract, Hakimi remains one of the defenders who influence games with their attacking threat.
6. John Stones – Manchester City
John Stones is a rare breed among best defenders, comfortable in both defense and midfield. He played a huge role in City’s treble-winning season by stepping into midfield when needed.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Premier League Matches Played | 16 |
| Games Where City Allowed ≤2 Goals | 16 |
| Aerial Duel Success Rate | 73% |
| Pass Completion Rate | 94% |
With a contract until 2026, he remains one of the defenders in modern football.
5. Marquinhos – Paris Saint-Germain
Marquinhos is a leader among the best defenders, combining speed, intelligence, and strength. As PSG’s captain, he has won multiple Ligue 1 titles.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Ligue 1 Titles Won | 9 |
| Rank in Ligue 1 History | Joint Most |
Having signed a contract extension until 2028, Marquinhos remains one of PSG’s defenders and a key player in their title ambitions.
4. Kyle Walker – Manchester City
Kyle Walker is still one of the best defenders despite being 34 years old. His speed and physicality allow him to stop even the quickest wingers.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Pass Completion in Final Third | 91.6% |
| Rank Among Premier League Defenders | 4th Most |
Manchester City convinced him to stay last summer despite Bayern Munich’s interest. If he maintains his level, he will remain among the defenders for years.
3. Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool
Virgil van Dijk is still one of the best defenders in the world. His leadership, aerial dominance, and defensive awareness make him a nightmare for attackers.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Aerial Duels Won in PL | 81.4% |
| Rank Among All Players | 1st |
His contract runs until 2025, and he will be a key figure in Liverpool’s defense as one of the best defenders in the world.
2. Rúben Dias – Manchester City
Rúben Dias is the backbone of City’s defense and one of the best defenders in football. His ability to read the game and play out from the back sets him apart.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Clearances | 180 |
| Blocks | 48 |
| Pass Completion Rate | 93% |
At 26, he is already one of the best defenders, and City is building their future defense around him.
1. William Saliba – Arsenal
William Saliba has emerged as one of the best defenders in the world. His composure, strength, and tactical awareness make him an elite center-back.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Interceptions | 62 |
| Successful Tackles | 75% |
| Duel Win Rate | 80% |
At just 23, Saliba is the future of Arsenal’s defense and could dominate as one of the best defenders for years.
Final Thoughts
This list highlights the best defenders who have dominated in 2024. Whether it’s Van Dijk’s leadership, Walker’s speed, or Saliba’s potential, each of these players is crucial to their teams’ success.
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