Assessing the Difficult Task of Ranking Centre-Backs
Centre-backs are one of the most important players on a soccer pitch. They form the backbone of the defensive line which can be the difference between victory and loss. The position of a centre-back is such that it’s difficult to judge their true potential. They may be playing in a system that doesn’t suit them or be protected by their side’s shape. However, this hasn’t stopped us from listing out the best 10 centre-backs in soccer today.
Criteria Used for Ranking
We have evaluated various factors like defensive skills, leadership abilities, versatility, physicality, and goal-scoring ability while assessing these defenders. This ranking has been determined based on an analysis of the best centre-backs out there right now.
The Top Ten Centre-Backs in Soccer Today
1. David Alaba (Real Madrid): The former Bayern Munich player is now at Real Madrid and continues to impress as a centre-back. His remarkable ability, versatility, and strong performances in keeping the ball out of the net as well as creating chances for his teammates make him a complete defender deserving of the top spot.
2. Marquinhos (PSG): Marquinhos is known for his strong performances and leadership abilities, qualities that make him one of the best centre-backs in world soccer today.
3. Ruben Dias (Manchester City): Dias has been a revelation at Manchester City since joining last season from Benfica. He has helped transform City’s defense into one of the best in Europe and his commanding presence at the back makes him an exceptional defender.
4. Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid): Rudiger has been rock-solid at the back for Real Madrid this season and his aggressive defending along with his composed style under pressure shows that he is one of the best defenders in world soccer today.
5. Cristian Romero (Tottenham): Tottenham’s new signing from Atalanta has made an instant impact in the Premier League season. He is a good reader of the game and can pass well from the back, making him one of the most exciting young defenders around.
6. Eder Militao (Real Madrid): The Brazilian youngster has been earning rave reviews for his steady performances and exceptional tackling ability. His steely resolve makes him an exciting prospect for both Real Madrid and Brazil.
7. Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich): A product of RB Leipzig’s academy, Upamecano has impressed with his physicality and defensive skills at Bayern Munich. With his peak years still ahead of him, he could become one of the world’s best defenders soon.
8. Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool): Van Dijk was considered the best centre-back in soccer before his injuries disrupted his progress. However, when fully fit, he remains one of the most dominant defenders in world soccer, using his height and strength to great effect.
9. William Saliba (Arsenal): The young Frenchman has consolidated his spot in France’s senior squad and has performed impressively for Arsenal during his loan spell at Nice this season. His poise and composure on the ball make him a player to watch out for in the coming years.
10. Kim Min-Jae (Napoli): The South Korean defender joined Napoli only in July but has already attracted interest from Europe’s elite clubs due to his dominant displays at the back.
Looking Ahead
The top three players on our list are all 25 years old or younger indicating that their best years are yet to come. It will be interesting to see how they continue to develop as defenders over time. Players like William Saliba and Kim MinJae have emerged as sensations this season and are on track to become some of the top defenders in the coming years.
Conclusion:
This list of the top 10 centre-backs in soccer today is based on our analysis of their performances this season. While there may be many other exceptional defenders out there, the players who have made it to our list are truly exceptional and deserve recognition for their contribution to their teams. Soccer fans can take heart that there are some truly incredible defenders plying their trade out there on the field.
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
