The 25 best centre backs in world football - ranked
A top central defender is like gold dust in the modern footballing climate. It's a role that not only requires exceptional mental and physical attributes, but the ability to lead and organise a defensive line.
There are so few who have mastered the role over the years; even fewer who are still playing. Picking the top 25, then, is quite the undertaking at as part of our2023 Welcome to World Class series.
After plenty of debate, however, we've managed to come up with the definitive list. Please don't disagree, there's been enough of that already.
The new PSG defender has been one of the most consistent performers in Europe for quite some time.
Skriniar is dependable, and that's probably the main thing you want from a centre-back.
Marquinhos arrived at Paris Saint-Germain as a teenager with much hype around his potential.
He's switched from central defence to defensive midfield and back again, becoming the lynchpin as PSG dominate — for the most part — in France.
Now entering his peak years as a defender, Marquinhos is only improving with age and is a vital presence at international level with Brazil.
France are well stacked in central defence and Dayot Upamecano is among their top options thanks to his strength, speed and anticipation.
The centre back is always on the lookout for the right pass forward to get Bayern Munich moving, having impressed under Julian Nagelsmann at former club RB Leipzig.
Newcastle were defensively porous under former boss Steve Bruce but Eddie Howe has made them tough to beat and Sven Botman has played a major role.
A £32m purchase from Lille, the Dutchman has formed a sturdy partnership with Fabian Schar and is ready for another season of Champions League football.
A player who can play both
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