A ball-playing centre-back is a type of defender who is skilled at playing with the ball at their feet and frequently contributes to the team’s offence from a defensive position. They are comfortable receiving the ball, passing it effectively, and occasionally driving it forward to generate opportunities.
This rating is primarily based on players who have played centre-back this season, omitting those who have mostly played as right-backs or left-backs but have occasionally played centrally.
The role of the centre back has evolved. It is no longer just about tackles and aerial duels; it is about how you initiate the assault, break the press, and control the tempo. These 20 players are now performing better than anyone else.
20. Jonathan Tah
A crucial component in Leverkusen’s historic season under Xabi Alonso. Tah has been a reliable defender while also excelling at stepping into midfield and distributing under pressure.
19. Manuel Akanji
Akanji is a reliable and composed centre-back who can break lines with accurate passes. His involvement in the Bundesliga and Premier League speaks loudly.
18. Aymeric Laporte
Laporte is now in Saudi Arabia, but he still has one of the best left feet in the world of football. He was instrumental in City’s development for years and continues to demonstrate his skill on the pitch.
17. Dean Huijsen.
Huijsen, a rising star and young prodigy, has piqued the interest of many with his ball control and intelligence in possession. Already demonstrating potential as a future top-tier ball-playing defender.
16. Dayot Upamecano
Although unpredictable at times, his physicality and passing range put him on this list. When focused, Upamecano is difficult to beat or push.
15. Lenny Yoro
Another teen sensation. Yoro’s passing is smooth, confident, and always advancing. His performances this season have drew the attention of Europe’s top teams, and for good cause.
14. Levi Colwill.
Colwill is still settling into his role at Chelsea, but he possesses all the characteristics of a quality ball-playing defender. Comfortable on the left, reads the game effectively, and does not panic during possession.
13. Ibrahima Konaté
Powerful, fast, and improves technically year after year. Konaté isn’t a natural ball player yet, but his distribution and buildup skills have improved significantly.
12. Cristian Romero.
Romero is naturally aggressive, but he is also far better on the ball than his reputation suggests. He’s a risk-taker, sometimes too much, but Spurs rely on his vertical passing to get ahead.
11. William Pacho.
Pacho has developed as one of Ligue 1’s most promising defenders. He’s swiftly establishing himself as a top-tier modern centre-back, strong in duels and competent in tight spaces.
10. Marquinho.
When PSG is looking to build from the back, the Brazilian veteran remains a reliable option. His experience and understanding of the game enable him to break lines with simple, effective passes.
9. Lisandro Martinez
When appropriate. Lisandro adds a combination of strength and elegance to Manchester United’s defence. The Argentine is a contemporary centre-back through and through, capable of receiving the ball under pressure, threading passes between the lines, and stepping into midfield with confidence.
8. John Stones
When healthy, Stones resembles a deep-lying midfielder in disguise. He’s technically sound, progressive in his passing, and at ease stepping high into midfield zones.
7. Pau Cubarsí
Only 17 years old, yet already playing like a seasoned professional. Cubarsí demonstrates exceptional decision-making, vision, and ball-handling abilities for his age. A unique talent.
6. Inigo Martínez
When it comes to ball distribution, he is one of Europe’s most underestimated centre backs. Iñigo brings balance and experience to Barcelona’s build-up, particularly with his quick left foot.
5. Virgil Van Dijk.
Still powerful in duels, but it’s his poise in possession that distinguishes him. Van Dijk seldom appears ruffled and continues to be Liverpool’s calming presence in the back.
4) Alessandro Bastoni
Inter’s deep-lying playmaker on defence. Bastoni’s passing range, particularly diagonals, and ability to transition into midfield make him a valuable asset against deep blocks.
3. Gabriel Magalhães.
Left-footed, aggressive, and increasingly reliant on possession. Gabriel is a wonderful match to Saliba and has developed into one of Europe’s most dependable ball-playing centre backs.
2. William Saliba.
A Rolls-Royce of a defenseman. Saliba has been at the heart of Arsenal’s build-up play throughout the season. Smooth on the ball, difficult to press, and confident in moving it forward.
1. Ruben Dias.
Manchester City’s backline skipper remains one of the game’s most complete defenders. He’s more than simply a physical presence; he’s composed, effortlessly picks out vertical throws, and routinely makes sound judgements under duress.
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