The 12 best defenders of 2015
This year players from seven different teams have been chosen as candidates to make the team of the year. We take a lot at some of the best defenders in Europe:
David Alaba
The Austrian international has quickly become one of the best left wingers in the world, and has showed his ever growing ability with Bayern and his national side.
Diego Godín
Not many would be able to fault Atletico’s captain Diego Godin. 'Solid at the back' is an understatement, this player strikes fear into attackers eyes.
Jerome Boateng
It has taken little time for Guardiola to completely rely on this defender. It’s only been his physical problems that have kept him from being a regular for Bayern.
Javier Mascherano
The Argentine defender was a key piece to the success of Barcelona’s incredible title winning season. Despite his hight he has been pivotal to Barca’s central defense.
Leonardo Bonucci
Bonucci played a big role in helping the Italian’s reach the Champions League finals last season. His presence at the back allows Juve to move forward with ease.
Gerard Piqué
When he’s in form, Pique can be one of the best central defenders in the world. His recovery from injury was key to the successful end to Barcelona’s season.
Giorgio Chiellini
Despite the controversy that surrounds him, he has managed just as well as a central defender as a left winger.
Sergio Ramos
Undoubtably one of the best, if not the best central defender in the world. He has been part of a Real Madrid side that has managed to reach the semi finals of the Champions League for the past five seasons.
Dani Alves
It seems hard to imagine that almost a year ago Alves was being criticized for dropping in form. Move forward to now and the defend won the triple with Barcelona and has been a key player for Luis Enrique ever since.
Ricardo Rodríguez
This surprise player comes from Wolfsburg. At just 23-years-old this left winger has one of the greatest potentials in Europe.
David Luiz
Maybe a negative surprise. He still has scars from the match against Barcelona, where Luis Suarez shattered him.
Thiago Silva
Leader from the back, Silva has demonstrated his incredible abilities over the past year. His goals have been key going forward, and his areal ability is second to none.