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Football Year Ender 2024: Top five defenders who were rock at the heart of defense

By News Update

New Delhi: There’s a long-standing belief in football, attacks win you matches but defenses win you championships and each year we’re reminded why this saying is still relevant. Defenders play a crucial role in shaping the destiny of a football team. While attackers grab headlines with their goals, the unsung heroes in defense often ensure that those goals count for something. In 2024, several defenders rose above the rest, leaving an indelible mark on the game with their grit, skills, and leadership.

There were a lot of names that stunned fans with their spectacular performances but there were few that just missed out on the list for the lack of trophies their sides won in this period. Liverpool’s Virgil Van Dijk is the biggest omission given Liverpool and Netherlands’s lack of silverware in 2024 while Barcelona’s young sensation, Pau Cubarsí is also someone who finds himself unlucky to miss out on this list.

Bayer Leverkusen’s duo of Jonathan Tah and Piero Hincapié also harshly miss out on the top five given Leverkusen’s faltering start to this season. Here’s a look at the top five defenders of the year:

5) William Saliba (Arsenal & France)

At just 23 years old, William Saliba has taken the footballing world by storm. The French centre-back has been pivotal to Arsenal’s rise under Mikel Arteta, forming a formidable partnership with Gabriel Magalhães. Saliba’s blend of strength, speed, and technical brilliance makes him the archetype of a modern defender.

His ability to read the game and anticipate danger has frustrated some of the best strikers, including Erling Haaland. Arsenal’s near-Premier League triumph this year bore the hallmarks of Saliba’s consistency and leadership at the back.

On the international stage, Saliba has cemented his spot as a regular for France, bringing stability and flair to their defense. He was part of the 2024 UEFA Euro Team of the Tournament and was easily his side’s best player at the spectacle in Germany. Despite his youth, he exudes the confidence and composure of a seasoned veteran.

His rapid development and ability to deliver in high-pressure games have drawn admiration from fans and pundits alike. In just 20 appearances throughout 2024, Saliba has helped keep eight clean sheets and is a real threat from set-pieces, making him a vital part of any team.

4) Marc Cucurella (Chelsea & Spain)

Marc Cucurella’s transformation in 2024 has been a remarkable story of perseverance and growth. After a challenging start at Chelsea, the Spanish left-back silenced critics with a stellar year. He has impressed under three different managers this year, starting with Mauricio Pochettino in the first half, Luis de la Fuente in the summer and Enzo Maresca in the second half of the year.

His crowning moment came during Euro 2024, where he played a vital role in Spain’s triumph. Cucurella was named the tournament’s best left-back, delivering a memorable assist in the final to secure victory for La Roja.

His energy, precision in tackles, and ability to contribute in attack have made him indispensable for both club and country. At Chelsea, Cucurella has rediscovered his form, becoming a key figure in their defensive setup. His relentless work ethic and ability to balance defensive duties with attacking runs on the flanks have added a new dimension to Chelsea’s play. In a year of personal and professional growth, Cucurella has firmly established himself as one of the best full-backs in the game.

3) Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool & England)

Trent Alexander-Arnold continues to redefine what it means to be a full-back. The Liverpool star enjoyed a sensational 2024, silencing critics who had questioned his defensive capabilities. While his offensive contributions—clinical free-kicks, pinpoint crosses, and visionary passes—are world-class, this year saw an improvement in his defensive awareness.

He has become a more complete player, helping Liverpool maintain their dominance both domestically and in Europe. In just 19 appearances, Trent has helped Liverpool keep 11 clean sheets this year, highlighting his improved defensive prowess.

Alexander-Arnold’s performances have also kept him in contention for England’s starting XI, showcasing his versatility and creativity on the international stage. The Englishman’s stock continues to rise with links of a high-profile move to Real Madrid.

Trent’s ability to impact games on both ends of the pitch cements his status as one of football’s brightest stars. Liverpool face an uphill battle to keep the Englishman at the club with his contract expiring at the end of the season and top clubs circling the defender.

2) Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid & Germany)

Antonio Rudiger remains a powerhouse in defense, blending raw physicality with sharp defensive instincts. The Real Madrid star has had an unforgettable 2024, leading his team to both La Liga and UEFA Champions League titles. Known for his aggressive, no-nonsense approach, Rudiger is a defender attackers dread facing.

He has often stepped up when Madrid’s defense faced injury crises, showcasing his leadership and resilience. While his style might lack subtlety, it’s undoubtedly effective, as he bullies forwards into submission and disrupts opposition attacks with ease.

Though not without the occasional lapse, Rudiger’s overall influence on the pitch is undeniable. His speed and agility belie his size, allowing him to recover swiftly and shut down counterattacks. Combining experience and adaptability, the German centre-back has proven his worth as one of the best defenders in the world.

As he continues to shine for both club and country, Rudiger’s legacy grows stronger with each passing season. Like Saliba, he’s also kept eight clean sheets in 20 games in the year and he continues to be an important leader at the back for both Real Madrid and Germany while on the field.

1) Alessandro Bastoni (Inter Milan & Italy)

Alessandro Bastoni has solidified his reputation as one of the world’s elite defenders. At Inter Milan, his unique role under Simone Inzaghi demands versatility and intelligence. Bastoni is not just a centre-back; he operates as a playmaker from the back, often roaming into midfield during build-ups and delivering pinpoint inswinging crosses to create chances.

His contributions were instrumental in Inter’s dominance this year, culminating in their 20th Serie A title. His ability to switch seamlessly between zonal and man-marking defenses showcases his tactical acumen.

For Italy, Bastoni has been a defensive cornerstone, standing tall during a transitional phase for the Azzurri. His aerial prowess, composure in one-on-one battles, and knack for threatening during set-pieces make him the complete package.

At just 25, he has become the heir to Italian defensive legends like Giorgio Chiellini while adding his unique modern twist. Bastoni’s influence is felt on both ends of the pitch, ensuring his place among the greats of his generation. Bastoni has had the most dramatic rise of all the defenders on the list this year, earning himself the number-one spot on the list for his immense displays for Inter Milan and Italy.

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