5 best U-23 defenders in the world right now

Samuel Umtiti
Samuel Umtiti looks to be the future at the back for Barcelona

#3 Hector Bellerin (Arsenal)

 Hector Bellerin
Bellerin is quickly becoming one of the best full-backs in the business

When you're looking for a full-back in the modern game, it's difficult to find anyone with the potential to both attack and defend as far too regularly players are unable to defend and regular neglect their responsibilities. Bellerin’s blistering pace combined with his awareness on the flanks have made sure he’s a steady first-teamer member of Arsene Wenger’s side.

Bellerin's arrival into the first-team fold appeared by accident when Mathieu Debuchy injured his ankle ligaments in September 2014. Since then, the 21-year-old has become a prominent figure in the Gunners line-up and is regularly linked with a move to Barcelona.

The former winger has the potential to become a Premier League legend at Arsenal, and could easily emulate the success of Lee Dixon if he opts to remain in North-London for the foreseeable future. With the opportunity to build a legacy at the Emirates Stadium, Bellerin could be incredibly foolish to look elsewhere to play regularly. This is one full-back we could be discussing in a similar bracket to Gary Neville and Ashley Cole if the player continues his progression in a similar fashion.

Quick Links

Edited by Staff Editor
Sportskeeda logo
Close menu
WWE
WWE
NBA
NBA
NFL
NFL
MMA
MMA
Tennis
Tennis
NHL
NHL
Golf
Golf
MLB
MLB
Soccer
Soccer
F1
F1
WNBA
WNBA
More
More
bell-icon Manage notifications