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#3 Danilo Soares (69)
Danilo Soares has been one of the full-backs to watch in the Bundesliga this season. Part of the newly-promoted VfL Bochum side, the left-back has been one of the more energetic members of the squad. Soares' bustling energy has ensured that he is a presence in both the attacking and defensive phases of the game.
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Bochum have conceded only 27 goals this season, less than 3 out of the Top 4 Bundesliga teams this season. Much of this has been possible due to Soares, who allows little to no crosses from his side of the pitch.
The Brazilian ace also excels in winning the ball high up the pitch, thereby helping in starting counter-attacks. In doing so, Soares has made 69 interceptions in just 18 appearances this season.
The 30-year-old full-back may not have actively contributed to goals yet this term. However, his ball-intercepting abilities have saved Bochum valuable points on multiple occasions.
#2 Milan Badelj (70)
Milan Badelj has been one of the more underrated midfielders in Serie A this season. The Croat joined Genoa in 2020 and has since become a regular member of the starting line-up. Although the Italian club are 19th in the league table, they still have a good chance of staying up, with Badelj playing a huge role in this.
The 32-year-old is a game-changer in the center of the pitch as his tackling ability, coupled with strength on the ball, has made him a great ball-winner. Often acting as a sweeper between the two centre-backs, Badelj has made goal-saving interceptions on a number of occasions this term. This has led to him completing 70 interceptions in 19 appearances this season.
The Croatian ace might be the oldest player in the Genoa squad but his experience in the game makes him their most efficient defensive weapon.
#1 Gleison Bremer (86)
Gleison Bremer has been outstanding in Serie A this season. The 24-year-old, who joined the club back in 2019, has helped Torino exceed expectations this season. After battling relegation in the last two seasons, the side are currently ninth in the league table.
The defense and Bremer, in particular, deserve credit for that. The Turin-based club have conceded the third-least goals this season, only behind title-challengers Napoli and Inter Milan.
The Brazilian centre-back has been a massive aerial presence at the back and wins many duels. His remarkable pace and understanding of the game also help him intercept crosses and through balls.
Bremer has arguably been the best defender in Serie A this season and it is no surprise that a host of European clubs have been linked with him recently.
