Ballon d’Or 2018: The best starting XI from the shortlisted 30 players

Left Back: Marcelo

Marcelo

The selection of the Brazilian left back is easy, as he is the only genuine left back among the shortlisted 30! Wales speedster Gareth Bale did start out at this position, however, it is highly unlikely that he could be persuaded to return to his root right now! But even with competition, it is hard to find a better left back in the world right now, because Marcelo is immensely talented and fiercely competitive.

The Brazilian won the Champions League with Real Madrid last year and then had a disappointing World Cup with Brazil, however, Marcelo’s consistency over the years is commendable. It is something that makes him one of the best left-backs in the world and he starts in our Ballon d’Or XI this year at his native position.

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Right Back: Sergio Ramos

Sergio Ramos

There are two reasons why the Spaniard is selected at right back. First, surprisingly, there are no right backs among the shortlisted 30 and Ramos has played at right back at his younger age and could still do a fine job in that position. Second, he will be handy to change tactics and switch to a back 3 in case the team needs a shift in tactics and Marcelo is thrown up wide.

Sergio Ramos is one of the finest defenders around but does have his disciplinary problems. He has had quite a successful 2017/18 season, where he lifted the Club World Cup and the Champions League trophy. As such, Ramos deserves a place in this team, as much for his versatility as for his defensive qualities.