Ballon D'or 2016 rejects XI

#2 Giorgio Chiellini

Chiellini is a vital player for both club and country

The legendary defender was a defensive wall for both Juventus and Italy last season and his exclusion from the Ballon D’or shortlist came as a surprise to everyone. The 32-year-old put in some heroic performances for Juventus last season as they won their fifth consecutive league title.

His defensive leadership took Italy to the quarterfinals of Euro-2016 where they lost to Germany in penalties. For his stellar 2015/16 season, Chiellini deserved a place alongside Sergio Ramos, Pepe, and Godin in the Ballon D’or shortlist.