Copa America 2021: Team of the tournament

Centre-back - Marquinhos (Brazil / Paris Saint-Germain)

Marquinhos in action for Brazil

Marquinhos was a consistent presence at centre-back throughout Brazil's Copa America 2021 campaign, with Thiago Silva and Eder Militao alternating as his partners.

The Brazilian has flourished at Paris Saint-Germain and is one of the most underrated players in Europe right now. Marquinhos is well regarded for his composure on the ball as well as his physical qualities, while his leadership and intelligence have also been appreciated.

The 27-year old was arguably the best defender at Copa America 2021. Brazil may have lost the final, but Marquinhos can hold his head high.

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Centre-back - Cristian Romero (Argentina / Atalanta)

Argentina v Paraguay: Group A - Copa America Brazil 2021

Cristian Romero was not a consistent presence for Argentina at Copa America 2021, and made only three starts at the tournament.

Injuries saw Romero miss a huge chunk of games at Copa America 2021. However, his influence was extremely evident during his limited minutes. His positional awareness and reading of the game saw Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni start him in the final of Copa America 2021, despite lingering doubts over his fitness.

Cristian Romero is a must in the Argentina back line. He added so much tonight. Gonzalo Montiel was a warrior and Marcos Acuña gave it his all. Emiliano Martinez, haha, I mean what more is there to say about the guy. Very good saves and looked calm out there tonight.

— Roy Nemer (@RoyNemer) July 11, 2021

Romero justified his inclusion in the first XI. The 23-year old was at his dominant best against Brazil, and played a crucial role in stopping many Brazilian attacks. It is not a surprise to see Romero being linked with clubs like Manchester United.

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Centre-back - Nicolas Otamendi (Argentina / Benfica)

Argentina v Croatia: Group D - 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia

Nicolas Otamendi was at his very best in the Copa America 2021 final, rattling opponents and producing his trademark aggressive tackles.

Otamendi's style of play has often been criticised, but there is a reason he started for Manchester City under Pep Guardiola and has been Argentina's first choice centre-back for some time now. Physically gifted and courageous, Otamendi is a team player.

La vieja guardia... 🥇🏆 pic.twitter.com/udoz0NqDlP

— Nicolas Otamendi (@Notamendi30) July 11, 2021

The centre-back has 80 caps for the Argentina senior side and is one of the most experienced members of the squad. At Copa America 2021, Otamendi did little wrong.

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