Defenders
Right back: Ricardo Pereira
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At right-back, we have OGC Nice's Portuguese defender Ricardo Pereira. The 23-year-old has been one of the team's brightest stars with his consistent performances at the back. Nice are currently third in the Ligue 1, level on points with Paris Saint-Germain, and are only that high because of Pereira's important contributions every game.
He averages an incredible 3.6 clean tackles per game, 2 key interceptions per game and 2.9 clearances per game. Up top, he has a successful pass percentage of 85.4% and has routinely averaged 52 passes per game – one of the highest for any defender in any of Europe's top leagues. He also has 3 assists and 1 goal to his name.
Centre Back: Federico Fazio
At right-centre-back, we have AS Roma's Federico Fazio. The 29-year-old might not have been a success in the English Premier League but he's kicking up quite the storm in the Serie A.
The Argentine is a rock at the back and makes a staggering 7.4 clearances per game – a high in Europe. Combine that with his 2.5 key interceptions per game and his 2 goals and you know why he's on the team.
Centre Back: Loic Perrin
Fazio's partner on the left-hand side of the central defence is another Saint Etienne star, Loic Perrin. The 31-year-old stalwart is the oldest player on this team and thoroughly deserves his inclusion. Perrin is quick to cut out danger, with 2.5 key interceptions per game. He's also really strong in the air and makes 5.5 clearances per game.
Left Back: Alex Sandro
At left-back, we have Juventus’ ever-reliable defender, Alex Sandro. The Brazilian is amongst the most valuable full-backs in the world and that's only because of his equally impressive contributions to both attack and defence.
Sandro has 5 assists and 2 goals to his name; he also makes 2.1 interceptions per game, 2.1 tackles per game and averages 1.9 key passes per game making him one of the most complete defenders in all of the world.
