European XI of the Season for 2017/18

Centre Back: Gerard Pique (FC Barcelona)

Pique is the heart and soul of the Catalans

Gerard Pique has had an exceptional season at Barcelona. Throughout all the off-field antics, including controversial comments about the guard of honour and a potential Catalan independence, the centre-back has performed consistently well on the pitch.

Pique may be a bit too outspoken at times, but there is no doubt that he enjoys the respect of his teammates and that will matter the most to him. In a footballing sense, the tall Spaniard continues developing and has become a rock at the heart of Barcelona's defense.

With a solid 7.16 average rating from whoscored.com, the Catalan is among the top 3 central defenders of La Liga and there are several factors beyond ratings to consider, that are not related to statistics.

6 - Gerard Piqué has scored six goals against Espanyol, his favourite opponent for Barcelona in all competitions. Rivalry. pic.twitter.com/I2VNKKgURP

— OptaJose (@OptaJose) February 5, 2018

Pique has what a true defensive leader needs to elevate himself from the rest. He has the aggression, as well as the ability to organize and lift is fellow players. He lives and breathes Barcelona, something that is becoming unique in modern-day football.

Pique may not be the most attractive defender to watch, but he certainly gets his job done and has an infectious passion for football, that his fellow teammates can feed off of.

While Barcelona didn't quite manage the 'invincible' season, Pique has played a huge part in an impressive league campaign by the Catalans, subsequently earning himself a spot in our European Team of the Season.

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Honourable Mention: Lucas Hernandez (Atletico Madrid)

Another central defender suffering under the heroics of a title-winning rival. Lucas Hernandez is probably the best young defender in Europe right now and, being only 22 years old, he is likely to feature in future teams.