Ranking the 5 best defenders in world football this year (2021)

#3 Ruben Dias

Ruben Dias was named the Premier League's Player of the Year last season

The Manchester City centre-back deserves a lot of praise for his brilliant displays last season. His partnership with John Stones at the heart of the defense was influential in Cityzens winning the Premier League title.

Ruben Dias made 23 appearances for Manchester City across all competitions in 2021. He rewarded Pep Guardiola's faith in him with a string of spectacular displays. He was also named the Premier League Player of the Season.

The Portuguese has carried his spectacular form into the current campaign. He's maintained his spot in the starting line-up, making 24 appearances for the Cityzens across all fronts so far. He also has a record of two goals and three assists to his name.

#2 Reece James

The Englishman continues shining with Chelsea

Despite being just 22 years old, Chelsea right-back Reece James has established himself among the finest defenders in the football world. The Englishman was a regular in the Blues' backline last season, making 47 appearances across continental and domestic competitions.

He recorded one goal and one assist to his name. He was highly influential as Thomas Tuchel's men upset the odds to claim the Champions League crown. Reece James has shown no signs of slowing down this season.

The Englishman has already featured in 22 games for Chelsea across the Premier League, Champions League and the EFL Cup. He's found the back of the net five times so far, setting up another six. He certainly deserves a spot among the best defenders in the world in 2021.

#1 Trent Alexander-Arnold

Arguably the best defender in the world right now

When it comes to rating the best defenders in the world in 2021, not many players can compare with Liverpool's right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold. The Englishman has been a shining light since the beginning of the year, producing eye-catching displays and reaching new milestones in his career.

TAA had an outing to be proud of last season. He scored twice and set up his teammates nine times in 45 games across all fronts. The defender has entered the current campaign in spectacular fashion, running riot for Liverpool on the right-flank of the defense.

So far, he's recorded two goals and 11 assists in 19 appearances across the Premier League and the Champions League. With so many games still left to be played, only time will tell how many goals and assists he'll end the term with.