Ranking the 10 best defenders in the world

#6 Kalidou Koulibaly (Napoli)

Koulibaly has been the interest of some top European sides

Many people spoke about the quality and influence of Sarriball in Napoli’s title challenge last season, but their success was really built on the strength of their defence and in particular Koulibaly. He may not play for one of Europe’s big boys, but he has been the subject of interest from the likes of Bayern Munich, Liverpool and Chelsea, but has remained with the Italian side in an attempt to help them win their first Serie A title since 1990.

He will remain hot property for the foreseeable future though, and it may be only a matter of time before he gives in to the temptation of a big money move. He is very much an old fashioned defender. He has the versatility to play anywhere across the backline but does his best job at the centre half, where he is excellent in the air and robust in a challenge. At 27, there is still the possibility that he will get better in the coming years.