Ranking the 5 best center-backs in World Football

#1 Sergio Ramos

The Real Madrid captain tops the list

Given his incredible list of career accomplishments, no other man is right for the top spot besides Sergio Ramos. He has been the main man at the back for both Real Madrid and Spain since 2005, having had a phenomenal career in the 14 years since.

Ramos has been in the FIFPro World XI 9 times, and UEFA Team of the Year 8 times, both records for a defender. He has over 600 appearances for Real Madrid, also showing a goal threat with 84 goals to his name.

As the quintessential modern center-back, he has everything that you look for in the position. He has a phenomenal ability in the air, able to outjump opposing center-forwards and providing a great threat from corners.

His ability to play out from the back is among the world’s best, as is his elite athleticism and recovery speed for the position. Ramos’ list of accomplishments is incredible, featuring 4 La Liga titles, 4 Champions Leagues and a Fifa World Cup with Spain. Combine this with his elite level of sustained play and he rightfully sits atop this list.