Real Madrid's predicted starting XI for the 2018/19 season

Centre-backs

Sergio Ramos

Mr Real Madrid

Over the years, Sergio Ramos has established himself as the embodiment of the trophy-lusting club he plays for as Mr Real Madrid.

An absolutely Rolls-Royce of a centre-back, there's no denying that the Spaniard has been an influential figure in Real Madrid's success in the seasons gone by. His presence on the field has not only helped Los Blancos at the back but has also helped them pull off life-saving goals many a time.

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Raphaël Varane

Raphaël Varane posing with the World Cup trophy

The tall, formidable yet youthful existence of Raphael Varane in the Real Madrid's backline has saved the club's a** on innumerable occasions.

He recently had a stellar World Cup campaign with the French national team, where he once again showed his true mettle by virtue of his sterling performances in Russia. A complete brick wall at the back, Varane is the perfect foil for Sergio Ramos in Real Madrid's defence as both the World Cup-winning centre-backs get on pretty well.

Valued at £72m, the 25-year-old is the most valuable defender in the world right now.