Right-back: Chendo
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Miguel Porlán Noguera or Chendo as he is more commonly known as takes up the right-back position, beating Michel Salgado in the running. A graduate of the Real Madrid youth academy after joining them at the age of 15, Chendo has spent his entire professional career at the club – helping them win seven league titles, two Copa del Rey cups and one Champions League trophy over seventeen seasons and 497 matches.
He was a key member of the 80’s Real Madrid team which had won five consecutive La Liga titles. These numbers speak for themselves. His association with the club didn’t end after his retirement as he now serves as the match delegate for the first team.
CB: Fernando Hierro
‘The total footballer’ is how Real Madrid describe Hierro on their official website, and there couldn’t be a better way to put things into perspective. He knew how to score goals, pass the ball accurately, win the ball in the air, position himself on the pitch – basically every quality a manager would want in his player.
In his 14 years at the club, Hierro managed to score 127 goals – a feat that is no joke for a player in his position.
With over 600 appearances for the Blancos, he stands out as one of the club’s most loyal players, leading them to five successful league campaigns and three Champions League victories. He recently served the club as Carlo Ancelotti’s assistant manager.
CB: José Santamaría
There was a reason the Real Madrid team led by Gento, Di Stefano, and Puskas were so successful in the '50s and '60s. It was because of the sense of security that Santamaria offered at the back.
Leading the Madrid defence, he became a reliable figure and earned the nickname 'The Wall' for his consistent display. He represented Real Madrid in 337 official games, bagging five league titles and four European cups.
LB: Roberto Carlos
“Hey, have you watched that Roberto Carlos free-kick goal?” is perhaps a question every football fan has asked their friends, and if you don’t know what I am talking about, please feel free to look it up on Youtube. It will be the greatest thing you will see today.
The Brazilian left back was known for his attacking prowess and set-piece abilities. He was definitely one of the first full-backs to make overlapping runs a thing - inspiring a whole generation of attacking full-backs.
In his 11 seasons with Real Madrid, Carlos played a crucial role in helping the club win three European Cup titles and four La Liga titles.
