7 Best Ball-playing Centerbacks right now

#2 Gerard Pique (Spain, Barcelona)

FC Barcelona v Deportivo Alaves - La Liga

Pique is the very definition of a ball playing center back, he combines his defending abilities very well with his technique and range of passing. His rise at Barcelona has been because Pique has been able to adapt his game to that of a playmaker from defence, which allows him to be an essential part of Barcelona’s free-flowing style of play.

Pique has a fantastic passing record in La Liga, averaging almost 90% pass completion. The number of passes he attempts on an average per game is also quite good for a defender – approximately 59. He is also very efficient with his long balls. Apart from this, Pique can be often found venturing forward when the opponents are defending deep and he becomes a very important outlet for Barcelona when breaking down such compact teams. Pique has been equally effective while playing for Spain, which saw him win the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the UEFA European Championship 2012.

Pique also chips in vital goals for club and country, which makes him a vital part of both teams. Even though he has had a few bad days at the office, Pique makes very few defensive errors on an average and also concedes fewer fouls, because he uses his technique and ball playing skills to full effect. He also wins more take-on than the average defenders.

Gerard Pique, as such, is one of the greatest ball playing center backs right now and would have certainly topped this list, had it not been for one exciting center back who has won almost everything at a young age.