Top 10 South American footballers in the world right now

#7 Nicolas Otamendi

The rock of City

Manchester City have a plethora of attacking talents in the team. Most of the people are in awe of Kevin De Bruyne and David Silva’s ability to create something out of absolutely nothing and yet, it is perhaps the improvement of an Argentine defender that has made all the difference.

Nicolas Otamendi had an indifferent start to his career at the Etihad. This season, however, he has taken his game to another level. Indeed, according to his manager Pep Guardiola, City wouldn’t be where they are now without him.

"We have a Superman in the team, as Nico Otamendi helped us absolutely," said Guardiola.

"Without Nico, it would not be possible, what we have done. Everyone speaks about a bit of players such as Raheem, like David, like Kevin, like Sergio, and they deserve it, but if I would like to point to a player who deserves full respect, for what they have done until now, it’s Nico. Nico has been amazing.”

The fact that City have conceded the least amount of goals in the league—tied with Man United—at 20 from 27 games speaks volumes about Otamendi’s form.