Top 5 centre-backs in the world this season (2020/21)

#3 John Stones - Manchester City

John Stones has been in fine form for Manchester City

26-year-old centre-back John Stones looked set to leave Manchester City last summer amid suggestions that manager Pep Guardiola had lost confidence in the player.

Cue to this summer, and Stones looks ready to play a key role for England at the Euros after an incredible season so far for Manchester City. The 26-year old has looked imperious for his club, forming an excellent defensive partnership with Ruben Dias.

93% - John Stones has ended on the winning side in 93% of his combined appearances for Manchester City and England this season, with 27 of his 29 outings ending in victories for his team (D1 L1). Charm.

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 31, 2021

Such have been Stones' performances that he has managed to keep Aymeric Laporte out of the side; after a poor season last time around, the former Everton man is at the top of his game.

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#2 David Alaba - Bayern Munich

David Alaba will leave Bayern Munich in the summer

David Alaba has announced that he will leave Bayern Munich on a free transfer in the summer, bringing to an end a long and trophy-laden chapter in his career.

Having made his debut for Bayern Munich in 2010, Alaba has made 421 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring 33 goals. Well-renowned for his versatility, Alaba is capable of playing as a left-back, centre-back, on the wings and in midfield.

David Alaba’s priority: Real Madrid. Verbal agreement, pre-contract almost ready and €12m/season until 2025. Until it’s signed, everything is open as always with free agents. Many clubs are trying to convince Alaba in recent weeks... but Real are still leading the race. ⚪️ #Real https://t.co/vCIKAjwqsi

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 29, 2021

Under manager Hansi Flick, the Austria international has predominantly been used as a centre-back and played a key role as Bayern Munich won the treble last season. The 28-year old has been linked heavily with Real Madrid, while Chelsea, Barcelona and Manchester City have also been suggested as potential destinations.

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#1 Ruben Dias - Manchester City

Ruben Dias in action for Manchester City

Manchester City were linked with quite a few centre-backs last summer. Napoli's Kalidou Koulibaly and Sevilla's Jules Kounde were reportedly close to joining the club, but a move failed to materialize for either of them.

When Manchester City paid Benfica €68 million for Ruben Dias, it was seen as a sign of desperation. However, the centre-back has emphatically responded with world-class performances for Manchester City since his debut for the club.

The Portugal international has seamlessly slotted into Pep Guardiola's backline, forming a strong centre-back partnership with John Stones. The 23-year old has been a constant presence this season, making 38 appearances in all competitions.

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