Defence
Left Back: Alex Sandro vs Marcelo
Some say Marcelo has been Real Madrid’s most important player this season... and they’re right. The Madrid fullback has been arguably the best defender in the world this season, and it’s not even for his primary job as a defender. The sight of him bombing down the left touchline for Real has become de rigueur – it’s no wonder that he has a staggering 11 assists this season – the best of any defender in Europe’s Top 5 Leagues. Meanwhile, Alex Sandro has had an impressive season, but simply cannot hold a candle to his fellow countryman. This is as easy a choice as there ever was.
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Winner: Marcelo
Right Back: Dani Alves vs Dani Carvajal
The battle of the Dani’s – although this is a much harder pick. Both Dani Alves and Carvajal have 4 assists this season in the UEFA Champions League, although the former Barcelona man has an impressive 3 goal in the competition this season, one of which was the memorable strike against AS Monaco that brought Juventus to the finale in Cardiff. While Carvajal has the more impressive defensive stats, the clincher for the Brazilian veteran is that he’s simply created more chances (30) than the Spaniard (9). Barcelona miss Dani Alves, but we don’t – it’s an all Brazilian lateral lineup.
Winner: Dani Alves
Centre Back: Giorgio Chiellini vs Sergio Ramos
This is football’s version of Sophie’s Choice – whichever defender I pick is simultaneously the right and wrong answer. Hence, we turn to that fabled old mistress which can settle any argument – stats. The Italian narrowly leads the way in blocks (8), clearances (42) and aerial duels won (65%), although Sergio Ramos comfortably wins more tackles (15) and makes more interceptions (28). It’s hard to separate them as defenders, which is why Sergio Ramos wins out because he has a ‘striker’s soul’ and can provide another 93rd-minute winner.
Winner: Sergio Ramos
Centre Back: Leonardo Bonucci vs Raphael Varane
Even the most ardent Real Madrid fan would struggle to make a case for their young Frenchman here, especially after the Madrid youngster seems to have regressed after an impressive year last season. Varane’s arguably the weak link in the Madrid defence, while Bonucci is one of the best defenders in the world. It’s an easy enough choice to make, and the stats back it up – the Italian has won more tackles, made more clearances and intercepted the ball more often than the Frenchman, although Varane leads the way in aerial duels. A valiant effort, but there is a clear winner here.
Winner: Leonardo Bonucci
