Definition of defender includes as following ;
Full-Back, Wing-Back, Semi-Side Back, Center-Back, Stopper, Sweeper and Advanced Sweeper.
Full-Back, Wing-Back, Semi-Side Back, Center-Back, Stopper, Sweeper and Advanced Sweeper.
Defenders in the 2-3-5 Metodo system
is considered in either center-back or side-back depend on
role and style of player. In the 3-2-5 W-M system, it is a center-back
alongside twice semi-side-backs. Moreover, Definition includes both full-back in 4-4-2
system and wing-back in 5-3-2 system. Regarding of center-back include both
sweeper and stopper or marker and even attacking sweeper. The sweeping system
was originated by Alexandru Apolzan in the 1950s. The fact of matter, attacking sweeper must be very good in both defensive and offensive skills so they would
be advantage to be considered in higher place. Defending skill and tactical system was
just developed and reached high potential in recent decade especially influence
of defensive style of playing, thereby advantage will be sided on the second part of football history.
50. Alessandro Costacurta
Date
Of Birth : 24 April 1966
Nation
Italy, Caps : 59 Games
Height
: 183 cm, Position : Stopper
Major
Club : AC Milan
World
Cup Participation : 1994, 1998 (11 Games)
Club
Honours : 7 Times Italian Series A, 1 Time Copa Italia
5
Times UEFA Champion League (1989,1990,1994,2003,2007)
3
Times UEFA Champion League Runner-Up (1993,1995,2005)
2
Times Intercontinental Cup (1989, 1990)
International
Honours : 1994 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
Individual
Achievement : None
"Grande Billy" Alessandro Costacurta was one of
the greatest man-markers in the World during the first half 1990s. He formed
the most formidable defensive units ever during his extensive career at Milan.
Costacurta is a tactical versatile defender, could play as center-back and
later as a full-back. He was a gifted and tenacious defender with tactical
intelligence, timing and strong tackling ability. He was also effective in
aerial combat and was outstanding in ability to read the game and anticipated
play with a great positional sense. Costacurta played for AC MIlan in
consecutive 20 seasons, being renowned for his professionalism and longevity
and is known as one of the most decorated footballers ever in international
club competition alongside Paolo Maldini. Due to an extreme high
competitiveness of Italian national team, he debuted lately at 25 years old. He
was never nominated in Ballon'Dor.
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49. Carles Puyol
Position : Center-Back/ Right-Back
Height : 178 cm, Major Club : Barcelona, Caps : 100 Games
World Cup Participation : 2002, 2006, 2010 (14 Games)
Club Honour : 5 Times Spanish La liga, 3 Times Spanish Cup
3 Times UEFA Champion League (2006, 2009, 2011)
2009 FIFA Club World Cup
International Honours : 2008 UEFA Euro, 2010 FIFA World Cup
Individual Achievement : 2006 UEFA Champion League Best Defender
2008 UEFA Euro Best XI, 2010 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
2009 FIFA Confederation Cup Team of the tournament
2010 World Defender of The Year
2010 World Defender of The Year
UEFA Ultimate Team of the year
European Championship All-Time XI
"The
Shark" Carles Puyol was one of the best defenders in the World during
second half 2000s and is one the most decorated defenders ever as being the
main pillar of both Barcelona and Spain in its glory years. He is regarded as
one the greatest captains of all-time, known for his leadership and work ethic.
Mainly a central defender, he was a versatile player who could also feature on
either flank mostly as right-back in the first part of his career. He was
known for his commanding presence in the air despite his modest stature, as
well as his ability to read the game, man-marking skill and ability to organize
the defense including his intense commitment and ruggedness. He was named in
UEFA Team of the year 6 times, FIFPRO World XI 3 times and ESM team of the month 22 times and team of the year 4 times. He was nominated in Ballon'Dor twice om 2006 and 2010. His best
place in BallonDor is 11th in 2010.
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48. Daniel Alves
Date Of Birth : 6 May 1983
Position : Right-Wing-Back, Height : 170 cm
Major Club : Barcelona, Caps : 115 Games
World Cup Participation : 2010, 2014 (9 Games)
Club Honours : 6 Times La Liga, 5 Times Copa Del Rey
1 Time Italian Series A, 1 Time Coppa Italia
1 Time Italian Series A, 1 Time Coppa Italia
2 Times French League, 1 Time French Cup
2 Times UEFA Cup (2006, 2007)
3 Times UEFA Champion League (2009, 2011, 2015)
3 Times FIFA Club World Cup (2009, 2011,2015)
International Honours : 2 Times Copa America (2007, 2019)
2009 FIFA Confederation Cup
Individual Achievement : 2006 UEFA Cup Most Valuable Player
2009 La Liga Defender of The Year
2019 Copa America Best Player
2019 Copa America Best Player
2013 FIFA Confederation Cup team of the tournament
IFFHS CONMEBOL Team of the decade
"The
Trantula" Daniel Alves is the best side-back in the world during the 2010s
and is the best right-back in history of La Liga football and UEFA Champion
League. He was known in particular for his pace, stamina, overlapping attacking
runs and technical skills which also enable him to play as a side-midfielder.
He is renowned for his gift in crossing accuracy and distribution with allow
him to link up with midfielders and made him an effective assist provider with
227 assist in overall career and ability to score from long-range set-piece.
Although not specialized in defensive aspect, he possesses great tenacity and
anticipation to intercept passes or chase down and press opponents. Alves
played 14 seasons in La liga and he met his career highlight with Barcelona in
its golden era. However, Alves was not as successful with Brazil as Barcelona.
He wasn't a regular starter in World Cup during his prime. He was named 5 Times
UEFA Team of the year, 31 Times ESM team of the month and 5 Times ESM team of the year including 8 Times FIFPro World XI.
47. Manuel Amoros
Date Of Birth : 1 February 1962
Nation : France,
Height : 172 cm, Position : Left and Right-Back
Major Club : Olympique Marseile
World Cup Participation : 1982, 1986 (12 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times French Champions, 1 Time French Cup
1993 European Cup Winners, 1991 Runner-Up
International Honours : 1986 FIFA World Cup Third Place
1984 European Championship Winner
Individual Achievement : 1986 French Player Of The Year
1986 European Defender of The Year
1986 FIFA World Cup Best Defender
Manuel Amoros
was a versatile full-back who was able to play both left and right-side without
a significant difference due to his great in both feet. He was an extraordinary
wing-back in the world during 1980s with his fast, excellent movement,
intelligent and skillful with additional great scoring support. Amoros played
his first World Cup as a starter in 1982 in spite of his age 20 year olds only.
He often went forward to play like winger and his elegant style led him as a
popular defender especially his performance in match against Brazil in World
Cup 1986 and he was voted as the best right-back of tournament by
international-press. Amoros was one of the most successful French players
during his time, won the top trophies both club and international competitions.
He was finished 4th European footballer of the year in 1986 and also finished
12th in 1987. He was named in World Soccer XI in 1986 and 1987.
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46. Albert Shestenev
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Date Of Birth : 20 June 1941
Nation : Russia,
Height : 183 cm, Position : Center-Back
Major Club : CSKA Moscow
World Cup Participation : 1962, 1966, 1970 (9 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time USSR League, 1 Time USSR Cup
International Honours : 1964 European’s Nation Cup Runner-Up
Individual Achievement : 1970 Soviet Union Footballer Of The Year
1968 European Championship Team Of Tournament
2 Times European Defender of The Year (1969, 1970)
“Ivan The Terrible” Albert Shesternev is the greatest Soviet Union defender ever and one of the greatest central defenders of the world during the late 1960s. He debut professional career when he was just age of 18 year olds. Shesternev basically played as sweeper, being captain who was everything in defensive line of Soviet Union during his era. He won 90 caps for his nation although there were a lot fewer competitive matches if compare to the present. Many have believed Shesternev would be among world’s greatest defender of all-time if he got permission to play in a famous big club of the Europe. In 1966 World Cup Final, He led Soviet Union reached semi-final round and finishing fourth place. In 1968, He was selected as a starter FIFA World XI against Brazil. Aside from 1970 which he won player of the year of his nation, Shesternev was voted 3rd in 1966, 1968 and 1969. He was nominated in Ballon'Dor four times, finished 14th, 11th and 10th between 1968 and 1970 respectively.
45. Laurent Blanc
_______________________________________
Date Of Birth : 7 September 1968
Nation : France,
Height : 192 cm, Position : Advanced Sweeper
Major Club : Monpellier
World Cup Participation : 1998 (5 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time English Premier League
1 Time French League, 2 Times Coupe De France
International Honours : 1998 FIFA World Cup Champion
2000 European Championship Winners
Individual Achievement : 1990 French Footballer Of The Year
2 times UEFA Euro Best XI (1992,1996,), 1998 Legion De Honour
Laurent Blanc
was voted as the fourth greatest French player of century according to France
Football’s poll. He holds the all-time record most appearances in European
Championship Team Of Tournament with 3. Blanc began his career as offensive
midfielder with Monpellier. Only a few years later did he settle as a defender.
He was one of several club’s players with 9 clubs to play in his overall
career. Blanc scored the first golden goal in World Cup history. He was known
as a surprisingly high-scoring defender, excellent anticipation, elegant
on-the-ball skill style. He was a threat to the opposition’s goal from the air
or from either foot. Blanc played for the middle-level team in the majority of
his career and won few trophies as a result. Blanc scored more than 133 goals
in his career and is named as Inter Milan Player of The Year in 2000. Blanc was
nominated in Ballon'Dor four times, finished best place at 14th in 1998.
44. Ciro Ferrara
Date Of Birth : 11 February 1967
Nation : Italy,
Height : 180 cm, Position : Sweeper
Major Club : Napoli, Juventus
World Cup Participation : 1990 (No Game)
Club Honours : 6 Times Italian Series A
2 Times Copa Italia, 1989 UEFA Cup
1996 UEFA Champion League,
2 Times UFEA Champion League Runner-Up (1997,1998)
2 Times UFEA Champion League Runner-Up (1997,1998)
1996 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : None
Individual Achievement : None
Ciro Ferrara is one of the most underrated defenders ever. He started his career at hometown club Napoli before moving to Juventus and became captain soon after joining the team, and soon became one of the most experienced and decorated players. A true commader in Juventus's backline, being an experienced and dominating defender. Internationally, He was never truly realized despite his impressive tally of caps. There are two reasons for this: First of all, Italy had a host of other world class players in his position that often blocked his route. Secondly, he was very unfortunate with injuries. This was most notable in the buildup to the 1998 World Cup in France. He is not so well-known outside his native-country, but within Italy he is regarded as just another illustrious defender in a long-line of world class Italian defenders. Ferrara is considered as the best defender in series A by media rating once in 1987. He was nominated in Ballon'Dor once in 1997.
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43. Victor Rodriguez Andrade
Caps : 180 Games
World Cup Participation : 2006, 2010, 2014
Club Honours : 5 Times Spanish La Liga
2 Times Copa Del Rey, 3 Times World Club Cup
4 Times UEFA Champion League (2014,2016,2017,2018)
International Honours : 2010 FIFA World Cup
2 Times UEFA Euro Winners (2008, 2012)
Individual Achievement : 5 Times La Liga Best Defender
2005 La Liga Breakthrough Players of the Year
4 Times ESM Team of the Year (2008, 2012, 2015, 2017)
2010 FIFA World Cup All-Star Teams, 2012 UEFA Euro Best XI
2014 FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball
2017 LFP La Liga Player of the Season
2017 UEFA Champion League Best Defender
41. Philippe Lahm
Date Of Birth : 11 November 1983
Date Of Birth : 8 July 1991
Date Of Birth : 2 May 1927
Nation : Uruguay
Caps. : 42 Games
Nation : Uruguay
Caps. : 42 Games
Position : Left and Right-Wing-Back
Height : 169 cm
Major Club : Penarol
Major Club : Penarol
World Cup Participation : 1950, 1954 (9 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times Uruguay Champions
International Honours : 1950 FIFA World Cup Champion
1956 Copa America Winner
Individual Achievement : 1950 FIFA World Cup Best XI
1956 South American Championship Best XI
Victor Rodriguez Andrade was the greatest half-backs in the World during the 1st half 1950s, could operate in the both side from his effective two feet according to the metodo system. He was regarded as a successor as a nephew of Jose Leandro Andrade. V.R.Andrade was a complete defensive player with considerable physical and technical asset and help the great balance between defensive and offensive role. He start career at Central Espanyol and moved for Penarol where he met his peak career. He was best known for his highlight at the 1950 world cup final when he was assigned to mark the great Brazilian Zizinho and his performance result is one o fthe keys to help Uruguay win the trophy. Andrade was also successful in the 1954 World Cup and is the only Uruguayan player in his generation to win both World Cup and South American championship which is its first trophy within 10 years.
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42. Sergio Ramos
Date Of Birth : 30 March 1986
Nation : Spain, Height : 183 cm
Caps : 180 Games
World Cup Participation : 2006, 2010, 2014
Club Honours : 5 Times Spanish La Liga
2 Times Copa Del Rey, 3 Times World Club Cup
4 Times UEFA Champion League (2014,2016,2017,2018)
International Honours : 2010 FIFA World Cup
2 Times UEFA Euro Winners (2008, 2012)
Individual Achievement : 5 Times La Liga Best Defender
2005 La Liga Breakthrough Players of the Year
4 Times ESM Team of the Year (2008, 2012, 2015, 2017)
2010 FIFA World Cup All-Star Teams, 2012 UEFA Euro Best XI
2014 FIFA Club World Cup Golden Ball
2017 LFP La Liga Player of the Season
2017 UEFA Champion League Best Defender
2 Times World Defender of the Year (2014, 2017)
IFFHS World Best Defender of The Decade
"The Tarzan" Sergio Ramos is the most decorated defender ever and the greatest defender of the world during the mid-2010s and is known as the most important defender of Real Madrid in is dominant era that won UEFA Champion League 4 times. Ramos is not known as being world-class in his defensive skill but he is extraordinary in offensive skill, excel in air due to his elevation and heading accuracy and very dangerous in set-pieces. He is an aggressive tackler and is gifted with pace, technical ability as well as great distribution. He is one of fastest footballer in a long run with 30.6 Km per hour. He is tactically versatile allowed him to deploy as full-back at beginning of his career and center-back in his prime career. He incredibly won 2014 FIFA CLub World Cup top scorer, proving him being excellent in scoring task which he made around 90 goals through his career. His is named in FIFPro World XI 8 times, UEFA team of the year 7 times and ESM team of the month 26 times and team of the year 4 times. He achieves 5th place FIFA Footballer of the year in 2017.
_______________________________________
Date Of Birth : 11 November 1983
Position : Left and Right-Back, Height : 170 cm
Major Club : Bayern Munich, Caps : 113 Games
World Cup Participation : 2006, 2010, 2014
Club Honours : 8 Times Bundesliga, 6 Times DFB-Pokal
2013 UEFA Champion League, 2 Times Runner-Up
2013 UEFA Champion League, 2 Times Runner-Up
International Honours : 2008 UEFA Euro Runner-Up
2014 FIFA World Cup Champion
2014 FIFA World Cup Champion
Individual Achievement : 2 Times UEFA Euro Best XI (2008, 2012)
3 Times FIFA World Cup All-Stars Team (2006, 2010, 2014)
3 Times FIFA World Cup All-Stars Team (2006, 2010, 2014)
IFFHS World Team of The Decade 2010s
2021 IFFHS All-Time Europe Dream Team
"Masgic
Dwarf" Phillip Lahm is the best defender in the World during the first
half 1950s and is one of the most successful defenders ever in international
football. He was grown up with Bayern youth team and settle down for his club
through his career. Lahm spent his prime period during the first half 2010s. He
was captain of both Bayern in the 2013 winning treble and 2014 FIFA World Cup
champion. The transition from 2013 to 2014 saw his change in left-back to
defensive midfielder position and was rated by kicker in world-class in both
role. Although Lahm is right-footed player, he is able to play on both sides in
the back-line effectively utilized from his tactical intelligence and
versatility. He often cuts from the flank to the inside area. In particular, he
is renowned for his pace, technique, stamina, and precise tackling abilities.
Lahm was incredibly chosen in World Cup and UEFA Euro all stars team 5
consecutive tournaments. He was named in FIFPro World XI and ESM team of the
year twice with 17 times ESM team of the month and get the highest place in Ballon'Dor at 6th in 2014. He is also
named in the 2015 UEFA Ultimate team of the year and The 2016 All-Time Euro XI.
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40. Virgil Van Dijk
Position : Center-Back, Height : 193 cm
Major Club : Celtic, Liverpool, Caps : 74 Games
World Cup Participation : 2022
Club Honours : 1 Time Premier League
2 Times Scottish League, 1 Time FA Cup
2019 UEFA Champion League, 2018 and 2022 Runner-Up
2019 FIFA Club World Cup
International Honours : None
Individual Achievement :
2019 Premier League Player of the Season
2019 UEFA Defender of the Season
2019 UEFA Nation League Best XI
2019 UEFA Men Player of The Year
2019 Premier League Player of the Season
2019 UEFA Defender of the Season
2019 UEFA Nation League Best XI
2019 UEFA Men Player of The Year
2019 Silver Ball Ballon'Dor
2019 Silver Ball FIFA Best Men Player of the Year
2019 Silver Ball FIFA Best Men Player of the Year
2 Times World Defender of The Year (2019, 2022)
IFFHS World Team of The Decade - 2010s
"Aquaman" Virgil Van Dijk is the best defender in the World during the late 2010s to early 2020s and is considered as one of the most all-round center-backs of all-time. He is supern in positional sense, physically strong, possesses aerial prowess and great pace and agility for his height, is also described as a smooth ball-playing defender, effective set-piece taker and ability to read the game and know how to judge his timing and wait for the right moment to challenge. Van Dijk played as a pivotal role in defense for Liverpool that reached 3 UEFA Champion League finals. He was named in 3 Times PFA team of the year, 3 Times UEFA team of the year, 4 times UEFA Champion League squad of the season, 18 Times ESM team of the month and 3 Times team of the year and 2 Times FIFPRO World XI. he was nominated in Ballon'Dor twice in 2019 and 2022 and finished the highest place for defender position.
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39. Marcel Desailly
Date Of Birth : 7 September 1968
Nation : France, Caps : 116 Games
Height : 188 cm, Position : Stopper
Major Club : AC Milan, Chelsea
World Cup Participation : 1998, 2002 (10 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Italian Series A, 1 Time FA Cup
2 Times European Cup (1993, 1994)
1995 UEFA Champion League Runner-Up
International Honours : 1998 FIFA World Cup Champion
2000 European Championship Winners
2 Times FIFA Confederation Cup Winners (2001, 2003)
Individual Achievement : 1998 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
2 times UEFA Euro Team of Tournament (1996, 2000)
Premier League Team of The Decade
Marcel Desailly is the greatest defender ever to born in the Africa continent and is one of the most international team decorated defenders of all-time, was a stalwart center-back and note for his superb strength and stamina, domination in the air, radiation confidence and leadership. Desailly was one of a few players in history to win 2 consecutive European Cup with different team. He had firstly avhived it with Olympique Marseile before going on his career in AC Milan and won the second one. There, He was a World-Class deep-lying defensive midfielder in front of back-line. Then, He was transferred to English Premier League with Chelsea. He basically played as a man’s marker for France national team and being one of the best stoppers in the World, was voted as 4th place best player of the 1998 FIFA World Cup tournament. Desailly was voted in top eleven Ballon D’or 4 times during 1994 to 1996 and 1998, finished best place in 1996 at 8th.
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38. Alan Hansen
37. Hans Peter Briegel
Date Of Birth : 11 October 1955
34. Karlheinz Forster
_______________________________________
38. Alan Hansen
Date Of Birth : 13 June 1955
Nation : Scotland,
Height : 188 cm, Position : Sweeper
Major Club : Liverpool
World Cup Participation : 1982 (3 Games)
Club Honours : 8 Times England Top Division
1 Time Scottish First Division
2 Times FA Cup, 3 Times League Cup
3 Times European Cup (1978, 1981, 1984)
1985 European Cup Runner-Up
International Honours : None
Individual Achievement : None
Alan Hansen was known as the greatest defender ever to come from the Scotland and is one of the greatest defenders in history of English football league and European Cup. A stellar defensive organizer and technician, He was one of the most important player of “The Red Machine” Liverpool which is the most successful team in Europe for years between lately 1970s to early 1980s. Hansen played all 4 European Cup final matches and win 3 times. On the other hand, He unfortunately was not a long-period starter for Scotland national team after World Cup 1982 was ended just because of a compatible buddy of center-back from Aberdeen like Willie Miller and Alex Mcleish. He played as sweeper, had never been frighten on his face, coolness like stagnant and reliable in every situations. Hansen was never nominated in Ballon'Dor.
_______________________________________37. Hans Peter Briegel
Nation : Germany,
Position : Left, Right-Wing-Back and Center-Back
Height : 188 cm, Major Club : Kaiserslautern
World Cup Participation : 1982, 1986 (13 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times East German Cup
International Honours : 1980 European Championship Winner
2 Times FIFA World Cup Runner-Up (1982, 1986)
Individual Achievement : 1985 German Footballer of The Year
1985 European Defender of The Year
"The Steamroller from Palatinate" Hans Peter Briegel was famous as a versatile and very completed German defender. He could highly perform as stopper and wing-back in both side with supporting by his superb physical strength and stamina, high level of mentality and aggression combined with top-class teamwork ability and technical options. Briegel possessed great crossing ability and even good in aerial game. According to kicker rating and believing of his performance in Italian Series A with Hellas Verona where he was one of indispensable players to lead winning the only top tier league title in its history. He won 2 World-Class seasons in club level (half of season as stopper 1.5 season of full-back) and 7 seasons of international class in both club and NT career. According to German Footballer of the year voting, He was German defender of the year twice time and was the most weekly appearances of a Bundesliga team of the season once in 1982 when Kicker did not rate him as world-class in the whole season. He was nominated in Ballon'Dor twice, finished 14th and 8th in 1984 and 1985 respectively.
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36. Claudio Gentile
_______________________________________
36. Claudio Gentile
Date Of Birth : 27 September 1953
Nation : Italy,
Position : Left/Right-Back
Height : 178 cm, Major Club : Juventus
World Cup Participation : 1978, 1982 (13 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Italian Series A
2 Times Copa Italia, 1977 UEFA Cup
1983 European Cup Runner-Up
1984 European Cup Winners Cup
International Honours : 1982 FIFA World Cup Champion
Individual Achievement : 1982 FIFA World Cup Best Defender
1980 European Championship Team Of Tournament
Gentile born in Libya, is one of the toughest and roughest defenders in the history of the game, considered by many as one of football 's greatest ever man markers. Gentile generally played at Centre Back but switched to Left or Right Back when needing to mark certain wide-playing attackers. One of Gentile's most favored tactics was to stand behind the striker who had the ball while kicking between his opponent's legs to play the ball, leaving the opposing player's legs beaten and bruised. Gentile was also a master of the hard tackle to get the ball, not the player, and was rewarded for his skill by a career that lacked even a single sending off. Gentile is considered as the best defender in Series A once in 1977. In World Cup 1982, He notably man-marked Diego Maradona out of the game, also performed a violent tackle from behind on Zico and later ripped the Brazilian's shirt in half during a tussle. Gentile was never nominated in Ballon'Dor. He was chosen by 10 medias from total 14 in 1982 FIFA World Cup best XI.
_______________________________________35. Billy Wright
Date Of Birth : 6 February 1924
Billy Wright is one of the great legends in history of British football, is the best defender in the Europe during the 1950s. He signed as professional at 17 years old and then became the first football player in the world to earn 100 caps. Wright was a central defender and a captain of England national team through decade of 1950s. He was the most popular player for English’s football fan during his era with his profession and reliability of football playing. Wright was a master of timing both in terms of beating taller players to headers and winning the ball in strong tackles. He also had a remarkable reading of the game, able to break up attackers with almost telepathic interception and launch quick break upfield. He made 541 appearances to Wolvehampton and regarded as club’s greatest player ever, Specialty, A statue of him was erected beside Wolves' Molineux Stadium in memory of him in 1996, three years after the completion of a stand at the stadium named in honour of him. He is rated by many as the second greatest defender of England only to Bobby Moore. Wright also finished 9th and 6th place Ballon'Dor in 1956 and 1958 respectively. He was named by Mundo Esportivo in 1954 FIFA World Cup All-Stars team.
Nation : England,
Height : 180 cm, Position : Center-Back
Major Club : Wolvehampton Wanderers
World Cup Participation : 1950, 1954, 1958 (10 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times English Top Division, 1 Time FA Cup
International Honours : None
Individual Achievement : 1952 FWA Footballer Of The Year
3 Times European Defender of The Year (1956, 1957, 1958)
3 Times European Defender of The Year (1956, 1957, 1958)
1957 Silver Ball European Footballer Of The Year
1959 Order of The British Empire
English Football Hall Of Fame
Billy Wright is one of the great legends in history of British football, is the best defender in the Europe during the 1950s. He signed as professional at 17 years old and then became the first football player in the world to earn 100 caps. Wright was a central defender and a captain of England national team through decade of 1950s. He was the most popular player for English’s football fan during his era with his profession and reliability of football playing. Wright was a master of timing both in terms of beating taller players to headers and winning the ball in strong tackles. He also had a remarkable reading of the game, able to break up attackers with almost telepathic interception and launch quick break upfield. He made 541 appearances to Wolvehampton and regarded as club’s greatest player ever, Specialty, A statue of him was erected beside Wolves' Molineux Stadium in memory of him in 1996, three years after the completion of a stand at the stadium named in honour of him. He is rated by many as the second greatest defender of England only to Bobby Moore. Wright also finished 9th and 6th place Ballon'Dor in 1956 and 1958 respectively. He was named by Mundo Esportivo in 1954 FIFA World Cup All-Stars team.
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34. Karlheinz Forster
Date Of Birth : 25 July 1958
Nation : West Germany,
Height : 178 cm, Position : Stopper
Major Club : VFB Stuttgart, Olympique Marseile
World Cup Participation : 1982, 1986 (14 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time Bundesliga Champion
2 Times French Champions, 1 Time French Cup
International Honours : 2 Times FIFA World Cup Runner-Up(1982,1986)
1980 European Championship Winners
Individual Achievement : 1982 German Footballer Of The Year
2 Times European Championship Best XI (1980, 1984)
VFB Stuttgart Greatest Player Ever
VFB Stuttgart Greatest Player Ever
Karlheinz Forster is the greatest man’s marker in history of the Bundesliga games. Kicker ranking rated him 1.5 world-class seasons and 7.5 International-class seasons. However, the rating is underrated if compare to SCD rating which shows he could be also considered in world-class in 1984. Forster was the most important player in defensive line of both VFB Stuttgart and Germany during the 1st half 1980s. After Germany had to be disappointed with 2 consecutive losing in World Cup final round, Forster feel his mission for West Germany should be enough and decide to retire from international competition in spite of his 28 year olds of age only and immediately moved to play in France. This regrettably led him not participate in World Cup 1990 which West Germany was able to win a title and he was still in good performance with Olympic Marseille. Forster never played in final match in any European Competition and he reached once semi-final in each of three major European club competitions According to German Footballer of the year voting, He finish finish 3rd place in 1986, was German defender of the year four times and is named in Bundesliga team of the season twice. Forster was nominated in Ballon'Dor once in 1986.
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33. Fernando Hierro
Date Of Birth : 25 March 1968
Nation : Spain,
Height : 188 cm, Position : Sweeper
Major Club : Real Madrid
World Cup Participation : 1994,1998,2002 (12 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Spanish La liga, 1 Time Spanish Cup
3 Times UEFA Champion League (1998, 2000, 2002)
2 Times Intercontinental Cup (1998, 2002)
International Honours : 1982 FIFA World Cup Champion
Individual Achievement : 1997 El Pas Spanish Footballer Of The Year
1998 UEFA Champion League Best Defender
Fernando Hierro was famous as a leader in Real Madrid’s defensive line in the era of “Galaticos Version II” and regarded as the greatest Spanish defender in the modern era. He was equally at ease as a central defender or defensive midfielder, he had the ability, at his peak, to combine solid defensive play with a near-unlimited passing range and surprising goalscoring talent, dominated air battles in front of his goal, which made him one of the world's most sought-after players. He played with an intensity that served to motivate him and deflect spotlight off the skill player. As a defender, Hierro had a remarkable scoring record. He led Spain in total goals with 29 before being overtaken by Raul Gonzalez, and in club play was fourth in the world for defensive player goals with 105 in 497 first division games. He was nominated in Ballon'Dor three times during the 2nd half 1990s and finished in top twenties twice.
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32. Jose Santamaria
Date Of Birth : 31 July 1929
Nation : Uruguay
Height : 180 cm, Position : Stopper
Major Club : Real Madrid
Caps : 20 Games For Uruguay and 16 Games For Spain
World Cup Participation : 1954, 1962 (7 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Uruguay Champions
5 Times Spanish La Liga
4 Times European Cup (1958, 1959, 1960, 1966)
2 Times European Cup Runner-Up (1962, 1964)
1960 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1956 Copa America Winner
Individual Achievement : 1954 FIFA World Cup All Stars Team
1958 Spanish La Liga Footballer of the Year
1961 European Defender of The Year
1958 Spanish La Liga Footballer of the Year
1961 European Defender of The Year
Jose Santamaria is the greatest South American man-marker of all-time, is the best defender in history of Real Madrid club and was the best defender in the World during the 1950s, is one of the most international club decorated defenders of all-time, was an indispensable defender of Real Madrid “The First Decade of Galaticos” He was known for his toughness, uncompromising, top-class stamina and strength. Real Madrid brought him due to his world cup’s performance. Santamaria first played for Uruguay but later moved to play for Spain after playing for Real Madrid just one year. Nonetheless, he was dropped for Spain’s first team of the 1962 FIFA World Cup because of his failing down performance, had never been called for Spain any longer.
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31. Marcos Cafu
Date Of Birth : 7 June 1970, Height : 176 cm
Nation : Brazil, Caps : 142 Games
Position : Right-Wing-Back, Major Club : AS Roma, AC Milan
World Cup Participation : 1994, 1998, 2002, 2006 (21 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time Brazil National Champions
2 Time Italian Series A, 1 Time Copa CONMEBOL
2 Times Copa Libertadores Cup (1992,1993)
2 Times Intercontinental Cup (1992, 1993),2007 FIFA Club World Cup
2007 UEFA Champion League, 2005 Runner-Up
International Honours : 2 Times FIFA World Cup Winners (1994,2002)
1998 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
2 Times Copa America Winners (1997, 1999)
1997 FIFA Confederation Cup
Individual Achievement : 2008 Officer Of The Order Of Rio Branco
1994 South American Footballer Of The Year, 1993 Bronze Ball 2021 IFFHS All-Time World Dream Team
Marcos Cafu is best known as the only player in history of World Cup to play in 3 final matches which is the record. He became a superstar since early career with Sao Paulo where he won South American Footballer of The Year. He started playing the first one in 1994 which he was fortunately replaced of Jorginho because of his injury in the 22nd minute. Afterwards, Cafu participated the second in 1998 which Brazil was just runner-up. Thirdly, He was selected as captain in World Cup 2002 leading Brazil to win that tournament. Cafu is a right wing-back with outstanding pace, technique and dynamic defensive and offensive force. He was similar to many legendary Brazilian wing-back not able to perform world-class defensive quality but his intelligent always help him to prevent opponents well. Cafu was nominated in Ballon'Dor once in 2002 and being voted in top twenties. He was also selected by El Pais as the best right-back in South Americas four times between 1992 and 1995.
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30. Fabio Cannavaro
Date Of Birth : 13 September 1973
Nation : Italy, Caps : 136 Games
Height : 176 cm, Position : Stopper, Major Club : Parma
World Cup Participation : 1998, 2002, 2006 (15 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Spanish La Liga
2 Times Copa Italia, 1 Time UEFA Cup
International Honours : 2006 FIFA World Cup Winners
2000 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement : Parma Greatest Player Ever
2000 UEFA Euro Team of The Tournament
2 Times Series A Defender of the Year (2005, 2006)
2000 UEFA Euro Team of The Tournament
2 Times Series A Defender of the Year (2005, 2006)
2006 AIC Oscar De Calcio Footballer Of The Year
2006 Italian Series A Footballer Of The Year
2006 FIFA World Cup Silver Ball, Best Defender
2006 Ballon'Dor, FIFA/World Soccer Player of The Year
Fabio Cannavaro is best known as the only defender in history to win FIFA world player of the year award as well as the oldest recipient. Cannavaro actually could play as both sweeper and stopper, noted for his outstanding in his fierce defending, aggressive and interception but has a limitation in setting the game from the back-line. Cannavaro was always overshadowed by Nesta,being voted 2nd on Italian series A defender of the year 4 times. His tall is just lower-average as defender and it has been his disadvantage to manage with aerial ball especially his mistaking to lose winning goal in EURO 2000. 2006 was Cannavaro’s best year which he won 10 individual awards. Afterwards, He had a hard time to sustain his performance with Real Madrid because of loosely defensive system of the team. Cannavaro is named in ESM team of the month 9 times and team of the year once time. He was never voted in Ballon'Dor in other year than 2006.
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29. Giuseppe Bergomi
Date Of Birth : 22 December 1963
Nation : Italy,
Position : Stopper, Semi-Right Back
Height : 180 cm, Major Club : Inter Milan
World Cup Participation : 1982, 1986, 1990, 1998 (20 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time Italian Series A, 1 Time Italian Cup
3 Times UEFA Cup (1991, 1994, 1997)
International Honours : 1982 FIFA World Cup Winner
1990 FIFA World Cup Third Place
Individual Achievement : 1988 UEFA Euro Team of Tournament
“Lo Zio” Giuseppe Bergomi is regarded by many as the greatest marker of all-time, was a roughness defender but it was full of talent and qualities. He was best remembered as one of the best youngest player ever to play for World Cup final at only 19 year olds of ages and surprisingly marked Rummenigge lost his great performance. Bergomi was a consistency World-Class defender during the 2nd half 1980s. In 1990 World Cup, he was selected as captain for Italy. After miss the 1994 FIFA World Cup squad, he was selected to play in 1998 FIFA world cup in France in his age of 35 year olds. However, media rating shows he was never the best Series A defender in any year. Bergomi tied with Facchetti to be retired number for Inter Milan. He mainly played as sweeper in his career and hold record most appearance for Inter Milan with 757 matches of play. He also finished one runner-up and twice semi-finalist in UEFA Cup with Inter Milan. Bergomi was never nominated in Ballon'Dor. He was chosen by 3 medias from total 12 in 1990 FIFA World Cup best XI.
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28. Javier Zanetti
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28. Javier Zanetti
Date Of Birth : 10 August 1978
Nation : Argentina,
Height : 178 cm, Position : Right-Back
Major Club : Inter Milan
World Cup Participation : 1998, 2002 (8 Games)
Club Honors : 5 Times Italian Series A, 3 Times Copa Italia
1998 UEFA Cup, 2010 UEFA Champion League
International Honours : 2 Times Copa America Runner-Up (2004, 2007)
1995 Pan American Games Winners
1996 Olympic Games Silver Medal
Individual Achievement : None
“The Tractor” Javier Zanetti is one of the greatest-oldest players of all-time, is an all-round full-back with his strength, resilience, stamina, acceleration, work rate and his ability to run past opposing defenders when joining the attack from his right back position. He is also referred to by team supporters and media as "The Captain" as he has captained the club for over decade. He has appeared in more than 775 official matches for the club and over 550 Series A matches which is the highest all-time total among non-Italian born players. He sometimes switched to play as right-side midfielder or central defensive midfielder. Zanetti is regarded as Inter Milan's greatest player in the 2000s. He is the best defender in Series A in 1996 according to media rating. Unfortunately, he was excluded in squad of the 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cup despite being the best Argentine player in his position undoubtedly. He holds the all-time record most appearances first level career games in defender posiiton with more than 1060 games, also holds the record most appearances for Argentina national team with 145 matches of play and the most appearances in Copa America with 22. Zanetti was never nominated in Ballon'Dor and retired his career at 41 years old. He was named in ESM team of the month only 4 times.
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Date Of Birth : 19 November 1912
Nation : Brazil,
Height : 186 cm, Position : Center-Back
Major Club : Flamengo, Corinthians
World Cup Participation : 1938 (4 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time Uruguay Champion
1 Time Argentina Champion
International Honours : 1938 FIFA World Cup Third Place
Individual Achievement : 1938 FIFA World Cup Best Defender
Brazil Football Museum Hall Of Fame
“The Divine Master” Domingos Da Guia is considered as the greatest South American defender during the 2nd half 1930s and the 1st half 1940s as well as the greatest Brazilian central defender of all-time. He was noted for his reliable in defensive duty and going forward to support attacking game by his technical abilities particularly dribbling, skillful on the abll and never resouricng to violence. He was never the quickest of players, but defended with a great sense of calm which filled his team-mates with confidence. He was also one of the first defenders to dribble the ball away from danger rather than just making big clearances. He quickly rose to fame as one of Bangu's key player. Despite the fact Bangu had a history of fielding black player, Domingos might have witnessed racism in football. Afterwards, Domingos Da Guia settled down as an idol of Flamengo and Corinthians club for a decade until he had became club’s legend.
_______________________________________26. Jurgen Kohler
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Date Of Birth : 6 October 1965
Nation : Germany,
Position : Stopper, Major Club : Juventus, Borussia Dortmund
Position : Stopper, Major Club : Juventus, Borussia Dortmund
World Cup Participation : 1990, 1994, 1998 (13 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times Bundesliga Champions
1 Time Italian Series A, 1 Time Copa Italia
1993 UEFA Cup, 1997 UEFA Champion League
1997 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1990 FIFA World Cup Winners
1996 European Championship Winners, 1992 Runner-Up
Individual Achievement : 1997 German Footballer Of The Year
1992 European Championship Best XI
Jurgen Kohler is
widely considered as the finest European stoppers or man’s markers ever. He was
one of the most completed stopper with his strong, positional play and
precision tacking , Although an aerial ability and speed were skills he was
just in average only but Kohler always manage it with his tactical ability,
known as a pure defender not available in technical option. Kohler was totally
rated by kicker in 2.5 world-class seasons and 8.5 international-class seasons,
noted for his world-class in a half season for 5 years.In the 1991 - 1992
season, Italian Media's rating to him is overlapped to world-class even kicker
rates in international-class only. He was strong as if being a steel wall could
mark many superstars out of their games. Kohler used to give an interview that
there was no strikers who could make him trouble through his career. According
to German Footballer of the year voting, He was German defender of the year in
only twice times and was named in Bundesliga team of the season six times and was
the most weekly appearances of a Bundesliga team of the season once in 1988.
Kohler was nominated in Ballon'Dor once in 1997 and finished 11th place. He
was chosen by 3 medias from total 12 in 1990 FIFA World Cup best XI.
25. Djalma Santos
Date Of Birth : 27 February 1929Nation : Brazil, Caps : 98 Games,
Position : Right-Back, Major Club : Portugesa, Palmeiras
World Cup Participation : 1954, 1958, 1962, 1966 (11 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Brazilian National Champions
3 Times Brazilian State Championship
3 Times Torneio Rio-Sao Paulo
Copa Libertadores Cup Runner-Up (1961, 1968)
International Honours : 2 Times FIFA World Cup Winners(1958,1962)
3 Times Copa America Runner-Up (1953, 1957, 1959)
Individual Achievement : 1994 FIFA World Cup All-Time Team
3 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star (1954, 1958, 1962 Best Defender)
3 Times Copa America Team of The Tournament (1953, 1957, 1959)
1954 World Cup Best Defender, Brazil Football Museum Hall Of Fame
Djalma Santos is the greatest right-back in the Word during the first half 1960s. He is one of the two players in history of world cup to be unofficially voted in All-Star team 3 times which is the record together with Beckenbauer. He was selected in world team of century more sources than any right-back with 4 from total 9 sources. A rock-solid right back for the great Brazilian Cup teams of 1958 and 1962, Djalma was the first Brazilian player to make 100 caps. A physical specimen While primarily known for his defensive skills, he found time to raid down the right flank and was steadfast in support of the attacking game. He was a tough, rugged and uncompromising right back, Known for his soccer sense and intelligence on the pitch, he was often given the role of marking the opponent's fastest wing player, Djalma was also a deadball specialist. His consistency and longevity with around 1060 total games career was done at his retirement in NT career at 39 years old as the oldest player to appear in Brazil national team and holds the record longest span career of Brazil with more than 16 year. He retired from his club career at 40 years old. For media rating of FIFA World Cup best XI, he was chosen by Mundo Esportivo in 1954, being named by 1 media from total 2 in 1958 and wasn't chosen in 1962 by France Football.
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24. Jose Nasazzi
Date Of Birth : 24 May 1901
Nation : Uruguay,
Height : 182 cm, Position : Center-Back
Major Club : Bella Vista, Nacional
World Cup Participation : 1970 (4 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Uruguay Champions
International Honours : 1930 FIFA World Cup Winner
3 Times Copa America (1923, 1924, 1926)
2 Times Olympic Games Gold Medal (1924, 1928)
Individual Achievement : 1930 FIFA World Cup Best Player
2 Times Copa America Best Player (1923,1935)
2 Times Copa America Best Player (1923,1935)
“The Great Marshal” Jose Nasazzi is widely considered as the greatest defender in the pre-war era, is the most national team decorated footballer of all-time, is regarded by many as one of the greatest Uruguayan legends of all-time and is the only defender in history of World Cup to win Golden Ball award, and is the only defender ever won Copa America MVP more than once time. He was captain for Uruguay in their glory years which was the most successful team in the world especially winning the first World Cup in 1930 and basically noted for his leadership and reliability. Nasazzi played as right-side central defender in 2-3-5 system. Regrettably, Uruguay refused to defend their title in World Cup 1934 despite they are still rated as one of the best teams in the World.
_______________________________________23. Andreas Brehme
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Date Of Birth : 9 November 1960, Height : 175 cm
Nation : West Germany, Caps : 86 Games (8 Goals)
Position : Left-Wing-Back
Major Club : Kaiserslautern, Inter Milan
World Cup Participation : 1986,1990,1994 (16 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time Bundesliga, 1 Time DFB-Pokal
1 Time Italian Series A, 1 Time UEFA Cup
International Honours : 1990 FIFA World Cup Winners
1992 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement : 1990
1989 Guerin Italian Series A Footballer Of The Year
1990 Bronze Ball European Footballer Of The Year
1990 FIFA World Cup Best Defender
2 Times UEFA Euro Best XI (1984, 1992)
Andreas Brehme is
considered to be one of the greatest free-kick takers and crossers of all time
as one of a few players in the world who could play with both feet equally
well, making him valuable as an outfield player. He was best remembered as a
winning-scorer with taking penalty in World Cup 1990 final round. Brehme was
great in stamina, positional play, precision crossing and teamwork ability. In
Bundesliga Game, He was rated in international-class 5 seasons as left
wing-back plus a season as central defensive midfielder. His individual
performance in Italian Series A coud be rated in 2 World-Class seasons. Brehme
totally scored 65 goals in his whole professional career. According to German
Footballer of the year voting, He finish 2nd place in 1990 and was German
defender of the year only once time. He was also nominated in 1989 Ballon'Dor,
finished 14th.
22. Carlos Alberto
Date Of Birth : 17 July 1944
Nation : Brazil,
Height : 180 cm, Position : Right-Wing-Back
Major Club : Fluminese
World Cup Participation : 1970 (6 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times Brazilian National Champions
International Honours : 1970 FIFA World Cup Winners
1974 FIFA World Cup Third Place
Individual Achievement : 1970 FIFA World Cup Best Defender
1998 FIFA World Team Of Century
1998 FIFA World Team Of Century
Carlos Alberto Torres is widely regarded as the finest right wing-back of all-time during his peak. He was all-round full-back with his ball control, dribbling, playmaking ability, brilliant positioning, great tackling and reading of the game. Carlos Alberto could play as sweeper as well. He selected as captain, was best remembered in world cup 1970 with his scorer in final match which has been regarded as one of the best score in world cup history because of a very beautiful co-ordination between several players prior to his decisive finishing. However, His big getting injury impacted his career not to be as great as he should have been and disappeared a considerable amount of his NT career. Carlos Alberto was not among the best in his defensive skills but reputable for his first-class offensive skill. He was never voted in top ten South American Footballer of The Year which began in 1971 and never participated in Copa Libertadores Cup and Copa America.
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21. Karl-Heinz Schnellinger
Date Of Birth : 31 March 1939
Nation : Germany, Caps : 47 Games
Position : Left-Full-Back/ Center-Back
Height : 180 cm, Major Club : FC Koln, AC Milan
World Cup Participation : 1958, 1962, 1966, 1970 (16 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time Bundesliga
1 Time Italian Series A, 4 Times Copa Italia
2 Times European Cup Winners’ Cup
1969 European Cup, 1969 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1966 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
1970 FIFA World Cup Third Place
Individual Achievement : 1962 German Footballer of The Year
1962 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
1962 Bronze Ball European Footballer of The Year
3 Times European Defender of The Year (1962, 1963, 1964)
1962 Bronze Ball European Footballer of The Year
3 Times European Defender of The Year (1962, 1963, 1964)
Karl-Heinz Schnellinger was the best defender in the World in the first half 1960s. He was not only rated in 3.5 world-class seasons in Bundesliga and all World Cup tournaments he played from kicker ranking but also a consistency world-class defender in Italian series A in several years. Schnellinger mainly played as left-back in 4-4-2 system but he sometimes was used as sweeper for Germany which he was still rated in world-class in world cup 1970. He was noted for his superlatively positional play, tackling ability, physical power pace and his winning mentality. Moreover, Schnellinger also did offensively duty well especially his long passing. His best year was 1962 which was the only year he won 2 major individual awards. According to German Footballer of the year voting, He was German defender of the year only twice times. Schnellinger was voted in 5th, 11th and 12th Ballon'Dor between 1963 and 1965, respectively.
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Date Of Birth : 8 October 1957
Nation : Italy,
Height : 178 cm, Position : Left-Back
Major Club : Juventus
World Cup Participation : 1978,1982,1986 (18 Games)
Club Honours : 6 Times Italian Series A
2 Times Copa Italia, 1977 UEFA Cup
1983 European Cup Runner-Up
1984 European Cup Winners Cup
1985 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1982 FIFA World Cup Champion
Individual Achievement : None
“The Beautiful Antonio” Antonio Cabrini is considered as the greatest full-back of the world during the first half 1980s. Because of his popularity as a fascinating and good-looking football player, On the field, his technical and physical qualities made of him the most popular defender of the history of Italian football. Cabrini was almost a completed side-back, showing his world-class defensive and offensive quality but his right-foot was the only disadvantage that it was not rather useful in some occasions. But still, His left-foot was good enough to create many goals for his team especially scored 9 goals for Italy is the all-time record for Italian defender. He was one of the main players of Juventus in their glory era which was the most successful team in Italy. According to media rating, he is the best defender of Series A twice times in 1984 and 1986. He was voted from www.channel4.com as a starter in Juventus all-time XI. Cabrini was voted in 13th and 14th Ballon'Dor in 1978 and 1983, respectively. He was chosen by 4 medias from total 14 in 1982 FIFA World Cup best XI.
_______________________________________19. Ronald Koeman
Nation : Netherlands,
Height : 183 cm, Position : Sweeper
Major Club : Barcelona
World Cup Participation : 1990, 1994 (9 Games)
Club Honours : 4 Times Spanish La Liga, 1 Time Spanish Cup
4 Times Dutch Champions, 3 Times Dutch Cup
2 Times European Cup (1988, 1992)
International Honours : 1988 European Championship Winners
Individual Achievement :
2 Times Dutch Footballer Of The Year (1987, 1988)
2 Times European Defender of The Year (1988, 1992)
2 Times European Defender of The Year (1988, 1992)
Ronald Koeman was well-known as the greatest defender-scorer in history of the game with 225 goals in 647 matches which is an all-time world record. Koeman scored not less than 10 goals in a season almost every years during his career. Most were done by his free-kick specialist, powerful and rocket long shooting and penalty taking. He was also a great sweeper with intelligent play ensured an organized defense and provided excellent distribution from the back, always generated precision passing. His leadership ability enabled him to excel as captain of Holland in 1994 World Cup final. He played for all three big of Holland like Ajax, PSV and Feyenood. Koeman was known for his low speed which made him a hard time to catch high-speed attackers. He was voted in 5th and 8th Ballon'Dor in 1988 and 1992.
_______________________________________18. Leovegildo Junior
Date Of Birth : 25 June 1954
17. Hector Chumpitaz
16. Matthias Sammer
13. Lilian Thuram
Date Of Birth : 1 January 1972
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12. Jose Leandro Andrade
Date Of Birth : 2 November 1901
Nation : Brazil,
Height : 174 cm, Position : Left-Wing-Back
Major Club : Flamengo
World Cup Participation : 1982, 1986 (10 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Brazil State Champion
4 Times Brazil National Championship, 1 Time Brazil Cup
1981 Copa Libertadores Cup, 1981 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1983 Copa America Runner-Up
Individual Achivement : 1982 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
1981 Bronze Ball South American Footballer Of The Year
1992 Brazilian League Footballer of The Year
2 Times South American Defender of The Year (1981,1982)
1981 Bronze Ball South American Footballer Of The Year
1992 Brazilian League Footballer of The Year
2 Times South American Defender of The Year (1981,1982)
Leovegildo Junior is a notable technical gift Brazilian defender and midfielder in the 1980s and is also one of the most sustainable Brazilian players ever. A style of balance player between defense and offence, Junior was famous for his incredible dribbling ability and accurate short-passing. He is one of the indispensable players in the golden age of Flamengo club during the first half 1980s that was the period he regularly played as left-back and was named three times Brazilian League Best XI. Then, he settle down playing in Italian Series A with new roles as defensive midfielder and won 1985 unofficial Italian Series A player of the year as a central midfielder role and media rating to him in the 1984 - 1985 season is one of the highest average points ever. He then returned to Brazil and still played as DM and won Brazilian League Best XI twice include once player of the year, retried at around 40 years old. In total, he played more than 1100 matches includes unofficial games. Junior also finished 5th and 9th South American Footballer of The Year in 1982 and 1983 as the best defender, respectively. He was chosen by 10 medias from total 14 in 1982 FIFA World Cup best XI
_______________________________________17. Hector Chumpitaz
Date Of Birth : 12 April 1943
Nation : Peru,
Height : 168 cm, Position : Sweeper
Major Club : Universitario
World Cup Participation : 1970, 1978 (10 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Peruvian League
1972 Copa Libertadores Cup Runner-Up
International Honours : 1975 Copa America Winner
Individual Achievement : All-Time Copa America All-Star Team
2 Times South American Defender of the Year (1969, 1971)
CONMEBOL All-Star Team In The Last 50 Years
“The America’s Captain” Hector Chumpitaz is one of Peru’s most recognized footballer player, was known for his great technique, his leadership, his organization ability on the field, A strong reader of the game with excellent ball skills and distribution but the weak point is his aerial ability. He marshaled a capable defense to support Peru’s attack led by Teofilo Cubillas. Chumpitaz was selected captain of the American continent's team in 1973. He was an impressive defender-scoring with 74 goals in 530 career matches. Chumpitaz is considered as the best South American defender in the early 1970s. He was named to the list of best World Cup players of all time by Terra.com in 2006. He was elected the 35th best South American footballer of the 20th century in a poll by the IFFHS in 2000.
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16. Matthias Sammer
Date Of Birth : 5 September 1967
Nation : Germany, Position : Advanced Sweeper
Height : 180 cm, Major Club : Borussia Dortmund
Caps : 51 Games (Germany), 23 Games (East Germany)
World Cup Participation : 1994 (4 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times Bundesliga Champions
2 Times East Germany Champions
1997 UEFA Champion League, 1997 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1996 European Championship Winner
1992 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement : Dortmund's Greatest Player Ever
2 Times German Footballer of The Year (1995,1996)
1996 UEFA Euro Player Of Tournament
1996 European Footballer Of The Year
“The Prince Of East Germany” Matthias Sammer is one of three defenders in history to win European footballer of the year although he won the awards nonunanimously, only one vote more than Ronaldo . He early start as central midfielder. He was ranked in international-class 3.5 seasons in Bundesliga until the end of Germany in world cup 1994, moving down to play as attacking libero instead of Lothar Matthaeus, showing his fantastic vision when support attacking game. As libero, He reached world-class 2 seasons leading both Dortmund and Germany winning the biggest title of Europe. He was even compared as the same footage with Franz Beckenbauer. Unfortunately, Sammer was gotten a big injury leading to retirement eventually. All in all, His career as defensive player was performed in only 3 years. He was also voted 9th and 4th FIFA world player of the year in 1995 and 1996 respectively and also finished in top ten Ballon'Dor in 1995 and 1997. According to German Footballer of the year voting, He was German defender of the year twice times and was named Bundesliga team of the season four times.
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15. Alessandro Nesta
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15. Alessandro Nesta
Date Of Birth : 19 March 1976
Nation : Italy,
Height : 187 cm, Position : Sweeper
Major Club : Lazio, AC Milan
World Cup Participation : 1998, 2002, 2006 (9 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Italian Series A, 3 Times Copa Italia
1 Time UEFA Cup Winners’s Cup
2 Times UEFA Champion League (2003, 2007), 2005 Runner-Up
2007 FIFA Club World Cup
International Honours : 2006 FIFA World Cup Winners
Individual Achievement : 2000 UEFA Euro Best Defender
4 Times Series A Defender Of The Year (2000,2001,2002,2003)
2000 European Defender of The Year
Alessandro Nesta is considered as the greatest defender of the World during the 1st half 2000s. He was known for his unlucky with often getting injury particularly missing to play in World Cup 2006 final round. Plus, Nesta was out of action for the whole 2008-2009 season in Series A. The fact of matter, Nesta won 5th European footballer of the year in 2000, was the best defender in Italian Series A in early 2000s which he won defender of the year almost every seasons. He was known for his talent to manage with opponent attacker, Outstanding agility, Intelligent , Excellent anticipation. Nesta started well-known in career as sweeper with Lazio which he was a valuable asset of the club and played with them for decade before transferring to AC Milan. He is also the best defender in series A in 1999 by media rating. Nesta is named in ESM team of the month 15 times and team of the year once time. His best year was 2000 which he was voted in 5th both Ballon D’or and 8th FIFA world player of the year. Additionally, he finished 14th and 13th Ballon'Dor in 2001 and 2003, respectively.
14. Roberto Carlos
Date Of Birth : 10 April 1973, Height : 169 cm
Nation : Brazil, Caps : 125 Games (11 Goals)
Position : Left-Wing-Back, Major Club : Real Madrid
World Cup Participation : 1998, 2002, 2006 (13 Games)
Club Honours : 4 Times Spanish La Liga
2 Times Brazil National Champions
2 Times Brazil National Champions
3 Times UEFA Champion Leagues (1998, 2000, 2002)
2 Times Intercontinental Cup (1998, 2002)
International Honours : 2002 FIFA World Cup Winner,1998 Runner-Up
2 Times Copa America Winners (1997, 1999)
1997 FIFA Confederation Cup
Individual Achievement : 1998 EFE Trophy, 2002 FIFA Dream Team
2 Times UEFA Champion League Best Defender (2002, 2003)
1997 Silver Ball FIFA World Player Of The Year
2002 Silver Ball European Footballer Of The Year
2 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star Team (1998, 2002 Best Defender)
Brazil Football Museum Hall Of Fame
Roberto Carlos is one of the most team decorated footballers of all-time and was the greatest South American defender between the late 90s to early 2000s, was one of the best football entertainers and one of the most popularity iconic defenders with his trademarks like powerful and banana free-kick, excellent technique, recuperation, high work-rate and speed, All of those was formed such an awesome style of play led him as a superstar in spite of being defender. On the other hand, Roberto Carlos has never been a World-Class in defensive performance, often lost his position because of his routine running forward to wing-line. He has already scored 92 goals in all official competitions in club level. R.Carlos is named in ESM team of the month 34 times and team of the year 7 time as the record for defender. He is named in La Liga Team of the season seven times. He was also voted in top five FIFA world player of the year in 2002 and 2003 and Ballon D’or in 1997. In 2002 Ballon D'or, he got significant more 1st place votes than the first place but finally lost in final points.
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Nation : France, Caps : 142 Games
Position : Right-Full-Back/ Center-Back/ Semi-Right Back
Height : 185 cm, Major Club : Parma, Juventus
World Cup Participation : 1998, 2002, 2006 (16 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Italian Series A, 1 Time Copa Italia
1 Time Copa De France, 1 Time UEFA Cup
International Honours : 1998 FIFA World Cup Champion
2000 European Championship Winner
2006 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
Individual Achievement : 1997 French Footballer Of The Year
1997 Guerin Italian Series A Footballer Of The Year
1998 FIFA World Cup Bronze Ball, 1998 Legion de Honour
2 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star Team (1998 Best Defender, 2006)
1998 European Defender of The Year, 2000 UEFA Euro Best XI
Lilian Thuram is the greatest French defender of all-time, was a world-class all-round defender and one of the best defenders of the World between lately 1990s to early 2000s. Although he always mentioned his favorite position was Center-Back which he mostly played in his club career but Thuram reached in his prime as a right-back as media rating shows Thuram has the highest seasonal average rating among defenders since 1975. As a full-back, His performance is regarded as one of the greatest right-back the World has ever seen particularly for international level, was best remembered as a scorer two goals in match against Croatia in World Cup 1998 semi-final and was finally rated by kicker as the best player of the tournament . He possessed top-level stamina and strength, excellent positioning and above-average skillful. Thuram is named in ESM team of the month 15 times and team of the year twice times. He holds the record with other five players most EURO tournaments play with 4. Thuram finished 7th place Ballon'Dor in 1998.
12. Jose Leandro Andrade
Nation : Uruguay,
Height : 172 cm, Position : Right-Wing-Half
Major Club : Bella Vista, Nacional, Penarol
World Cup Participation : 1930 (4 Games)
Club Honours : 4 Times Uruguay Champions
International Honours : 1930 FIFA World Cup Champion
3 Times Copa America Winners (1923, 1924, 1926)
Individual Achievement : 1926 Copa America Best Player
1924 Olympics Games Best Player
1924 Olympics Games Best Player
1930 FIFA World Cup All-Stars Team
“The Black Winder” Jose Leandro Andrade was the greatest footballer in the World during the middle 1920s, was credited with being an intelligent and honest player who never celebrated his goals. He was a football artist who could simply do anything with the ball. He was a tall guy with elastic movements, who always preferred the direct, elegant game without physical contact and was always ahead with his thoughts by several moves. He preferred to play a direct style without the physicality of many of his team mates. Andrade won his first Olympic gold medal at the 1924 Olympic football tournament in Paris. He was recognized as being the first black international football player to play Olympic football, once perform phenomenon dribbling get through seven opponents. Despite not being at his peak he managed to be one of Uruguay's best players as they won the 1930 World Cup. At the end of the tournament he was selected in the All-Star team. In 1994 he was selected by France Football as number ten in their World Cup Top-100. He was also voted 29th World’s player of century by IFFHS’s poll.
_______________________________________
11. Nilton Santos
_______________________________________
11. Nilton Santos
Date Of Birth : 16 May 1925
Nation : Brazil,
Position : Left-Wing-Back, Semi-Left-Back
Height : 180 cm, Major Club : Botafogo
World Cup Participation : 1950, 1954, 1958, 1962 (15 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times Brazil State Championship
2 Times Torneo Rio Sao Paulo
International Honors : 2 Times FIFA World Cup Winners(1958,1962)
3 Times Copa America Runner-Up (1953, 1957, 1959)
Individual Achievement : 1958 FIFA World Cup Best Defender
2 Times Copa America Team of The Tournament (1953, 1957)
1998 FIFA World Team Of The Century
Brazil Football Museum Hall Of Fame
Nilton Santos is the greatest South American side-back of all-time, was selected in FIFA world team of century in 1998. Nilton Santos was very outstanding in his attacking duty with his pace, world-class dribbling, crossing and noted for his incomparable technique, his superb reading of the game, actical knowledge of the his great fair play on the pitch. He was one of the first defenseman to advance deep into opposition territory as a legitimate offensive weapon. Considering of his defensive skills, He was not among the greatest ever in this point but he was still a world-class one during his era. Nilton Santos was based on left-side defender but sometimes moving to inside defender. He was selected in Brazil team for world cup 1950 which they won runner-up but he was not a starter until his 25 year old as he just start his professional club career at 23 years old.. He is rated by Swedish newspaper to achieve the highest grade in every games in the 1958 World Cup. Afterwards, He gradually reached his prime and become an indispensable player of Brazil national team.
_______________________________________
10. Ruud Krol
Date Of Birth : 24 March
1949
Nation : Netherlands, Caps : 83 Games
Height : 184 cm, Position :
Left-Back/ Sweeper
Major Club : Ajax
Amsterdam, Napoli
World Cup Participation : 1974, 1978 (14 Games)
Club Honors : 6 Times Dutch Champions, 4 Times Dutch Cup
3 Times European Cup (1971,
1972, 1973)
1972 Intercontinental Cup
International Honors : 2 Times
FIFA World Cup Runner-Up(1974,1978)
Individual Achievement : 1976 UEFA Euro Team Of Tournament
2 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star
Team (1974, 1978)
1979 Bronze Ball European
Footballer Of The Year
1981 Guerin Italian Series A Footballer Of The Year
2 Times European Defender of The Year (1978, 1979)
1981 Guerin Italian Series A Footballer Of The Year
2 Times European Defender of The Year (1978, 1979)
Ruud Krol is the greatest defender ever in history of Dutch football. He was a remarkably all-round defender who could play anywhere in defensive line according to “Total Football” style of play creating by Rinus Michels. Krol played as left-back for both club and national level until his 29 year old of ages before switching to play as libero in World Cup 1978 which he was captain of team. Afterwards, He moved to play as libero for Napoli and became one of the best defender in Italian series A. An intelligent, skillfully elegant and physically commanding player, Krol played very important role helping Ajax Amsterdam won 3 consecutive European Cup trophies and reaching world cup final round 2 times. Krol obtained the highest point average seasonal rating by media among defenders in history of Italian Series A, was also rated by media as the best foreign player in the 1981 -1982 season of Italian Series A. Krol also finished 6th place Ballon'Dor in 1978 and finished in top twenties in other three years. He was chosen by 1 from 3 medias in 1974 World Cup best XI and 6 from 9 medias in 1978 World Cup best XI.
_______________________________________
9. Elias Figueroa
8. Berti Vogts
____________________________________
7. Gaetano Scirea
Date Of Birth : 25 May 1953
6. Daniel Passarella
_______________________________________
Honourable Mention
Argentina : 2
_______________________________________
9. Elias Figueroa
Date Of Birth : 25 October 1946
Nation : Chile,
Height : 183 cm, Position : Center-Back
Major Club : Penarol, Internacional
World Cup Participation : 1966, 1974, 1982 (9 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Brazil National Championship
2 Times Uruguay Champion, 2 Times Chile League
International Honours : 1979 Copa America Runner-Up
Individual Achievement : 2 Times Chilean League Best Player
3 Times Uruguayan League Best Player
1981 Chile Sportsman Of The Year
2 Times Brazilian League Footballer Of The Year (1972, 1976)
5 Time South American Defender of the Year (1973 - 1977)
3 Times Uruguayan League Best Player
1981 Chile Sportsman Of The Year
2 Times Brazilian League Footballer Of The Year (1972, 1976)
5 Time South American Defender of the Year (1973 - 1977)
3 Times South American Footballer Of The Year (1974, 1975, 1976)
1977 Bronze Ball South American Footballer of The Year
1999 IFFHS Chile Player of The Century
Elias Figueroa is the greatest South american defensive player of all-time, is one of the best domestic defenders ever and is the greatest Chilean player of all-time, holds the record as the most winners in South American footballer of the year, beat many world-class attackers in that era. He was also designated as the best player in Uruguayan league in 1967 and 1968 and the best player in Chile league in 1977 and 1978. He was noted for his elegant style of play, his calmness in the center of defense and his ability to cut out opposition attacks and immediately launch counter attacks from the back. He was also praised throughout his career for being a gentleman on and off the pitch. Figueroa is also renown for his technique skills like vision and ball controlling. He was considered four times as the best CB of the world and six times of the Americas by CEDEP. He was voted as 8th best South American footballer of century from IFFHS poll. FIFA named him as the best player in the World in 1976, was also voted in top 7 South American Footballer of The Year in 1972 and 1973.
_______________________________________8. Berti Vogts
Date Of Birth : 30 December 1946
Nation : West Germany,
Height : 168 cm, Position : Right-Full-Back
Major Club : Munchengladbach
World Cup Participation : 1970, 1974, 1978 (19 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Bundesliga, 1 Time DFB-Pokal
2 Times UEFA Cup, 1977 European Cup Runner-Up
International Honours : 1974 FIFA World Cup Winners
1970 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
1972 European Championship Winner, 1976 Runner-Up
Individual Achievement : 1977 European Defender of The Year
2 Times German Footballer Of The Year (1971, 1979)
2 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star Team (1974, 1978)
“The Terrier” Berti Vogts is the best European right-back of all-time. He was the most instrumental player in a backline of Germany to success in every international tournament between 1970 -1976 especially World Cup 1974 final round which his best highlight was appeared, was able to effectively neutralizing and mark Johan Cruijff not to reach his prime level. However, He was very overshadowed by Beckenbauer whom he partly forced his greatness. He was known for his aggressive style, uncompromising, tireless and world-class tackling was not only great in defensive game as a right full-back. He was rated as a world-class player 5.5 seasons and International-Class 6.5 seasons from kicker ranking in Bundesliga. According to German Footballer of the year voting, He also finish second place twice times, was German defender of the year five times and was named in Bundesliga team.of the season ten times and was the most weekly appearances of a Bundesliga team of the season twice in 1971 and 1976. He is also rated by Kicker as player of the bundesliga four times. Additionally, Vogts was finished 5th of Ballan D’or in 1975 and also finished 15th, 10th, 13th and 10th Ballon'Dor in 1971, 1974, 1976 and 1977, respectively. He was chosen by 1 media from total 3 in 1974 World Cup best XI and 2 from 9 medias in 1978 World Cup best XI.
____________________________________
Nation : Italy,
Position : Advanced Sweeper, Major Club : Juventus
World Cup Participation : 1978, 1982, 1986 (18 Games)
Club Honours : 7 Times Italian Series A, 2 Times Copa Italia
1977 UEFA Cup, 1984 UEFA Cup Winners’s Cup
1985 European Cup, 1983 Runner-Up
1985 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1982 FIFA World Cup Winners
Individual Achievement : 1980 UEFA Euro Best Defender
Gaetano Scirea is one of the best defenders the world has ever seen, was a World-Class classic libero and was the best defender of the World in the 1st half 1980s, has never been as well-known from fan around the world as his great ability. Consequently, He is regarded as one of the most underrated footballers of all-time. Scirea was a graceful defender of great vision and ball controlling skills and tactical ability, played the sweeper, or libero, role for most of his career, and contributed to the development of this position initiated by Franz Beckenbauer in the 1970s. In the latter part of his career, Scirea played a more defensive central-defender role, which he excelled at just the same. According to media rating, he is the best Series A defender only once in 1979. He was a gentleman never got sent-off or suspended in his career. Scirea is also one of only nine players in the history of the European football that won all three major UEFA football competitions. Scirea was nominated in Ballon'Dor only once and finished 12th place in 1982. He was chosen by 8 medias from total 14 in 1982 FIFA World Cup best XI.
_______________________________________6. Daniel Passarella
Date Of Birth : 25 May 1953
Nation : Argentina,
Height : 173 cm, Position : Advanced Sweeper
Major Club : River Plate, Fiorentina
World Cup Participation : 1978, 1982, 1986 (12 Games)
Club Honors : 4 Times Argentina Champion
International Honors : 1978 FIFA World Cup Winners
Individual Achievement :
1976 Argentina League Footballer Of The Year
3 Times South American Defender of The Year (1978,1979,1980)
3 Times South American Defender of The Year (1978,1979,1980)
“The Great Captain” Daniel Passarella is one of the greatest defenders ever to come from the Americas and one of the best defender-scorer in history of the game. His leadership, passion and his organization prowess on the field led him as an outstanding captain leading Argentina to make a victory winning their first World Cup. He was a libero who excellent in the air despite his medium height and often join the attack to make a lot of scores. He was also noted for using his elbows against rivals whilst managing to avoid the referee's gaze. Passarella kept the second best record as top scoring defender only to Ronald Koeman. He scored more than 180 goals in his club career. His wonderful season was 1976 that he incredibly scored 24 goals from 35 matches. Passarella is considered the best defender in Series A once time in 1986 according to media rating. Unfortunately, He didn’t play any game in world cup 1986 just because of fractious relationship with Bilardo and Maradona. Passarella finished 7th, 4th, 8th, 6th, 6th and 7th South American footballer of the year in 1976, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981 and 1982, respectively.
_______________________________________
5. Giacinto Facchetti
Date Of Birth :
18 July 1942
Nation : Italy, Caps : 94 Games,
Position : Left-Back, Major
Club : Inter Milan
World Cup
Participation : 1966, 1970, 1974 (12 Games)
Club
Honours : 4 Times Italian Series A, 1 Time Copa
Italia
2 Times European Cup
Winners (1964, 1965)
2 Times European Cup
Runner-Up (1967, 1972)
2 Times Intercontinental
Cup (1964, 1965)
International
Honours : 1968 European Championship Winner
1970 FIFA World Cup
Runner-Up
Individual Achievement
: 1970 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
1965 Silver Ball
European Footballer Of The Year
1968 UEFA Euro Best Defender
2 Times European Defender of The Year (1965, 1968)
1968 UEFA Euro Best Defender
2 Times European Defender of The Year (1965, 1968)
Facchetti is best remembered as the
greatest wing-back ever in history of the European football. He primarily played as wing-back in club career, would make
marauding run upfield using his wonderful running, dribbling and crossing, even
sometimes done well as left-attacker to make scores. When switch to play for Italy, Facchetti played deeper as a full-back and in the late career he could also play as
center-back which his tackling was used great effect, possessed excellent
stamina, great leadership and scored important goals. He is compared by some as
“Beckenbauer in version of side-back” for his leadership and technical ability.
He was one of the Le Grande Inter which was notable with completely defensive
game. He was also voted in 5th Ballan D’or in 1968 and also finished 13th and 12th in 1971 and 1973 Ballon'Dor, respectively. Facchetti is the only player
to be retired number for Inter Milan which he is one of the greatest players n
history of the club and played 634 official games with scoring 75 goals.
_______________________________________
4. Bobby Moore
Date Of Birth :
12 April 1941
Nation : England, Caps : 108 Games,
Position : Sweeper, Major Club : West Ham United
World Cup
Participation : 1962, 1966. 1970(18 Games)
Club Honours :1 Time FA Cup, 1 Time Cup Winners’s Cup
International
Honours : 1966 FIFA World Cup Winner
Individual Achievement
: 1964 FWA Footballer Of The Year
1966 Silver Ball, 1970
Bronze Ball FIFA World Cup
1966 BBC Sports
Personality of The Year
1966 FIFA World Cup Best Defender, European Defender of The Year
1966 FIFA World Cup Best Defender, European Defender of The Year
UEFA Jubilee Award
(Golden Player of England)
English Football Hall
of Fame, 1967 Award to O.B.E
1968 UEFA Euro Best XI, 1970 Silver Ball Ballon'Dor
1994 FIFA World Cup
All-Time Team
1998 FIFA World Team of Century
1998 FIFA World Team of Century
Bobby Moore is one of the most
iconic English footballers evert and is one of the greatest international defenders of all-time. His greatness has been appeared with a statue
outside Wembley stadium. Moore was admired for his reading of the game and
ability to anticipate opposition movement, played as center-back mostly by his
genius positional play, as he had uncanny intuitive sense for where the ball
was headed. His timing in the tackle was unmatched, and he was rarely off of
his feet while winning the ball back for his team. Moore is known as a true
leader and gentleman with his fair play. Moore is the best defender in English league 4 times according to reader poll in 1960s and analysis of the 1970s performance. In 1966, He was voted as the fourth
best of Ballon D’or, and he was also voted in top ten Ballon'Dor in 1971 and 1972. Moore was voted seventh place the best player in history
of World Cup by France Football.
_______________________________________
3. Franco Baresi
Date Of Birth : 8 May 1960
Nation : Italy, Caps : 81 Games,
Position : Sweeper, Major Club : AC Milan
World Cup Participation :
1982, 1986, 1990, 1994 (10 Games)
Club
Honors : 6 Times Italian Series A
3 Times European Cup
(1989, 1990, 1994), 1993 Runner-Up
2 Times
Intercontinental Cup (1989, 1990)
International
Honors : 1994 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
1990 FIFA World Cup
Third Place
Individual Achievement
: 1990 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
1989 Silver Medal
European Footballer Of The Year
1990 Guerin Italian
Series A Footballer Of The Year
2 Times European Defender of The Year (1989, 1993)
2 Times European Defender of The Year (1989, 1993)
AC Milan Player Of
Century
“Piscinin” Franco Baresi is
acknowledged by many as the greatest center-back in history of the game. He perfectly
played as sweeper and being the most important role for AC Milan’s famous
defensive line which kept record without conceding a goal in consecutive more
than 900 minutes. Baresi was honoured to retire number 6 for AC Milan. Even his
lower-average tall of his, He still always managed with aerial ball well.
Baresi was a footballer leader with excellent technique, vision and courage on
the pitch. In spite of his world-class performance, He was just a start of
Italy national team because departure of Gaetano Scirea. Baresi is considered as the best defender in Series A four times (1989 - 1992 and 1994) according to media rating. He was voted in 8th, 6th and 11th Ballon'Dor in 1988, 1993 and 1994, respectively and was voted in top ten FIFA World Player of the year in other three different years (1991 (6th), 1992 (9th), 1994 (9th)). Baresi was voted in
top twenty in Europe’s player of century by IFFHS’s poll and in the greatest
player of century in World Soccer’s poll.
_______________________________________
2. Paolo Maldini
Date Of Birth
: 29 June 1968
Nation
: Italy
Position :
Left-Full-Back/ Center-Back
Height :
187 cm
Major Club
: AC Milan
Caps : 126
Games
World Cup
Participation : 1990, 1994, 1998, 2002 (23 Games)
Club Honours
: 7 Times Italian Series A, 1 Time Copa Italia
5 Times UEFA Champion
League (1989,1990,1994,2003,2007)
3 Times UEFA Champion
League Runner-Up (1993,1995,2005)
International
Honours : 1994 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
2000 European
Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement
1989 Bravo Award
2 Times European Championship Team Of Tournament (1996,
2000)
2 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star (1990, 1994)
1994 FIFA World Cup Best Defender
1994 FIFA World Cup Best Defender
2 Times Bronze Ball European Footballer Of The Year (1994,
2003)
1994 World Soccer Player Of The Year
1995 Silver Ball FIFA World Player Of The Year
2004 Series A Defender Of The Year
2007 UEFA Champion League Best Defender
4 Times European Defender of The Year (1994, 1995, 2003, 2005)
4 Times European Defender of The Year (1994, 1995, 2003, 2005)
Paolo Maldini is regarded by so many
as the greatest defender of all-time after his retirement at 41 years old. He
was honoured to retire number 3 for AC Milan where he holds the record all-time most appearances with totally playing 902
matches for 25 seasons and also holds all-time record most appearance in
European Cup with 139 games. In total career games, he made more than 1020 appearances. He incredibly debuted in Italian series A at 16
year olds and becoming a world-class defender since his only 20 years old for
AC Milan and Italy and sustain his level through 1990s before switching from
left-back to center-back during 2000s which he still reach world-class in some
years. He was also voted in top ten Ballon D’or in 1993 (7th), 1995 (7th), 2000 (10th) and 2005 (6th),
also being voted in top ten FIFA World Player Of The Year in 1994 (5th), 1996 (7th) and 2005 (9th).
Maldini is a modern defender with considerable technique and vision, solid
defensively, quick and with excellent recuperation skills. He is the best defender in Series A four times according to media rating (1988, 1993, 1995 and 2004). Maldini holds the
all-time World Cup record of 2,217 consecutive minutes played and also holds
with Francisco Gento of the all-time most appearances in European Cup final
with 8. Maldini was finished 10th in UEFA Jubilee Poll as the best European
footballer in last 50 years. He was named in ESM team of the year 23 times and team of the year 3 times.
1. Franz Beckenbauer
Date Of Birth
: 11 September 1945
Nation : Germany
Position : Advanced Sweeper
Height : 181 cm
Major Club : Bayern Munich
Caps : 103 Games (14 Goals)
World Cup
Participation : 1966, 1970, 1974 (18 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Bundesliga, 4 Times DFB Pokal
3 Times European Cup
(1974, 1975, 1976)
1 Time Cup Winner’s
Cup, 1976 Intercontinental Cup
International
Honours : 1974 FIFA World Cup Winners
1966 FIFA World Cup
Runner-Up
1972 European
Championship Winners
1976 European Championship Runner-Up
1976 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement
4 Times German Footballer Of The Year
(1966, 1968, 1974, 1976)
3 Times FIFA World Cup All-Stars Team (1966, 1970, 1974)
2 Times UEFA Euro Best Defender (1972,
1976)
1966 FIFA World Cup Young Player Of Tournament
1974 FIFA World Cup Silver Ball - Best Defender
1966 Bronze Ball European Footballer of The Year
European Footballer Of The Year : Gold (1972, 1976),
Bayern Munich - Bundesliga Greatest Player Ever
1994 FIFA World Cup All-Time Team
1998 FIFA World Team Of Century
1999 IFFHS Germany Player of The Century
1999 Silver Ball IFFHS European Player of The Century
1999 Silver Ball IFFHS European Player of The Century
1999 Bronze Ball IFFHS World Player of The Century
“Der Kaiser” Franz Beckenbauer is
regarded as one of the greatest footballers ever in history of the game and the
greatest German footballer of all-time. He originally started playing as
defensive midfielder before moved to attacking libero which he controlled
rhythmic in defensive able to advance on offensive mission with his elegant
style of play. Beckenbauer was rated for Kicker magazine in 10.5 world-class
seasons and 2.5 international-class seasons, This would be according to his
record the most appearances in top five of Ballon D’or with 10 times. He was
known for his leadership and effectiveness to read the game. According to German
Footballer of the year voting, He also finished second place four times, was
German defender of the year 8 times and holds the record most appearances in Bundesliga team of the season with 12 and holds the record most seasons with most weekly appearances with 7 and most weekly appearances in a single season with 16. Beckenbauer is not the greatest ever
as defensive player but his creativity, passing, long shooting, holding with ball and
defensive game led him as one of the most completed footballer the world has
ever produced. He scored more than 50 goals and made 67 assists in his whole club career.
Beckenbauer was voted 4th and 6th World player of century from World
Soccer and France football’s poll, respectively, was voted 3rd the best player
in history of World Cup by France Football, was finished 2nd in UEFA Jubilee
Poll as the best European footballer in last 50 years.
_______________________________________Paul Janes
Date Of Birth : 10 March 1912
Nation : Germany
Caps : 71 Games
Caps : 71 Games
Position : Right-Full-Back
Height : 178 cm
Major Club : Dusseldorf
World Cup Participation : 1934, 1938 (4 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time German Champion
International Honours : 1934 FIFA World Cup Third Place
Individual Achievement : None
Paul Janes is the
best defender in the world in the second half 1930s and is considered as a
player who helped to shape the beginning phase of German football was a member
and leader of the famous legend "Breslau Eleven" which is refer to
Germany national team in the 1930s .Paul Janes established a record for most
German caps which wasn’t broken until 1970. Janes started out as a right half
back, but during the 1934 World Cup he debuted as right back and stayed at that
position for the rest of his career. One of Janes’ best assets was his powerful
yet accurate shooting ability, which gave him the nickname "World Champion
of Precision". His trademark was hard shots from all possible angles. He
rarely was caught off-guard on the pitch, as he had the ability to anticipate
what the opponent was planning and he interpreted defensive play always as the
first step in building up the next attack. His career was interrupted by World
War I but still return to play firs-level matches in the post-war era and
retired at 38 years old. The DFB list him in the top 20 best German footballers
of all time. Paul-Janes Stadium, homeground of Dusseldorf in the past was named
after him
_______________________________________
Branko
Zebec
Date Of Birth
: 17 May 1929
Nation : Yugoslavia,
Position : Left-Wing-Back/ Center-Back
Height : 176 cm, Major Club
: Redstar Belgrade
World Cup
Participation : 1958, 1962
Club
Honors : 1 Time Yugoslavian
League
2 Times Yugoslavian
Cup
International
Honours : 1952 Olympic Game Silver Medal
1960 European
Championship Runner-Up
Individual
Achievement : 1952 Olympic Games Top Scorer
Branco Zebec is one of greatest
players in Yugoslavian history and is one of the most completed and versatile
footballers of all-time, could play everywhere on the pitch, primarily perform as
left-winger and occasionally switched to many other positions, notably reached world-class in the late career as center-back. True
leader, fast thinker, understood the game superbly. He was tough and a little
bit skinny, but with muscles. He began his senior career at only 16 years old
as a left-winger, played with great acceleration, speed and mobility. He could
ran 100m for 11s, in football boots. Zebec played very good with his head and
he was very calm in important moments. He was also very strong in duels and
practically unstoppable on the left side. Zebec wasn't too sophisticated
technical player, but he controlled ball very well. In the game he was very
brave and rational as well. Never made a move too much, used dribble only when
it's necessary. Zebec was known for his reliability of playing, really hard to
see him mistake. However, He was never nominated in Ballon'Dor.
_______________________________________
Renzo De Vecchi
Date Of Birth : 3 February 1894
Nation : Italy
Position : Semi-Left-Back
Height : 163 cm
Major Club : Genoa
Caps : 43 Games
Olympic Games Participation : 1912, 1920, 1924
Club Honours : 3 Times Italian Series A
International Honours : None
Individual Achievement : Genoa's Greatest Player Ever
Renzo De Vecchi is the greatest defender in the World between the 2nd half 1910 and 1st half 1920s. He played in amateur era of Italian Football, made his debut with Milan in Serie A when he was just 15 year olds and, when he was only 19, Genoa (italia's best team at the time) bought him for a record price. He was the leader and the best player of the Genoa side who won three Scudetto (he was the captain for 8 years) ; he's then been the youngest player ever to make his debut with the Italy national team (16 years old) at 20 he was already the captain of Italia, and was by far the best player of the team. As a player he was a left-back and had amazing skills: the press and his team-mates called him "Il Figlio di Dio" (The Son of God, literally) because he had no flaws. He was fast, strong, agile; he was a great tackler and passer and had an amazing technique even he was a defender. De Vecchi participated in three Olympic Games which Italy failed in all tournaments.
_______________________________________
* John Charles and Paul Breitner
These two players were not best at defender position although they both ever achieved world-class as defender. John Charles played as center-back in a few seasons before switching
to settle down playing as target striker which he spent his peak performance. Paul Breitner played as left wing-back in more seasons than midfielder and
was rated in a world class season which did not include his performance in Real
Madrid. But still, He was similar to Matthias Sammer to find his best position
in late career. Breitner changed his position to play as central midfielder and
becoming one of the greatest midfielders in the world. Accordingly, I would not
rank them in anywhere in DF list as a rule that player was eligible to be ranked only one
position in the series.
_______________________________________
Statistics
By Position
Left-Back : 9
Right-Back
: 11.5
Center-Back
: 14
Sweeper : 11.5
Advanced
Sweeper : 5
By Nation
Italy : 12
Germany : 8
Brazil : 7
France : 4
Argentina : 2
England : 2
Uruguay : 2
Spain : 2
Spain : 2
Soviet Union : 1
Scotland : 1
By Decade
1910s : 0.5
1920s : 2.5
1930s : 1.5
1940s : 0.5
1950s : 5.5
1960s : 6
1970s : 6.5
1980s : 10.5
1990s : 10.5
2000s : 4
2010s : 3.5
2010s : 3.5
2020s : 0.5
____________________________________
CLASSIFICATION
Class : Crown
None
|
||
Class : King
|
||
Gold
None
|
Silver
Franz Beckenbauer
|
Bronze
Paolo Maldini, Franco Baresi
|
Class : Queen
|
||
Gold
Bobby Moore, Daniel Passsarella,
Giacinto Facchetti,
Gaetano Scirea, Nilton Santos, Elias
Figueroa, Ruud Krol
|
Silver
Giuseppe Bergomi
Carlos Alberto, Djalma Santos, Alessandro Nesta, Berti Vogts, Matthias Sammer, Jose Leandro Andrade
Fabio Cannavaro, Lilian Thuram Roberto
Carlos, Jose Nasazzi, Jurgen Kohler, Billy Wright
Andreas Brehme, Antonio Cabrini
Domingos Da Guia,
Leovegildo Junior, Karlheinz Schnellinger Hector Chumpitaz, Javier Zanetti |
Bronze
Albert Shesternev, Claudio Gentile
Carles Puyol, Marcel Desailly
Hans Peter Briegel,
Alessandro Costacurta Daniel Alves, Ciro Ferrara
Phillipe Lahm, Manuel Amoros Laurent Blanc, Fernando Hierro,
Victor Rodriguez Andrade
Karlheinz Forster, Jose Santamaria, Marcos Cafu |
Substitution Group : First-Class
Wili Schulz : West Germany/60s
Silvio Marzolini : Argentina/60s
Velibor Vasovic : Yugoslavia/60s
Roberto Perfumo : Argentina/Late 60s to Early 70s
Fritz Tarp : Denmark/20s
Pietro Vierchowod : Italy/80s to Early 90s
Jose Antonio Camacho : Spain/80s
Roberto Perfumo : Argentina/Late 60s to Early 70s
Fritz Tarp : Denmark/20s
Pietro Vierchowod : Italy/80s to Early 90s
Jose Antonio Camacho : Spain/80s
Marius Tresor : France/Late 70s to Early 80s
Jan Popluhar : Czechoslovakia/ Late 50s to Early 60s
Luis Pereira : Brazil/1970s
Luis Pereira : Brazil/1970s
____________________________________
The Highest Defender's Peaks of All-Time
1. Franz Beckenbauer
2. Matthias Sammer
3. Jose Leandro Andrade
3. Jose Leandro Andrade
4. Elias Figueroa
5. Daniel Passarella
6. Paolo Maldini
7. Gaetano Scirea
6. Paolo Maldini
7. Gaetano Scirea
8. Bobby Moore
9.
9. Lilian Thuram
10. Ronald Koeman
9. Lilian Thuram
10. Ronald Koeman
Good evening! I am a little confused by equalizing role-libero and sweeper. As for me and my knowledge of football, it's a different role. Libero- word itself suggests, libero- free. These are the players who are usually played in front of two center-back. They had better ball control than conventional center back. They had the initiative forward. Classic examples are: Beckenbauer, Morten Olsen, Sammer ... Sweeper- word itself says it all. Usually behind the two center back. It has a sense of organization and accountability, and usually more defensive characteristics. Franco Baresi is known to play as well as Popluhár and Vasovic. The last thing I remember, it was Igor Stimac in the Croatian jersey at the World Cup in France. And libero and sweeper possess distinct leadership traits. A distinction is made by me and posit stopper. The most classic examples are by me Bergomi Kohler and Gentile. Today's dominant classic center back. Kind regards!
ReplyDeleteI think it should have been cleared about the global name of sweeping role and advanced defender role but honesty even nowadays it is still not clear and Libero is actually just a sweeper in Italian language by no difference of extent. I understand your point and at least I should differentiate it, I’d revise position name as “advanced sweeper” for Beckenbauer, Sammer, Scirea, Passarella, Olsen, Vasovic, etc
DeleteMorten Olsen began his career on the right wing. He continued as a defensive midfielder, and is remembered solely as a libero. The position of center-back in Anderlecht have played with him Peruzovic, Broos and Grun, and the Danish national team, Ivan Nielsen and Busk. They all stood behind him like a fuse while he was free after their operation. He was a libero. He was not a center back or defensive midfielder. Otherwise, the entire idea of the level of information is great. Kind regards!
ReplyDeleteOh, I see. I copied his profile from another player and change details but forgot to change position in all-time Denmark squad. Surely Olsen’s peak was performed as advanced sweeper but he also played as defensive midfielder so long.
DeleteYes, he played until his 31 years. Tomislav Ivic was moved in 1980 to the position of libero. And there was only entered into legend. In this position he played is why it is respected
ReplyDeleteCan you make a top 10 list just by defending skill? Not as overall player quality but just defending.
ReplyDeleteVery good idea ! but for this post, it includes only performance aspect so I’ve provided the list of them. Please see in the post. For the best pure defending skill, It is very similar to performance list, just move E.Figueroa to be ahead of Bobby Moore.
DeleteAnd what about Sammer?
DeleteOh, sorry, i didn't see the your new list i thought you were referring to best peak list.
Delete"The Greatest Pure Defending Performers Ever
ReplyDelete1. Baresi 2. Maldini 3. Moore 4. Figueroa 5. Scirea 6. Vogts
7. Nesta 8. Santamaria 9. Bergomi 10. Facchetti"
I would take out Moore, Figueroa, Vogts, Santamaria, Scirea, Facchetti and add:
Kohler
Thuram
Tresor
Desailly
Gentile
Forster
In my opinion Nesta and Baresi are the top two pure defenders. Intelligence, technique and effectiveness. Gentile and Bergomi the two greatest Italian markers.
Kohler and Forster, the two best German pure stoppers I have seen need to be included.
Desailly, Thuram and Tresor, physically dominant but very intelligent.
My All-Time Top 10 Complete Defenders
Baresi=Scirea>Beckenbauer
Nesta>Maldini
Moore>Figueroa
Passarella>Facchetti
Krol
You say Krol obtained the highest point average seasonal rating by media among defenders in history. Can you post a link with this source?
ReplyDeleteIt is the rating in dbscalcio.com. Krol got around 7.00 average point in that season. Anyway, the standard of given points is different between eras.
DeleteVasovic has to be in front of Amoros and Vierchowod
ReplyDeleteDear, Readers
ReplyDeleteIt will be a good news for AC Milan's fan. After I calculate performance of Costacurta in the system, I found he would beat Jacinto Quincoces who was extremely limited in opportunity in both domestic and international career. The professional Spanish La Liga was created when he was already 24 years old but he first participated at his 25 years old and unfortunately Spanish Civil War prevent him from extending his career after playing in La Liga only 6 seasons. Therefore, his domestic career is below average in term of longevity. Internationally, he won only 25 caps as there were a few available games at that time.
Note that all performances of Costacurta calculated into the system all are from 1990s. For the 2000s, he is considered below international-class.
Carlos Alberto has to be Queen Silver class and you have omitted the class of Vierchowod and Zebec.
ReplyDeleteLahm and john terry should be in this list. also kaltz.
ReplyDeleteWhat about Bixente Lizarazu?
ReplyDeleteBixente Lizarazu was once named in my top 50 DF when I first created the list. He was rated by kicker only 6 international-class seasons. He participated only 60 % of total Bundesliga matches during 7 seasons due to injury and he seems to be below average on body condition for defender position which is required a high consistent physical condition. I think he got to his prime a bit too late at the latter of 20 years old. He was also never voted high place in Ballon’Dor based on defender standard.
DeleteHi Dearman, I am very interested in your take on Maldini vs Baresi.
ReplyDeleteI am pretty sure Dani Alves should be here. Cafu is 29. and 15. in def. lateral while Alves is 34. They play similar style and while Cafu is better the difference certainly is not that large.
ReplyDeleteI see Cafu is stronger and made a mistake much less than Daniel Alves. Importantly, Cafu is far better in performance for Brazil national team.
DeleteThe difference is done in Brazil National team even if it's really hard to not see D.Alves higher.
DeleteHowever he was also good with Juventus... did a good start with QSG.
Does it change something ?
P. G.
He is the best right back in the World in at least 5 years but there is really no close candidate in this era. His best place in ballon dor is only 19th. I think it is clear hevis not good enough.
DeleteI would suggest Sergio Ramos
ReplyDeleteFrom his first season as a starter he impresses being named La Liga breaktrough player of the year
In his first Season at Real Madrid he already becomes an undisputed starter.
Next year he becomes World Class , and even amongst the top players
http://www.xtratime.org/forum/156-world-football/226571-xtratime-world-player-year-2007-countdown-3.html
Here he was voted 15th best player of the year.
Next Year he became the greatest defender in the world , fact highlighted at the Ballon d'Or aswell. And he was included in all the Best XI of the year(ESM/FIFA/UEFA)
Next Season Real founded difficult time and no recognition is available but he was still Real's best defender.
In 2010 he was the 6th best player in La Liga according to average ratings and also won the World Cup being named MVP according to player grades.
In 2011 , he is named in FIFA Team of the Year
In 2012 he is the best defender on the planet being named La Liga Best Defender, UEFA Team of the Year , ESM Team of the Year and won the EURO being named MVP according to castrol ratings. Also highest defender at the Ballon d'Or.
In 2013 he's named La Liga Best Defender and included in UEFA Team of the Year and FIFA Team of the Year.
In 2014 he's named La Liga Best Defender and included in UEFA Team of the Year and FIFA Team of the Year having a remarkable year with his heroics for Real , CWC Mvp , being even tiped for the Ballon d'Or by some personalities.
In 2015 , he was for the 4th time consecutively named La Liga Best Defender fo the Year and was included in all possible all star teams of the year(ESM/UEFA/FIFA)
In 2016 thing will be no different. He is already named in La Liga and UCL team of the season and UCL Final Motm.
He has won and incredible amount of trophies and qualities and was always rewarded in all competitions with individual recognition , whether it was as usually for awards with opinion of experts , or even based on objective statistics. He has 136 caps at such a young age and is surely qualified for your list.
Another defender who has been equally impressive with Ramos in this era has been Lahm , who surely surpassed Schulz in German history.
I advise you include both Ramos and Lahm in the ranking.
It is unnecessary to consider the data of awards or status of rating in Sergio Ramos case when we have seen him enough and I’m very clear his defensive ability is not good enough. Nowadays he played against much easier attackers also. I suggest you to lay down your biased view on Real Madrid players. Lahm is rated by kicker in national level in too many times.
DeleteHe plays many times per year against Messi,Suarez,Neymar,Iniesta etc. That is far from easy. In fact it is probably the most effective atacking trio in history.
DeleteAnd you have defenders in your ranking who weren't world class at defending , as opossed to Ramos.
He was rated as the 6th best player in La Liga in 2010 mostly on defensive contribution , having 90 succesful tackles and 119 interceptions in that season and also 3.7 tackle per game in the UCL.
Next season he made 81 succesful tackles in La Liga and was dribbled past only 7 times in the ENTIRE league season. That is outstanding.
And I'd give more weight to wide media rating than to kicker. Lahm has been constantly ranked the best/one of the best defenders in the world for so many seasons just like Ramos , and even amongst the top players of the world.
I don’t mention to those famous superstar specifically since it is just happen in Spanish Derby Match. I was talking about overall attackers in nowadays. The modern era has very few world-class defenders in comparison to the previous eras so his more prolific awards or greater statistics doesn’t mean he is better than a ton of the world-class defenders that congregated in the past.
DeleteAnd you base that on something else than your wishes?
DeleteI reffered to that Spanish derby match because it is what people usualy follow of him. Ramos has had to face the likes of Ronaldinho , Eto'o , David Villa , Diego Forlán , Diego Milito , Deco , Iniesta , Sergio Agüero , Thierry Henry , Zlatan Ibrahimović , Radamel Falcao , Alexis Sánchez , Diego Costa , Antoine Griezmann , Cesc Fàbregas , Luis Suárez , Neymar , Messi etc. in La Liga. What fierce atacking players did Schulz , Andrade , Janes , Shesternev , Marzolini , Vasovic etc face that makes Ramos' look weak? In fact at least ahlf of the list hasn't faced the amount of atacking talent that Ramos faced in his league.
ReplyDeleteHow can Victor Rodriguez Andrade be ahead of Ramos? Neither of us have seen Andrade play so I can't make an accurate comparasion in abilities but the only(or at least most famosu) source that caompares players abilities troughout eras is pes stats wich as inaccurate as they are , they are very generous on legend stats and have been criticised for overrating them often.
Andrade vs Ramos in pes stats:
Atack: 70-75
DEFENCE:80-84
Balance:83-85
Stamina:91-87(I doubt it but I give them the benefit of doubt)
Top speed:84-84(FIFA's official records confirmed that Ramos has been clocked at a sprinting speed of 30.6 kilometers per hour so I doubt this one aswell)
Acceleration:82-81
Response:85-86
Aggility:86-77
Dribbling accuracy:82-83
Dribble speed:84-81
Short pass acc:84-81
Short pass speed:78-82
Long pass acc:82-85
Long pass speed:80-84
Shoot acc:74-69
shoot power:82-83
shoot technique:75-75
Free kick:72-74
curl:74-83
heading:80-92
jump:85-90
technique:84-83
aggresion:72-76
mentality:87-86(Ramos is nicknamed the Lion but maybem I misunderstand this stats and has to do with his composure)
team work:90-70
In clonclusion Ramos is clearly the superior player. If you have any more realiable stat in your head maybe it could change but I'd agree no doubt Ramos is better.
Consistency is out of the question with most defenders. Ramos has started as a super early bloomer and has been amongst the best year by year also reaching an insane amount of caps.
Trophy cabinet is abnormal , with also a ton of individual awards.
He has proven himself in the best league in the wrold , in the best club competition and at NT level at the highest level in both EURO and WC.
And has been rated at the highest in both awards , statistics and praise by all time greates(Maldini said he is his heir , Ancelotti compared him to Maldini , Cannavaro tipped him for Ballon d'Or etc.)
How can Ramos not be far ahead of Andrade in the ranking?
V.R Andrade has its own problem to acquire evidence is different story to consider S.Ramos who has long been seen his footage. You list only attacker names of the current era but omit to name all of great attackers in the previous era. I don’t need to waste time to type every name but each nations had a more competitiveness of candidates to be a starter. In nowadays, who could beat Rooney in his decline period, who is the best forwards in these years and they’re even not closed to Van Nistelrooy, Van Basten. Look at Italy is even worse. There is no top-class Forwards for a long time. In 90s, there was a ton of top-class forwards (Baggio, Zola, Signori, Mancini, etc). Germany is the post-era of Klose is a main reason why Germany failed in the recent Euro. There is no great target striker until Thomas Muller essentially took this role.
DeleteRamos appeared twice times in FIFA Ballon’Dor and finished 19th and 23th is not impressive for a player who won many international trophies and as I said this era is considered to be weaker in quality of top level group.
DeleteRamos has been nominated at the Ballon d'Or 3 times (you ommited 2008?) , 2 of wich he was the highest rated defender of the year. And in 2014 he was the 2nd because of a brillant performance from Lahm.
DeleteSo please break it down for better understanding , why is Andrade ahead of Ramos? I understand it's difficult to present his career as explicit as Ramos' , but you have to have your reasoning. I just showed you in the last comments how good Ramos have been , so please clarify why you rank Andrade above him.
It has not been a secret that players in the pre-1960s have a very few evidence of footage to watch but their value in their own era should be saved. Andrade in the 1954 World Cup was seen to be one of the best Uruguayan players and is deserved top 10 best players of tournament. Andrade anyway was a more midfielder if applied to nowadays tactic so his offensive quality is way greater than general full-back. He was very all-round players, strong and technical approach.
DeleteBut this issue is not needed to link with Ramos. Even there is none of Andrade, Ramos is still not qualified and I don’t want to waste too much time with you biased view on Real Madrid players Pele10brazil. I have a ton of works to done.
I have not spoken anything biased in these comments really... Only facts mate. And I'll let you know that Ramos has also been succesfully deployed as a midfielder and he was also ranked MVP of both EURO and World Cup according to objective average ratings. Alltough it doesn't refelcts the truth , that bassically makes Andrade's biggest achievement of being one of the best players at World Cup irellevant. I was just trying to point out that there is no relevance in Andrade's ranking ahead of Ramos and was not trying to disrupt your work. I also make my own series and wanted to be more educated on the matter. But as a side note , Andrade isn't the only defender on the list that I highlighted as clearly inferior to Ramos. When you have time I can break down the same way as I have proved with Andrade with many other defenders.
DeleteP.S. Many of my comments here have modified your works and helped you with your series so I wouldn't call my comments waste of time. Cheers!
There is no fact on the player rating. It is biased because you cite only awards and raw rating without analysis of data. Also, you mention and prepare stats for only Real Madrid players.
DeleteBy fact I meant that the awards and statistics. Based on them and , forming an overall performance augumented by overall ability and opinions of contemporary experts and greats , I formed an opinion around Ramos status in history. And I was curious on your motivation on some of the recipients on the list being ahead of him(the example I took being Andrade).
DeleteRamos once again magnificent being named MotM in the UEFA Super Cup. He is dominating his era!
DeleteI suggest a bit revision on Roberto Carlos' role. He was clearly regarded ahead of his contemporaries Thuram and Nesta.
ReplyDeleteIt is known that Carlos was clearly inferior in defensive abilities but afaik this is not a ranking of pure defenders , otherwise he would be lower than 15.
Given that for example , Nesta and R.Carlos were both contemporary defenders , here is how they were both rated:
Nesta: 5th-2000 , 14/15th-2001 , 16th-2003 , nom-2004
R.Carlos: 5th-1997 , 13th-1998 , 26/31th-1999 , 16th-2000, 18/21th-2001 , 2nd-2002 , 8th-2003 , nom-2005(Ballon d'Or)
Also at the FIFA WPOTY it's still crushing:
Nesta: 8th-2000
R.Carlos: 2nd-1997 , 4th-2002 , 5th-2003
And World Soccer Player of the Year:
Nesta: 10th-2000
R.Carlos: 4th-1997 , 3rd-2002 , 9th-2003
And also rated by the wide poll of expert all across Europe , in the ESM Team of the Year , Roberto Carlos has been included an ALL TIME RECORD 7 times , while Nesta has ZERO inclusions.
With Thuram , the comparasion would ne the same , only not so far better. The satus of them is clear , R.Carlos is even rated by many as one of the greatest in modern era , while the 2 are only amongst defenders.
Maldini or Baresi should be 1st
ReplyDeleteI don't see Lahm in this list. I think he definitely deserves a mention in this list.
ReplyDeleteWhen this season will have been completed, we will see if his rating will be good enough to be ranked in top 50.
DeleteCan you also compile a list for all the full-backs? Right now, you clubbed all kinds of defenders together. How about making a separate list for each type of player? Great work apart from that! I hope you are doing well.
DeleteActually there is another categorization list, please find in http://xtraimmortal.blogspot.com/2014/02/The9x100.html
DeleteThanks mate!
DeleteMy friend, I believe that Elias Figueroa should be listed as National Team A, because according to FIFA.COM article of Figueroa, He was considered the best defender of 1974 World Cup and member of star team of this tournament. Chile did not pass the group stage, but Elías Figueroa who wore the Chilean shirt, reached the highest position as defender by over others like Beckenbauer.
ReplyDeleteIt is also necessary to add in the recognitions that Figueroa was considered better player of the Uruguayan league, that was are in all his splendor, when Figueroa barely had 19 years in 1968, 1969 and 1970.
ReplyDeleteRecapitulating Figueroa was
*The best defender and part of star team 1974 WC.
*Best player of Uruguayan league in 1968-1969-1971.
Thanks, I'll add these awards status.
DeleteAfter another great season with very significant achievements, is Ramos finally going to be included in the list?
ReplyDeleteNo revision on him like you did too Lahm?
DeleteHe has been ranked up in the 9 x 100 positional ranking list but still far to be listed here. His pure defensive skill is not competitive enough.
DeleteHe has been included in the ESM Team of the Year once again this season and scored the most goals in his career. Yet another world class season from Ramos and I wonder how long till you will rank him because he has by far a better career than many on the list(not even talking about trophies but individual performance at the highest level in all competitions).
DeleteOK, That is impressive but note there are not many world-class defenders in the recent era so some related year he was named in FIFPro, UEFA,ESM team of the year could not guarantee his world-class performance standardized with other era. Why I can say that, just check FIFA Ballon Dor ranking since 2012, Only 2016 that the best defender (Pepe) could be voted in top 15 and most of them even below top 20. Ramos was best defender in the World based on FIFA Ballon'dor place in 2012 and 2014 but he was placed at 18th and 23th that is very low. However, he has been dramatically ranked up in central defender list from 68th to 56th as I reviewed his rating again.
DeleteI agree there aren't as many great defenders as years ago but he also was the highest rated defender at the 2008 Ballon d'Or. And FIFA separeted the awards again in 2016 so it's worthy to mention that he was the highest rated defender at the 2016 FIFA World Player of the Year.
DeleteAll in all, I think there are very few defenders in history with so many individual accolades.
In my opinion Carles Puyol should be included in this list. He was a pure class defender with leadership ability. Was he even close to reach this top 50 ?
ReplyDeletePlease in the 9x100 positional ranking list. He is placed around 50th best central defender ever but only 30 central defenders are listed here.
DeleteAnyway 50th best central defender is in my opinion not enough. I may be wrong but what makes him that low ? I am interested.
DeleteP. G.
He dominates defender position in his era but his pure ability isn't that great. He have an easier jobs than many other defenders as his team's ball possession is always high percentage.
DeleteAlways a pleasure to argue :)
DeleteOn the one hand it seems easier to be a defender when your team has possession because you have "less to do", on the other hand when you have to defend in such teams, it's often high on the pitch, with a lot of space to cover and you are faced to "new generation" fast defender such as robben and nobody covers you etc ...
"Less to do" but often harder tasks and I am not sure highly rated "slow" defender would have performed successfully in such situations.
Moreover, with all the respect I have for him, S.Busquets is not the best defensive midfielder to cover a defense.
We can see what gives Spain Defense without Puyol... or Barça's defense when Puyol got older
Then I would add in tactics like the one used by Juventus in 2017 and even if there is "more work", it doesn't mean the work is so complicated for a skilled defender because tactic is done to ease defense and close gaps.
All this to say, I understand your arguments, but I find it strict applied to Puyol
P. G.
I see. Defender in dominated team face a heavier jobs from counter-attack. Puyol did some great performances in this task help Barca surviving from goal conceding several times but he also made many mistakes as I remember well. I'm not impressed with his positional sense.
DeleteLast thing and I am done. Let's take the example of W.Samuel 92 in the 9x100 list. He is the kind of defender with high defending abilities. He is only 92, I presume, because he fails at real madrid.
DeleteBut this failure also shows for a "skilled defender" it's not always easy to be succesful in a team that has possession or with an attacking mentality.
All this to show somebody like Terry for example may have been in trouble in such teams but I can not prove it. It's for me the same kind of arguments that to say "it's easier" when your team has possession.
Anyway, I know I won't manage to convince you to put Puyol higher on the list if I understood your philosophy (the right one I think as it prevents from only focusing on the palmares) but here is my personal feeling about Puyol.
P. G.
W.Samuel got many injuries and also I saw him too rough defender unnecessarily. He always made a fouls to opponent instead of fairly tackle.
DeleteDomingos Da Guia ahead of Fabio Cannavaro? What sorcery is this? Cannavaro is surely far better. One is one of Brazil's best defenders and the other is widley regarded as one of the greatest defenders of all time.
ReplyDeleteWell, I don't think Cannavaro is one of the best defenders ever. He was not great enough in air (Refer to the scene he was beaten by Salas heading goal in the 1998 World Cup and his mistake in the 2000 Euro draw goal). He is also lack of basic technique for defender.
DeleteDomingos Da Guia is highly creditable for his dribbling and technical skill with considerable defensive ability (even it is surely inferior to Cannavaro). Anyway, I'll keep this issue for further study since there are no evidence rating for Domingos Da Guia.
Remember how Cannavaro got owned by Carew in champions league.
DeleteNot good in air??? He is one of the legendary defenders when it comes to aerial ability.
ReplyDeleteFrom his wikipedia:
"he was highly regarded for his aerial ability, courtesy of his elevation, physical strength, athleticism, timing, and heading accuracy, which enabled him to outjump larger players, and made him particularly adept at defending crosses, or at scoring with his head from set-pieces."
Also look at Pes Stats, he has jump 96. And of course anybody who saw him play remembers how he bossed the penalty area where no balls could be coordinated because of his imperial defense. In conclusion Fabio should be ranked much higher than your rating.
Pes stats is not always reliable as there are just a few random clips to assess. Wikipedia is mostly optimistic. I know Cannavaro possesses a relative high jump but he had a problem to manage with the aerial ball. Short player need to spend more time to reach the ball for a high jump than taller player. Not like what Baresi did, he was not great in aerial battle and he was intelligent enough to prevent the situation by taking advantage of position and his opponent struggled to reach the long passed ball by then.
ReplyDeleteYou say about Thuram "high speed" but why do rapidity is only C for him ?
ReplyDeleteI think it is a mistake. However, I don't think his remarkable ability is speed even it should have been higher than C. Revised.
DeleteDon't remember Desailly was that slow : D+ is a bit low no ?
ReplyDeleteHonesty I never think my memory is accurate so I need a time to improve the skill rating.
DeleteSergio Ramos named amongst the 10 best players in Europe this season at the UEFA Men's Player of the Year Award. Another outstanding year for the spanish defender. After all the waiting he surely has to be ranked now.
ReplyDeleteTop100 footballers of all time.Berti Vogts is 90.
ReplyDeleteDjalma Santos is 82.
but berti vogts is better than djalma santos in this list.?
https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TCncrI-_JVI/WccoMDpgJCI/AAAAAAAAOT0/VdvFxHQBG4IQC0LrNCT5bDTvnGOX6zOJgCLcBGAs/s1600/WAGF%2BII.png
I'm surprised that you know what I have just updated. Please just wait. I will update in many lists as Djalma is rated down. He will be also removed from top 100 best player ever.
DeleteStill no Ramos?
ReplyDeleteHe has been ranked 5th best World player of the Year now at the 2017 The Best FIFA Men's Player.
Surely he needs to be ranked since season after season he is outstanding.
"Ramos has been praised for his decisive performances in important games, most notably for Real Madrid, due to his tendency to score clutch goals for his team, and is considered by several pundits to be the best big-game player in the world."-Wikipedia
DeleteIn my opinion Ramos defensive ability is not so impressive and luckily most of his mistakes are compensated by his team and sometimes himself.
DeleteAs the defensive skills are important in this top the only way Ramos could be included may be to perform a world class successful world cup. Naratorn will decide.
However if I understood Naratorn's point of view, expecially when I see Puyol's rating, in team such as spain or barcelona with a high percentage of possession, you are put at a disadvantage because your job consists more in ball-playing than defending. Even if it may sometimes be really to stop counter-attack.
Ramos has been ranked 6th at the Ballon d'Or this year.
ReplyDeleteIf D.Santos is the greatest righ back of all time why there is Thuram and vogts ahead of him ?
ReplyDeleteThere has been a movement in ranking. As I have watched many matches of Djalma, he is not deserved this status anymore.
DeleteFootage of old players will always be disapointing.
DeleteFrom what I remember L.Thuram was a versatile defender, with average offensive skills able to play centre-back, right-back, or semi-right-back. This versatily combined to his great defensive skills may compensate the average offensive skill and makes him a great defender. Thus it may justifiy the ranking in this list.
ReplyDeleteHowever does it mean he is the best right back ever as suggest the 9x100 list ?
Better than D.Santos, C.Alberto, Cafu, Zanetti, Lahm... ?
I also understand defensive skills are more important than offensive skills in your ranking.
Note I understand a player like D.Alves needs to be on top during a big tournament like world cup.
Only equal candidate to him is Berti Vogts who is also great in both defense and offense. I have watched all of them and record skill rating into the calculation system. The result saw Vogts and Thuram is mutually best ever. Note that Thuram peak in 98 world cup is likely to be the best right back performance ever.
DeleteI remember Thuram having troubles marking Munitis in Euro 2000 for example ...
DeleteI remember that scene. Munitiz accelerated inside and Thuram clearly lost his way to another side. Anyway, every defender has a few mistakes or undesirable scenes such as Maldini against Porborski in the 1996 Euro.
DeleteDo you have Top100 footballers of all time ?
ReplyDeleteBeckenbauer, as a midfielder, was box to box, defensive or central holding ?
ReplyDeleteHe could be categorized in both role of box-to-box and defensive holding but box-to-box is more fit when he often went forward as if attacking midfielder.
DeleteWhich left back in this list would suit the best a possession-based game like Guardiola's tiki taka in barcelona ?
ReplyDeleteEspecially if I am convinced Maldini was awesome at defending. What about the offensive part. Would he be ok for Guardiola's Barcelona ?
DeleteMaldini is a great team work player. Tiki Taka is not required a perfect left-back as Abidal was even a part of them with limited offensive ability.
DeleteTrue Abidal was probably the only player with limited offensive ability. I am trying to figure out what would be the greatest 433 false 9 playing tiki taka style of all time. For sure we can accept one player with limited offensive ability but several may break the possession-based game.
DeleteNaratorn, do you have an idea of what would be this team and why ? I want to do a balanced team with the style of barcelona 2008 - 2012 and we have a debate with friends :).
DeleteRequirements are :
- Goal keeper must be a sweeper-keeper
- Centre-backs must be ball-playing centre-backs
- Side backs must be offensive side-backs, with excellent offensive abilities, and pacy to be able to come-back on counter-attack. Average defensive skills may be ok.
- A Defensive-holding midfielder, a central-holding midfielder and a offensive-midfielder. They must be able to sustain a tiki-taka style game, it means they first touch should allow them to not loose anytime to do the next pass.
- Side-Wing Forward must sustain tiki-taka, have average defensive work-rate. Pacy enough to not be caught when they got a through-ball and a decent finishing
- False 9 : natural false 9 is messi but maybe you have better idea.
For you, who was the more skilled player for play only in the wingback position (attack minded)? Nilton Santos, Brehme, Facchetti, Roberto Carlos or Krol?
ReplyDeleteSorry for late reply. As I have watched all of them in many full-matches, I am sure to select Facchetti.
DeleteFacchetti more skillfull than marcelo ?
DeleteSure, skill includes defensive ability also.
DeleteI think the primary question of Anonymous was more related to offensive abilities that's why I suggested Marcelo but I may be wrong.
DeleteSo same question if we consider mainly offensive abilities : L.Junior, Marcelo ...
DeleteSo who is the most offensively skillfull side back of all time ?
DeleteI have not calculated specifically but I'm quite sure Nilton Santos is the best.
DeleteI have seen a few videos and matches and what I could see is he had a good technique and passing but his dribbling ability is clearly under marcelo's one.
DeleteBut maybe you have some materials showing his dribbling is better. I would be interested in.
DeleteI think that Roberto Carlos was the most skilled offensive wing back (focused only in attack). I remember your list of the best skilled players by position and you put Roberto Carlos as the number one. Am I right?
DeleteThat list has been obsoleted. Now I have been making a progressive table. Nilton Santos is much better than R.Carlos in vision and long pass accuracy.
DeleteMmm, maybe in vision, but Roberto Carlos had a great long pass accuracy too. Anyway, don't you think that Nilton was a left back more than a wing back? He was equally offensive as Facchetti and you put the italian like a left back, not a wing back. The wingback position is a modern position. In 1958, Brazil used a 4-2-4 formation with an offensive sideback like Nilton, but he wasnt a wingback. A formation with wingbacks is, for example, the one used by Scolari with Brazil in 2002, with Roberto Carlos and Cafu as a real wingbacks.
DeleteWell, the wing-back will be defined when player's style of play and skill are matched. Nilton is quite balance between defense and offense. His style is not an extreme attacking-mind so I tend to agree he is more full-back.
DeletePreviously, I reply by my approximation but when I make calculation. Roberto Carlos is found to be the most skillful player in attacking skill of side-back. The second one is Paul Breitner.
Can we have the details of the calculation ?
DeleteSure but it is an excel format that has not been complete in overall. I think I should complete it within next month.
DeleteAnd, for you, who is the most skillful wing back on the right side? José Leandro Andrade, Carlos Alberto or Cafu?
DeleteIf you count only offensive skill, Daniel Alves and Nelinho will be one of top players. But for me, as long as they are poor in defence, they should have not been deserved as the best right wing back ever. As long as defensive skill is still their main responsibility.
DeleteOk. But between those three, who is the most skillful? José Andrade, Cafu or Carlos Alberto?
DeleteI think you know how difficult to have watched Jose Leandro Andrade in own eyes but the articles describes he could get pass 4 - 5 players in a world cup match. For me. J.L Leandro Andrade > C.Albeto > Cafu
DeleteAre Alba or Alaba close to the top 100 defensive laterals ?
ReplyDeleteDo we need to wait for the world cup for alba ?
DeleteAgreed Alba may be doing a world class season
DeleteI think Alba will be appeared in top 100 at the end of this season. Before than that, he was too often injury.
DeleteWhat about Alaba ? Maybe in a few years for him.
ReplyDeleteLet see kicker rating on him at the end of season.
DeleteWhat about Boateng as centre-back ? Does he have a chance to reach top 100. Ok he has been injured last seasons but he was awesome at euro 2016 and bayern. Espcially when I see kompany in top 100. I think Boateng may deserve it.
ReplyDeleteI considered him already but he has not collected enough. Anyway he is in my short list to follow his ongoing performance.
DeleteCould Diego Godin enter top 100 centre-back ?
ReplyDeleteI will calculate his performance at the end of season. Previously he was not great enough.
DeleteWhat about Daniel Alves
ReplyDeleteMost probably his last chance to enter this top is to do a world class successful world cup for brazil but I will let Naratorn reply
DeleteHis defensive ability is too weak although he is prolifically the best right-back in the world but no great candidates against him. He is not deserved to be top 50 defender by a large margin.
DeleteEven with a world class world cup and title with brazil ?
DeleteWhat is the difference between a right-back (D.Santos) and a right-full back (Janes, Vogts) ?
ReplyDeleteI intended to right-back as a balanced side-back while full-back is a highly defensive side-back who is weak in offensively. Vogts should have been a right-back as he is also very good offensively.
DeleteOk Vogts is righ-back. Maldini should be left-back too or too weak offensively ? Are you going top update full qualifier when ti's not needer ?
DeleteSergio Ramos ranking?
ReplyDeleteBetween Figueroa and Scirea, who was more skillful? I think that they are similar in technique but Figueroa had an advantage in aerial game.
ReplyDeleteI suggest Scirea who is much better than Figueroa in vision to pass although Figueroa is clearly better in defense.
DeleteIn Uruguay to Figueroa the press called Mr. luxury (Mr. lujo) precisely for his prodigious vision of field and ball driving.
DeleteSource: http://www.emol.com/noticias/deportes/2004/01/02/133774/elias-figueroa-y-las-razones-para-ser-uno-de-los-100-mejores-de-la-historia.html
Sergio Ramos is by far the biggest omission in the ranking. He is by now one of the 20 greatest defenders in football history easily.
ReplyDeleteSergio Ramos has made a lot of mistake, got red cards , was often beaten by top players ... Today we close our eyes and forget it only because he scored headers, sometimes offisde like un UCL Finals. Ramos clearly one of the most overrated defender ever.
DeleteI just calculate S.Ramos skill and he is good enough for top 50 most skillful central defender thanks to his great offensive skill. As I also calculate his performance, it shows he will be placed around 47th here. Let me create his profile.
DeleteYou will have to get rid of grande billy to put a player without any respects for anyone. It will be hard for you.
DeleteI know Costacurta is known to be very reliable in defence but he made mistakes in intercontinental cup 2 years in row. Although Ballon'Dor is not always accurate, Costacurta is never nominated and in he was never rated above 6.2 in dbscalcio database.
DeleteCould beckenbauer or Matthaus plays as defensive holding alone in front of the defense ?
ReplyDeleteSure, Although Beckenbauer is not an uncompromising destroyer, his defensive positional skill allows him to play in this position well. Matthaus ever played as destroyer.
ReplyDeleteyou mean Matthaus never play as destroyer ?
DeleteNo I mean he played in 1986 world cup final, marking Maradona.
DeleteMarcelo is also no doubt an omission for some time now as well even tough in pure defensive skills he is inferior to all the players here. 2 assists last night in the CL final and a key player of the greatest footballing side ever.
ReplyDeleteAbout ramos I don't think 30.6 km.h-1 is so fast for a centre back. Ramos already reached higher pace in la liga just like a lot of defender.
ReplyDeleteBut how it's hard to see Ramos ahead of puyol in your ranking.
I agree it might be overstatement as there is no record for other defenders in previous eras but the stats imply he possesses high stamina.
DeleteWell, I think Puyol will be also named in the list. I really forget to evaluate his skill.
I agree it might be overstatement as there is no record for other defenders in previous eras but the stats imply he possesses high stamina.
DeleteWell, Ramos achieves higher peak in Ballon'Dor place but I really forget to evaluate Puyol skill. I think he might have been better than Vierchowod at least.
Puyol 31 now on the 9x100 list I guess not enough to be seen here :(
DeleteI don't want to say Ramos is slow on the contrary I think he is fast and the figure given doesn't really show it.
DeleteFor your information : nacho Fernandez reached 34.63, Varane often reaches 34 ...
You can also have player like Jagielka reaching 32
D.Santos was downgraded following your skill study during world cup matches ?
ReplyDeleteYes, I specify reason in positional hall of fame. In most matches, he is disappointingly.
DeleteI have also seen a few matches on youtube. On the one hand it might be disappointing but on the other hand does it means he was that much overrated by his pair ?
DeleteI mean I could not see his performances in Domestic seasons ...
Why is José Leandro Andrade in this list now?
ReplyDeleteAs I watch him in the 1924 olympic game final. His position and skill is more matched to right-wing-back in nowadays than defensive midfielder.
DeleteAnd even with the increase it seems we won't see Puyol here if we add new players to the list :(
DeleteNo chance to see Puyol here, even after the review ? :(
ReplyDeleteI've tracked many rating of Puyol in UEFA Champion League, Euro and World Cup match by match, I found he is often rated below 7 point and rarely rate at 8 point. Even in his prime, Ramos is rated better with Spain in most games. The rating is also conformed with my perspective. Puyol are several times mistakes. His status of 2010 world cup all stars team could be overrated. You can check his rating in final and semi-final, he receive only 6 - 7 points.
DeleteS.Ramos is also unreliable in defence but his offensive ability is better than Puyol and Ramos is more successful in UCL. He played well in most competitions. Puyol was not great at 2006 UCL according to the rating and he was injury in 2001 so he was world-class in only 2009.
Instead of ranking player for which I imagine we don't have nearly any materials except reputation. In this list I think about Da Guia, Nasazzi, JL Andrade ...
ReplyDeleteWouldn't it be better to mention them outside of the ranking and put players for which we have enough materials : Puyol, Vierchowod, Schulz, Olsen ...
I say this especially when I see then ew ranking of D.Santos. Luckily we have material for him and it allowed you downgrade him but for the others you may have been disapointed.
DeleteI understand your point. For Djalma Santos, I think he is mainly overrated his 3 times world cup all stars team. At least he is not deserved in 1958 and there were few world-class defender in 1954. However, Players like J.L Andrade ever dribb pass 5 swiss player in 1924 olympic game final. Nasazzi is also seen to be reliable in positional play. For forwards whose no evidence of footage, I think the record of goals can represent their performance significantly.
DeleteMoreover I want to save the greatness in every era. Although they are not proved to be better than players in modern era, I think the circumtance prevention should be considered. They are superb in their era with limitations are eligible to be legend.
DeleteI was thinking to keep them in this page explaining they would have been in the top 50 for sure but we can not be accurate enough.
DeleteEspecially when I see player just like Puyol, Scholes ... close to be in your top 50, it could be a solution to have theam.
Because this site may be a reference in terms of football legend. When some of them are so close to be there, i think it's good to make all we can to have them.
DeleteNo hopes ? :)
DeleteSorry I'm not understand. Could you clarify more ?
DeleteI mean we are close to have in your top 50s player like puyol, scholes, rooney ...
DeleteIf we put in honoroubale mentions players for which we can not be accurate enough I am pretty sure the first players mentionned may enter the top 50s.
And in my opinion it's a good thing for people to see them.
Could we have more than 50 players in The Ability Rating ?
ReplyDeleteRating defensive ability for attackers are difficult task, so I think expanding the list would also increase inaccuracy.
DeleteI asked it also in forward categories, I am really interested in seeing the abiity rating of players such as Bergkamp, Figo ... so if you could so shared it for forwards/offensive midfileder it would be amazing.
DeleteI found the rankings. Thiago Silva ability ranking may be interesting as he seems close to be in top 50.
DeleteI have one question about ability ranking, I am wondering in which period of player career do you evaluate skills. Because getting older player often loose physical ability such as explosive power ...
DeleteMoreover we miss : T.Silva, S.Campbell.
Skill is evaluated at any time of their peak in each skill aspect. For example, Messi' dribbling skill is used at 2010 while his scoring skill is used at 2012.
DeleteCould we have the ability ranking of D.Alves and Marcelo, Please.
ReplyDeleteIn my database, D.Alves is ranked at 65th while Marcelo is at 72th but I did not implement all SBs below top 50. So the ranking for them could be lowered if make a full-implementation.
DeleteIn the 9x100 list I see :
Delete37. Daniel Alves (Brazil)
66. Marcelo Vieira (Brazil)
So at least we should have d.alves :)
Having greater ability doesn't mean to be a greater player and we know it.
Especially I would like to sse how you rate offensive abilities of these players.
DeleteMarcelo named for the 2nd time as the best Left-Back of the World Cup. Mandatory addition!
ReplyDeleteSince attacking players get split 4 ways into attacking midfielders, wingers, forwards and strikers, wouldn't it be fair to separate defenders into centrebacks and fullbacks as well? I know you have a ranking of centrebacks and fullbacks on the 9x100 page but I think it would be nice to have a dedicated page for fullbacks.
ReplyDeleteThanks for putting all this work together, must have taken a lot of time for something that doesn't earn you money.
I am happier to see the similar standard of player levels between positions in 7 main category.
DeleteOk, so you are worried that for example, the 50th ranked fullback won't be of the same class as say, the 50th ranked wide midfielder.
DeleteMost of these rankings here and elsewhere seem to heavily favour attacking players. Do you think that defenders tend to be underrated? Or is it fair enough and defenders are usually genuinely worse players than attacking players?
As I make experiment to rate defender against attackers by value analysis, I don't think I underrate defender. As most defenders are limited in offensive skill, those contributed less than attackers significantly.
DeleteCostacurta, Vasovic, Ferrara are very decorated defenders, but how about comparing with Bruno Pezzey, Roberto Perfumo, Oscar Ruggeri, Willi Schulz?
ReplyDeleteNaratorn Wirunhchatapant14/08/2018, 07:23
DeleteI already rate all of them in scorecard. Pezzey and Schulz is too limited in int.club, Perfumo is disadvantageous in NT career. Ruggeri is often injury.
I think Maldini should be number 1 in the list.
ReplyDeleteWho was better in his prime: Roberto Carlos or Nílton Santos?
ReplyDeleteI'd prefer Roberto Carlos. Nilton is nothing as spectacular as R.Carlos in offensive ability. In defence, I'm not much impressive on Nilton skill as well.
DeleteNo Baresi in peak list?
ReplyDeleteThere is an incongruity between peak list and player evaluaion. Maldini has AA- in peak but he is above Figueroa (AA) and Passarella (AA).
ReplyDeleteRamos Sergio top 20. He winn every cum club and individual
ReplyDeleteSergio Ramos wonn 4 Champions Ligye 5 year .his importat player for the win all tropye. Only 48 plance? I thing top -25 .the best Defender last 6-7 year
ReplyDeleteRamos Sergio won every tropy club and individual .WorldRRamos Sergio won every tropy club and individual .World cup.2x Euro cup. 4 Champions Ligue. Only 48? Xmmmmmamos Sergio won every tropy club and individual .World cup.2x Euro cup. 4 Champions Ligue. Only 48? Xmmmmm cup.2x Euro cup. 4 Champions Ligue. Only 48? Xmmmmm
ReplyDeleteWhat about karl augenthaler ? Have you evaluated him ? Can't he be in the 9x100 list ?
ReplyDeleteDoes copa america 2019 change something for D.Alves or T.Silva ?
ReplyDeleteEspecially D.Alves elected best player of the tournament.
DeleteI could see you moved D.Alves from 37 to 32 in the 9x100 list
DeleteWhat about Oreco and Marco Antonio as left back, can't they be in the 9x100 list ?
ReplyDeleteWhat about Virgil Van Dijk? He had an amazing season as a defender, one of the best.
ReplyDeleteAt least can we evaluate his skills ?
DeleteFigueroa was 19, Pele around 28. The article says that Pelé ended up very sad and Figueroa performed a monumental performance !!! In the picture Figueroa is seen making the movement of the Chilean in the air (bicycle?).
ReplyDeletehttps://www.megafutbol.net/proxy.php?image=http%3A%2F%2F2.bp.blogspot.com%2F_VS1eJm_7vSo%2FSqq7hK0Bz1I%2FAAAAAAAABXg%2FS03bd4gP1t0%2Fs1600%2F11623.jpg&hash=9661862482bd8514910c808797b500e5
At 19, Figueroa was already the best player in the Uruguayan league, which at that time, that league was the best in the world with all the South American stars together. Figueroa was 3 times the best player in the Uruguayan league when he was only 22 years old.
Figueroa has an amazing trajectory, with incredible performances, as in the 1974 World Cup ... but you ask G. Muller where the ball was in the area XD
Someone here has a serious hard on for S.Ramos. Yes among today's defenders he is one of the best. But there are atleast 10 better Italians alone in an all time ranking. Modern defenders are nowhere near the quality of 20-30 years ago. R.Carlos? World class athlete, very good, but not great, footballer. Being fast, able to kick very hard and jump high are not footballing qualities. Maybe there should be sub sections. Beckenbauer was a fantastic player. But on defending alone he wouldn't even make the list. Best all round player to regularly play at the back certainly. So to say he's the best defender ever is kind of a misrepresentation. Turning it on its head how can Bobby Moore be ahead of people like Facchetti or Krol? Surely they are more "complete" If Beckenbauer is #1 for being an all rounder then isn't is contradictory to put an admittedly brilliant defender like Moore ahead of them? But brilliant site, and loving the info on old players. Keep up the good work
ReplyDeleteHierro should be higher, great player, also he didn't win the world cup in 82 with Spain, Italy won, and how Lucio isn't on this list i don't know
ReplyDelete