Explore the top 5 centre-backs of 2024, showcasing defensive mastery, leadership, and consistency. These players have become pillars for their teams, excelling in key moments and proving their worth as the best in the game. Their ability to read the game, win duels, and command the backline sets them apart as football’s finest defenders this year.
1. Virgil van Dijk
The Dutchman has solidified his reputation as one of the world’s top and most reliable centre-backs, despite Liverpool’s lack of silverware this year. Wearing the captain’s armband for both club and country, Van Dijk excels in leadership, guiding his teams with authority. Elite forwards often name him as their toughest opponent, and it’s easy to see why. With his towering presence and formidable pace, he is a truly intimidating figure. After a challenging period following a long injury layoff, Van Dijk has made a spectacular return to his best form for both club and country in 2024.
4. Jonathan Tah
Under the guidance of Xabi Alonso, Jonathan Tah has evolved into one of the world’s premier defenders. His exceptional quality has attracted top clubs like Bayern Munich and FC Barcelona, highlighting his remarkable ability. Bayer Leverkusen enjoyed a historic 2024, securing both the DFB-Pokal and Bundesliga titles, ending Bayern’s long-standing dominance.
Tah was a key figure in Leverkusen’s triumphs, playing a central role in their success. He also represented Germany in the 2024 Euros, further showcasing his class and defensive prowess on the international stage.
3. William Saliba
William Saliba spent his first three years at Arsenal out on loan, but has since emerged as one of the most crucial players in Mikel Arteta’s squad. In his first full season with the Gunners, Saliba played a pivotal role in their push for the Premier League title, with Arsenal challenging Manchester City for the top spot. However, their title hopes faltered when Saliba suffered an injury.
Saliba’s meteoric rise to prominence in English football has been nothing short of surprising, and he is now considered one of Arsenal’s most valuable assets. His exceptional form also translated to the international stage during the 2024 Euros, where France conceded just three goals throughout the tournament. Saliba’s presence at the back was a key factor in that defensive solidity, earning him well-deserved recognition for his contributions.
2. Ruben Dias
Since joining Manchester City in 2020, Ruben Dias has proven to be an incredibly reliable centre-back under Pep Guardiola. He was named the club’s Player of the Year in his debut season and has only grown in stature since. After playing a pivotal role in securing the treble during the 2022-23 season, Dias continued to be crucial in Manchester City’s defence, helping them retain their Premier League title in 2023-24.
A defender with all the essential qualities—organisation, tackling, heading, and positioning—Dias is also a key figure in Portugal’s backline. His standout performances in the 2024 Euros played a significant role in Portugal’s solid defensive record throughout the tournament.
1. Antonio Rüdiger
Real Madrid faced a significant defensive crisis last season with the loss of Thibaut Courtois, Eder Militão, and David Alaba to ACL injuries. Despite these key setbacks, the team went on to win La Liga, conceding the fewest goals in the entire league. Antonio Rüdiger played a pivotal role in this achievement, stepping up when needed and delivering consistent performances throughout the season. In 2024, he also won his first UEFA Champions League title with Los Blancos. Although Germany’s controversial elimination from the European Championship at the hands of Spain was a blow, Rüdiger’s standout contributions with both his club and country earned him the title of the best defender in 2024.