The 10 best centre-backs in the world (2025)
Centre-backs are the backbone of any successful team. The very best defenders make the game look easy: positioning themselves perfectly, cutting off danger before it arises, and leading from the back. As Paolo Maldini once said, “If I have to tackle, I’ve already made a mistake.” Modern central defenders are not just stoppers—they’re also playmakers and leaders. Here are the 10 best centre-backs in the world right now.
10. Ruben Dias – Manchester City / Portugal
Manchester City’s defensive transformation under Pep Guardiola was built on the foundation of Ruben Dias. Strong, composed, and a natural leader, Dias has become vice-captain and is set to take the armband from Kevin De Bruyne.
9. Dean Huijsen – Real Madrid / Spain
At just 20 years old, Huijsen is already one of the most exciting young defenders in Europe. Standing at 6ft 5in, he combines strength with elegance on the ball, making him the complete modern centre-back.
8. Pau Cubarsí – Barcelona / Spain
A La Masia prodigy, Cubarsí plays with a maturity well beyond his 18 years. Calm under pressure, tactically sharp, and excellent in possession, he looks destined to anchor Barcelona and Spain for the next decade.
Read also: Inside Real Madrid's Payroll: Ranking Every Player by Weekly Salary (2025)
7. Marquinhos – Paris Saint-Germain / Brazil
After years of heartbreak, Marquinhos finally lifted the Champions League with PSG. A leader in every sense, his anticipation, passing, and composure make him indispensable when fit.
6. Antonio Rüdiger – Real Madrid / Germany
Unpredictable and uncompromising, Rüdiger combines aggression with elite defensive instincts. His athleticism and sheer willpower make him one of the toughest centre-backs to play against in Europe.
5. Ibrahima Konaté – Liverpool / France
Konaté has stepped out of Virgil van Dijk’s shadow to establish himself as one of the Premier League’s finest defenders. His pace and recovery ability are crucial for Liverpool’s high defensive line.
4. Gabriel Magalhães – Arsenal / Brazil
A rock at both ends of the pitch, Gabriel is not only defensively dominant but also a huge threat from set pieces. Alongside William Saliba, he forms one of the most formidable partnerships in world football.
Read also: 20 Best English Footballers in the World Right Now - Ranked
3. Alessandro Bastoni – Inter Milan / Italy
Bastoni redefines the role of a centre-back. Comfortable stepping into midfield, creating chances, and defending one-on-one, he embodies the tactical evolution of Italian defending.
2. William Saliba – Arsenal / France
Saliba plays with a calmness and confidence rare for a 24-year-old. Intelligent, composed, and physically dominant, he looks like the natural successor to Virgil van Dijk as the Premier League’s top defender.
1. Virgil van Dijk – Liverpool / Netherlands
Even at 33, Van Dijk remains the gold standard. With two Premier League titles and a Champions League medal, his leadership, aerial dominance, and positional brilliance cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats.
Read also: The 25 Best Women’s Footballers in the World, Ranked
Read also: The 10 Best Defensive Midfielders in the World (2025)
