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#7 Stuart Dallas | Leeds United
It might be strange to see a defender from a team that conceded a staggering 52 goals in 38 games this season on this list. However, Stuart Dallas is no ordinary defender. Marcelo Bielsa's on-field general and Leeds' Player of the Year is one of the most intriguing players in the Premier League, to say the very least.
Although he's a full-back by trade, Dallas has played nearly all across the pitch for Leeds. Be it in right midfield or left-back, in central midfield or in central defence, he has filled in everywhere for the legendary Argentine coach. It doesn't matter where he plays for Bielsa's side because, in truth, he's been excellent irrespective of his position on the pitch.
His contribution to an exciting Leeds side has been phenomenal. While he may not steal the show like other players on this list, he's definitely had a brilliant debut campaign in the Premier League. Dallas is Leeds second-highest scorer with eight league goals and has two assists to his name.
#6 Joao Cancelo | Manchester City
Playing on both the left and right side of defence, Joao Cancelo has had a phenomenal campaign for Manchester City. The Portuguese has played a huge role for Pep Guardiola's side this season and has played as an inverted full-back, tucking into midfield.
Cancelo has effectively served as an auxiliary playmaker, adding an extra body in midfield. This role has helped magnify Cancelo's unique skill set, highlighting his close control, passing range and positional awareness. It has also greatly benefitted Guardiola's men, helping them gain more control of proceedings in the middle of the park.
No defender has played more through balls than Cancelo's ten this season, and only Alexander-Arnold played more passes into the penalty area (69). After an underwhelming debut campaign, Cancelo has come of age at the Etihad Stadium.
#5 Wesley Fofana | Leicester City
Wesley Fofana was absolutely immense for a player who played in his first campaign in the Premier League. The French star barely put a foot wrong for the Foxes at the back and has been a colossal figure for Brendan Rodgers' side. He's formed a great partnership with the likes of Jonny Evans and Caglar Soyuncu to help solidify Leicester's backline.
Capable of playing as the central (or right-sided) player in a back three or in a four-man defence, the 20-year-old has shown an excellent understanding of the game at such a young age. He's timed his bursts out of defence excellently and has been quick to recover in transitions.
Leicester's scouting unit have unearthed some incredible players in the past. While Fofana might already be a relatively established name, they have reaped the rewards of placing their faith in him. Definitely a player to keep an eye on in the next season.
#4 Harry Maguire | Manchester United
Manchester United skipper Harry Maguire had a turbulent start to the campaign due to a massive off-field controversy. The situation was made worse by the Red Devils' troubles on the pitch as they conceded a staggering 11 goals in their first three games of the Premier League campaign.
However, Maguire and his side turned their fortunes around as they went on to lose just twice after their 6-1 loss to Tottenham Hotspur in October up until May. The captain finding a great vein of form coincided with their newfound defensive solidity, and his partnership with Luke Shaw on the left has been particularly impressive.
Only two players have registered more progressive carrying distance than Maguire's 6498 yards, while winning the second-highest percentage of his aerial duels (77.6). He's been a rock at the back for Manchester United.
Also read: 10 Best midfielders in the Premier League this season (2020-21)
