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It's a common adage in the game that goals (and attacks) win matches, but defenses win titles. That holds true for both club and international football, where successful teams tend to build their campaigns around robust defenses.
Some notable recent examples in this regard are Italy (Euro 2020), Argentina (Copa America 2021), Manchester City (2020-21 Premier League), and Inter Milan (2020-21 Serie A).
Over the years, as the game has evolved, teams have shown a penchant towards defenders who are not only able to thwart opponents' attacks but also kickstart offensive moves from the back.
While there are many fine young defenders on the scene, there are a lot of experienced campaigners who are much sought-after by top clubs around the world because of what they bring to the table.
On that note, here's a look at the five best defenders aged 30 and above:
#5 Kyle Walker
Kyle Walker is one of the most experienced right-backs in the game at the moment. The 30-year-old has made close to 200 appearances in his four seasons at Manchester City, winning three Premier League titles.
Apart from his defensive prowess, Walker also hares up the right flank and lends width to his team's attack, both for club and country.
The former Tottenham Hotspur right-back was one of England's standout performers at Euro 2020, committing only one foul and getting dribbled past just once.
City manager Pep Guardiola recently singled out Kyle Walker for special praise, saying:
"The level Kyle has shown with Man City these four years has been fantastic."
Despite being linked with a return to Spurs ahead of next season, Walker is expected to remain at the Etihad.
#4 Giorgio Chiellini
Giorgio Chiellini remains one of the best defenders in the game despite being on the wrong side of 30.
Despite injuries inhibiting the 36-year-old, which has limited his game time in recent seasons, Chiellini has been a rock at the heart of the defense for both club and country.
Although he is not the quickest player on the field, Chiellini more than makes up for that with his aerial prowess at both ends, impressive tackling, and leadership qualities.
After leading Italy in their triumphant Euro 2020 campaign, Chiellini is all set to join hands with Massimiliano Allegri, under whom the defender has won close to 100 Serie A matches as Juventus seeks a return to title-winning ways.
Giorgio Chiellini recently signed a contract extension with Juventus, where he will stay put until the summer of 2023.
#3 Mats Hummels
Mats Hummels is one of the premier experienced centre-backs in the game at the moment. The 32-year-old has won big titles with both club and country, winning the FIFA World Cup for Germany in 2014 and six Bundesliga titles, among other honors.
Hummels, who recently earned a recall to the German team after two years, is a quintessential modern-day centre-back - strong in the air, keen reader of the game, and adept in tackles and clearances.
The former Bayern Munich man is also renowned for his tactical intelligence and versatility, which allows him to operate out wide as well as a defensive midfielder if required.
#2 Kalidou Koulibaly
Kalidou Koulibaly has been a standout performer for Napoli, making close to 300 appearances for the club since arriving at the southern Italian club in the summer of 2014.
The 30-year-old Senegal international is one of the most sought-after defenders in the game, thanks to his proficiency and strong presence in the defensive third.
Although his aerial prowess is not his strongest suit, Koulibaly more than makes up for that with his ability to intercept opposition crosses, tactical awareness, and ball distribution from the back.
In almost every transfer window, Koulibaly has been linked with moves to a top club. He has been linked with Everton this summer, but the 30-year-old is expected to stay put at Napoli.
#1 Virgil Van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk is arguably the best active centre-back in the game. He has almost single-handedly transformed Liverpool's fortunes since arriving at the club three years ago.
The 30-year-old Dutchman was key to the Reds winning the Champions League and Premier League in successive seasons. Possessing impressive aerial and tackling prowess, very few players can successfully dribble past the powerful Van Dijk.
After suffering a season-ending injury early last season, Liverpool endured a wretched campaign as fortress Anfield was breached by opponents with alarming regularity.
Van Dijk has also been a key player for the Netherlands but missed Euro 2020 due to injury. With the Dutchman expected to return to action soon, Liverpool will hope to be once again among the contenders for the league title.
