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The evolution of football has seen a lot of things change in the sport, but the demands from defenders is arguably the biggest change that has occurred.
Top-quality defenders are now excellent on the ball as well as defensively solid. Managers expect their full-backs to contribute in the attack, while centre-backs are expected to kickstart attacks, for which they need to have ability on the ball.
World-class full-backs are now quality attackers, while some centre-backs won't look out of place in midfield too. On that note, here's a look at five defenders who could be great midfielders.
#5 Leonardo Bonucci (Juventus)
Leonardo Bonucci is one of the best centre-backs in the world, making his name as a world-class ball-playing centre-back.
The 34-year-old is a wily operator, and has formed a formidable defensive partnership with Giorgio Chiellini for both club and country. Bonucci is now in his second spell with Juventus, excelling on both occasions. The former Bari man has won eight Serie A titles with Juventus, and has helped them reach the final of the Champions League twice.
Bonucci was one of Italy's stellar performers in the Azzurri's Euro 2020 triumph. The centre-back is renowned for his comfort on the ball and defensive prowess.
#4 Joao Cancelo (Manchester City)
Joao Cancelo often operated as an auxiliary midfielder last season as Manchester City romped to the Premier League title.
The Portugal international was technically a full-back, but would often tuck into midfield, where he impressed with his passing and technical ability. Cancelo did not come cheap, costing Manchester City £58.5 million in 2019, but he has proved to be worth the price.
Cancelo can play in both full-back positions, and was one of Manchester City's most impressive players last season. The 27-year-old missed the Euros this summer after testing positive for COVID-19, so one can only wonder if Portugal could have done better with Cancelo in the side.
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#3 David Alaba (Real Madrid)
One of the most versatile players in the world, David Alaba is seen by many as one of the greatest defenders of his generation.
Alaba made his debut for Bayern Munich in 2010, and became one of the club's most iconic players during his time with the club. Capable of playing as a centre-back, left-back, midfielder and winger, the Austria international is an extremely consistent player who rarely makes a mistake.
The 29-year-old joined Real Madrid this summer after his contract with Bayern Munich expired. Real Madrid have let go of both Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane, so Alaba is expected to take over the mantle of the team's defensive leader this campaign.
#2 Marquinhos (Paris Saint-Germain)
Marquinhos is one of the best centre-backs in the world, and the captain of Paris Saint-Germain.
He has been at Paris Saint-Germain for quite some time now, having joined the club in 2013 after arriving from AS Roma. The Brazil international often played alongside Thiago Silva at Paris Saint-Germain, and continues to do so for the national team. It is evident that playing with one of the best centre-backs of the modern generation has helped Marquinhos' development immensely.
The 27-year-old has been used as a defensive midfielder in recent seasons to great success. Given Paris Saint-Germain's plethora of midfield options, it is unlikely Marquinhos will be utilised in midfield this season, but he is certainly a good option to have.
#1 Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool)
Regarded by many as the best right-back in the world at the moment, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been a sensational player for Liverpool.
A product of the Liverpool academy, Alexander-Arnold has been one of Jurgen Klopp's most important players. The England international is renowned for his creativity, technical ability and passing prowess, and critics have often observed that he can be utilised in midfield if needed.
Alexander-Arnold's ability on the ball is world-class. So it won't be surprising to see the 22-year-old become a midfielder down the line. The right-back is a superstar of the game.
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