RB – Dani Alves
Very few, if any, can match the Brazilian’s athleticism down the right-hand flank. The 32-year-old has arguably championed his position, often dubbed as one of the finest full-back’s the game has ever seen.
Look past his comical appearances off the pitch and Alves is an intimidating force that can tie down agile wide men, meanwhile tormenting his opposing number with marauding runs and a fiery right boot. The defender saw the rise and end of the Guardiola empire and was one of the most consistent performers during the spell.
CB – Carlos Puyol
A gladiator that lead from the back, Carlos Puyol saw trophies come like running water at the close of his career at both domestic and international levels. Lion-hearted and curly-haired, the Spaniard won three Champions League titles with Barcelona, as well as a remarkable six La Liga triumphs.
When the rest of the team underwent defensive stagnation, they could always rely on Puyol’s relentless determination and aggression to see them home. Perhaps not the most technically acute, but the now 37-year-old was always courageous and very few showed greater love for the club.
CB – Ronald Koeman
Cast an eye over modern-day Southampton and it’s easy to see the methodical composure Koeman employed in his time at the heart of Barcelona’s defence imprinted into the South-Coast club.
‘Tintin’ made up for any frailties at the back with an exquisite record of 67 league goals in 192 appearances. His most iconic goal, however, was the 112th-minute winner in the 1992 European Cup final. He was just as clinical from the penalty spot and he was an ever-reliable presence at the heart of a successful Barca side.
LB – Joan Segarra
Joan Segarra was a born and dedicated leader. Like the aforementioned Ramallets, Segarra formed the basis of the team that lifted five trophies in the 1951/52 season. Having played one game shy of 300 appearances, the full-back was quick and vocal on the pitch and had an eye for goal too.
While his playing style was an example to modern defenders, his nobility and sportsmanship were also well renowned.
