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Right-back: Achraf Hakimi (Inter Milan)
Hakimi, signed from Real Madrid in the summer for €40 million, has already bagged a goal and two assists, the first of which came just 20 minutes into his Inter Milan debut. He's taking to the Serie A like a fish to water, perhaps.
After two glorious years at Borussia Dortmund, the marauding Moroccan has emerged as one of the most creative full-backs, while playing as a wing-back under Antonio Conte seems to have unlocked an extra level or two in his game.
Centre-back: Simon Kjaer (AC Milan)
Perhaps an unpopular pick, but Milan Skriniar's struggles in a back-three pave the way for Simon Kjaer into this line-up, with the Danish international proving to be a crucial addition to the Rossoneri since joining from Sevilla in January.
A composed center-back with a knack for positional awareness, Kjaer rarely concedes possession in the final third. His immaculate passing accuracy makes him vital to building up play from the back, while an average of over three aerial duels per game is a testament to his aerial prowess.
Centre-back: Stefan de Vrij (Inter Milan)
Whilst not the most transformative of signings, the arrival of de Vrij has at least alleviated Inter's defensive woes. Last season, he played a starring role in both domestic and European campaigns, even showing his attacking game by contributing nine goals in all competitions.
The Dutchman's interceptions are crucial in breaking opposition play and remains dangerous from set-pieces too. Accurate passing, however, is De Vrij's best characteristic, averaging a 92% success rate last season. In the 2020-21 season, De Vrij boasts a 94% pass accuracy, making him one of the best in the business in that attribute.
Left-back: Theo Hernandez (AC Milan)
Another creative full-back ignored by Real Madrid, Theo Hernandez was among the best signings of last season, scoring six goals and assisting five in Serie A to bring a new dimension to Milan's attacking vanguard.
He's already off the mark in the 2020/21 season too, with direct involvement in two goals from the opening three games. The Spaniard brings so much guile and pace down the left side, whilst also constantly linking up with the frontline.
