Defence
Juanfran – RB
At right-back, we have the never tiring Juanfran. The Spanish defender is probably one of the best in the world right now and is one of the best at tracking back when it comes to modern full-backs.
Diego Simeone always knows what he wants from his defense and Juanfran is a great example of a player with the right balance attacking and defending. Barca probably lack a world class right back with Sergi Roberto currently the make-shift in that position.
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Diego Godin – CB
Diego Godin is a world class centre-back and is at the heart of that Atleti team’s fighting spirit. Without the experience and leadership of the Uruguayan, Atleti might not be among Europe’s elite.
A lot of credit has to go to Diego Simeone as well who has built the foundation of his team on Godin’s defensive capabilities.
Gerard Pique – CB
Gerard Pique gets the nod ahead of Stefan Savic because Barcelona would have conceded a lot more without him in the squad. Mascherano is still not the perfect defender, and Samuel Umtiti is still learning the ropes which makes Pique all the more important for Barcelona.
Considering Barca do not assign defensive duties to their front three, Pique makes several crucial tackles most of them last ditch when the opposition are on the counter.
Filipe Luis – LB
Jordi Alba is no doubt one of the best attacking left backs in the world but sometimes he can be a little lazy in defense. Filipe Luis is also very good going forward and is a much more secure option at the back.
This makes him the preferred choice in the combined XI ahead of the Spaniard.
