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Right-back: Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid)
Real Madrid's results have considerably improved this season, and so have the performances of several key players of the squad - particularly Dani Carvajal. The Spaniard has put aside the disappointments of last year's disastrous campaign by hitting his stride again.
He's once again bombing up and down the right flank with fabulous verve and vision, linking up effectively with the forward line and creating more chances than ever. Carvajal's tally of four assists is also the highest for a defender, behind only Victor Diaz of Granada.
Centre-back: Raphael Varane (Real Madrid)
The Frenchman has always found himself on the cusp of breaking into the elite group world's best defenders, and it looks like he's finally making the leap this season. Raphael Varane compliments Sergio Ramos' gung-ho approach with a rather composed and assured style, while his aerial strength is second to none - he averages 3.1 aerial duel wins each game, and has also weighed in with three goals.
Centre-back: Inigo Martinez (Athletic Bilbao)
Inigo Martinez's hard-working and no-nonsense approach perfectly encapsulates the club's principles. The former Real Sociedad defender has been on the block for several years now, but has been making a real statement this season.
He has a great sense of positional awareness, while his ability to sniff out danger is envious - he averages 4.2 clearances per game! Martinez has also partnered with Yerey Alvarez incredibly well, leaving no holes at the back to plug.
He has had a key role to play in Bilbao's nine clean sheets so far this season.
Left-back: Sergio Reguilon (Sevilla)
Real Madrid's train-wreck of 2018-19 season had very few bright spots besides Karim Benzema, and one of them was Sergio Reguilon.
The 22-year old burst onto the scene midway through the campaign and impressed enough to keep Marcelo on the bench. This term, he's on loan at Sevilla and pulling up trees.
Reguilon is already a trusted member in Julen Lopetegui's side, having started all but two games. He offers so much pace and directness down the right flank that he's already touted to be the heir apparent to the Brazilian.
