Paris Saint-Germain vs Manchester City — Combined XI | UEFA Champions League 2020/21

Defence: Kyle Walker, John Stones, Ruben Dias, Joao Cancelo

Manchester United v Manchester City - Carabao Cup Semi Final

There could be a very good case made for John Stones and Ruben Dias potentially being the best central defensive partnership in Europe this season.

Stones' career at Manchester City appeared all but over before this season but the Englishman has made an incredible comeback for his side, playing his way back into City's XI and, subsequently, Gareth Southgate's squad.

Ruben Dias' arrival at the Etihad has proven to be the catalyst behind this incredible turnaround for Manchester City's defence. They made the Portuguese star one of the most expensive players in their history to strengthen their backline, and have begun to reap the rewards for their faith in him.

7 - Manchester City are only the third team in UEFA Champions League history to keep seven consecutive clean sheets, after AC Milan (seven ending in April 2005) and Arsenal (10 ending in April 2006). Blockade. pic.twitter.com/nKOki31pcv

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 16, 2021

Dias has arguably been one of the best central defenders in the world since his move to Manchester City. His reading of the game, ability on the ball, and aerial presence have all been simply incredible. Most of all, he's the sort of leader at the back that the Cityzens have lacked since Vincent Kompany left the club.

Stones and Dias have formed one of the most formidable defensive partnerships in the world and complement each other's styles very well. City have only conceded 24 goals in 33 league games, with five of them coming in one game against Leicester City. They occupy the two central spots over Presnel Kimpembe and Danilo Pereira.

The two full-back slots are taken up by the ever-reliable Kyle Walker and Joao Cancelo, who have been vital to City's charge across all fronts.

João Cancelo: the best False-Back™ in the world right now. 😉

— Squawka Football (@Squawka) February 24, 2021

Walker has been consistent with his displays and has been Guardiola's go-to right-back for crucial games. Whether it's inverting into midfield, playing as part of a back-three, or a conventional full-back — he has operated steadily across all set-ups for the Catalan.

Cancelo's unique skill-set has added an element of unpredictability to City's approach this season. He's operated higher up the pitch almost as an additional playmaker in midfield, showcasing his excellent close control and passing range to go with his defensive side. While he's a right-back by trade, Guardiola has used him on the left on several occasions, paving the way for him to come into this XI.

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