Performance analysis of 2019 Ballon d’Or nominees for the period Jan to Oct' 19, Part 3: Defenders

#2 Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool, England)

Trent Alexander-Arnold is a crucial part of the Liverpool setup. Attributes like an acute understanding of the game, range of passing skills, ability from set-pieces and a high work rate make Alexander-Arnold a key component of coach Jurgen Klopp's counter-attacking philosophy at the Anfield club.

The 21-year-old Englishman, who was a part of the English team which reached the 2018 World Cup semifinals, has scored one goal and provided 16 assists in 36 games for club and country during the first 10 months of the year.

#1 Matthijs de Ligt (Juventus, Netherlands)

Matthijs de Ligt's clean tackling, aerial prowess, strength and accurate passing ability have made him one of Europe's most acclaimed young defenders.

De Ligt's maturity belied his 20 years of age as he astutely led a youthful Ajax side from the qualifiers to the semifinals of the Champions League, ousting giants like Real Madrid and Juventus along the way.

Predominantly a central defender, De Ligt, with his assured interceptions, astute link-up play and versatility can be utilized in both a three-man as well as a four-man defensive formation.

The 20-year-old was snapped up by Juventus during the off-season for €75m. De Ligt is yet to score in 10 games for his new side, but has already become an integral part of coach Maurizio Sarri's possession-based style of play as the Bianconeri seek to spill their domestic dominance into the European arena.