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#3 Liverpool
After injuries to Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip last season, Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp had to make do with young talents like Nathaniel Phillips and Rhys Williams at centre-back.
Given their situation last season, Liverpool did well to finish 3rd. The absence of van Dijk, in particular, was felt heavily. Before his injury, the Dutchman was regarded by many as the best centre-back in the world.
Klopp will be glad to see that the 30-year old has recovered well, with van Dijk putting in some assured performances so far in the league this season.
Liverpool have made just one major signing, bringing in French centre-back Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig for £36 million. Liverpool's defense also consists of world-class full-backs Andrew Robertson and Trent Alexander-Arnold.
#2 Manchester City
Manchester City have spent heavily on improving their defense since the arrival of Pep Guardiola as manager, signing the likes of Ruben Dias, Kyle Walker, Benjamin Mendy, Joao Cancelo and Nathan Ake for big money.
Dias was seen by many as the best player in the league last season. The Portugal international was crucial as Manchester City won the league and reached the final of the Champions League, and formed a good partnership alongside John Stones.
Guardiola does not lack options in defense. Manchester City have not shied away from spending money when required, and the club are reportedly interested in signing Sporting CP left-back Nuno Mendes as they seek to find an upgrade for that position.
#1 Chelsea
Chelsea are arguably the best defensive team in Europe, and they once again displayed their quality last night against Liverpool.
After Reece James was sent off late in the first-half, Chelsea were extremely disciplined defensively, reducing Liverpool to speculative shots from range. The centre-back trio of Andreas Christensen, Thiago Silva and Antonio Rudiger did not set a foot wrong, while goalkeeper Edouard Mendy made some good saves as well.
Thomas Tuchel has made a frighteningly strong impact at Chelsea in a short period of time. If Manchester City fail to sign a striker, Chelsea could romp to the league title fairly comfortably.
Also Read: PSG's possible line-up for tomorrow's match against Reims
