#4 Carlos Marchena
The former Valencia defender played a crucial part in Spain’s Euro 2008 winning squad being an undisputed starter in Luis Aragones' Spain squad. With Carles Puyol, Sergio Ramos and Joan Capdevila, he formed a rock-solid defense and conceded only two goals in five games, his hard work and man-marking skills earning him a spot in the team of the tournament.
During Euros, he was the captain of the impressive Valencia side where he spent the majority of his career. Under new coach Vicente Del Bosque, Marchena slowly lost his spot to Gerard Pique, but was still called up for the 2010 FIFA World Cup which Spain won.
He spent the later part of his career at Villarreal, Deportivo and Indian Super League side Kerala Blasters before calling time on his long and amazing career.
#5 Carles Puyol
A firm fan favorite for his fighting displays, Puyol always gave more than a 100% every time he played for Barcelona and Spain.
Regarded as one of the best defenders of his generation, Puyol was known for his commanding presence in the air, his composure on the ball and his intense commitment and ruggedness. At Euro 2008, Puyol started throughout the vast majority of the competition.
He was named in the Team of the Tournament alongside defensive partner Carlos Marchena.
A true leader and a motivator, Puyol was one of those players who worked unbelievably hard to make the most of his talents. Puyol himself modestly said:
"I don't have Romario’s technique, [Marc] Overmars' pace or [Patrick] Kluivert's strength. But I work harder than the others. I'm like the student who is not as clever, but revises for his exams and does OK in the end."
A one-club man, Puyol retired in 2014 but not before playing a crucial role in SPain's amazing 2010 World Cup triumph. Puyol is definitely one of the best Spanish defenders of all time.
