![Kalidou Koulibaly shot to fame last season](data:image/svg+xml,<svg xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" viewBox="0 0 594 389"></svg>)
0
"You must stop either the ball or the player – you must never let both go through"
In a football world dominated by players who regularly rack up goals for their respective teams, the vital contributions of those doing the dirty work on the defensive end are easily overlooked.
Needless to say, the role of a central defender is one of the toughest. It necessitates immense focus and attention to the task at hand, as even the slightest brain fart can lead to a meaningful loss. Such is the significance of a centre-back.
However, despite this great importance, defenders do not always get the credit they rightfully deserve. Until now, only three defenders have won the FIFA Ballon d'Or - Franz Beckenbauer, Matthias Sammer, and Fabio Cannavaro.
On that note, lets take a look at the top 5 centre-backs in the world.
Also Read: 7 most valuable defenders in the world right now
#5 Diego Godín
Diego Godin is not exactly the type of player you will see making great strides under managers who tend to be too rigid in respect of their tactics. Still, he is a mainstay of Atletico Madrid and Uruguay.
The ex-Villarreal ace is on the wrong side of thirty, but age is yet to catch up to him. Known for his incredible work rate and undeniable talent, Godin possesses an aggressive, no-nonsense attitude towards dealing with things.
He is great at anticipating the opponent's moves, and is always present in the right place at the right time. Godin is also a set-piece threat, courtesy of his aerial prowess.
The 32-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United over the past few months. However, reports suggest that Godin is determined to stay at Atletico Madrid for the foreseeable future.
