#8 Ruud Krol
One of the key components to the Dutch style of Total Football in the 1970’s, it would be criminal to not include Ruud Krol in this list. One of the most technically gifted defenders football has ever seen, Krol was always revered for his speed, something he miraculously kept up even until the end of his career.
Whenever he wasn’t defending, Krol would be seen starting attacks in the brilliant Ajax Amsterdam and Netherlands of the 1970s, co-starring alongside Johan Cruyff. His long passing and classiness at the heart of the defence were key reasons why Ajax won three consecutive European Cups and why Holland reached two successive World Cup finals.
#7 Carles Puyol
Carles Puyol was the toughness in what was a beautiful Barcelona side, led by Pep Guardiola. He was the physical barrier that sides had to try and break down if they ever got themselves close to the Barcelona goal. Puyol was the perfect partner to Gerard Pique and an able leader of the Blaugrana defence which was incredibly hard to breach.
Pique, the footballer of the two, would dictate play and would be more on the ball, whilst Puyol would remain the covering defender and was incredible at the back. Not only are his skills what sets people apart, but he is also one of the greatest captains we have seen in the 21st century.
589 games for Barcelona and Spain including a World Cup, a European Championship and three Champions Leagues, Puyol is arguably the greatest Spanish defender ever.
