Euro 2024 is approaching, set to begin in Germany on June 14. Teams like France, England, Germany, Italy, and Portugal are widely considered favorites.
Coaches are focusing heavily on strengthening their defenses, as solid backlines are crucial for winning tournaments. Several top defenders will participate, with center-backs and full-backs playing vital roles.
This list ranks the top five best defenders of the European championships, featuring three center-backs, a left-back, and a right-back.
1. Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk has been one of the top defenders globally in recent years and might currently be the best center-back in the world.
As Liverpool’s captain, the Dutchman stands out with his commanding presence in defense. His ability to read the game is exceptional, and he is also highly skilled at passing the ball.
This season, Van Dijk has regained his peak form with Liverpool, contributing significantly to their Carabao Cup victory and maintaining a strong performance throughout the 2023-24 season.
At 32 years old, Van Dijk captains the Netherlands and has earned 67 caps for his country. Besides his defensive prowess, he is also a notable threat during set-pieces.
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2. Antonio Rudiger
Antonio Rudiger heads into Euro 2024 following an outstanding season with Real Madrid, where he secured the Supercopa de Espana, La Liga, and the UEFA Champions League.
Rudiger was a key player, starting regularly and contributing to 22 clean sheets in 48 matches for Carlo Ancelotti’s squad during the 2023-24 season. Known for his athleticism and speed, he can match any attacker.
His dynamic presence often turns the tide for his team in tough situations. With the tournament being hosted in Germany, Rudiger is anticipated to play a crucial role for Die Mannschaft.
At 31, Rudiger has already earned 69 caps for Germany. He will join fellow defenders Nico Schlotterbeck, Jonathan Tah, and others at the European Championships.
3. Ruben Dias
Ruben Dias has been a crucial player for both Manchester City and Portugal. In the 2023-24 season, he featured in 44 matches for City, helping them secure the Premier League title and contribute to 15 clean sheets.
As a solid defensive presence, Dias enables his team to play more freely in attack. At 27, he is in his peak years.
Portugal boasts attacking stars such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Bruno Fernandes, and Bernardo Silva. Dias leads a formidable center-back lineup alongside Goncalo Inacio, Antonio Silva, and Pepe.
Dias is expected to anchor Portugal’s defense at Euro 2024. With 56 national team appearances so far, a strong performance from him could significantly boost Roberto Martinez’s squad’s chances in the tournament.
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4. Dani Carvajal
The role of a full-back in modern football is changing, but Dani Carvajal has consistently adapted and excelled. For the past decade, he has been one of the top players in his position.
Carvajal recently won his sixth Champions League with Real Madrid, scoring in the final against Borussia Dortmund. At 32, he had his best season yet, netting six goals and providing five assists in 41 matches.
With 44 appearances for Spain, Carvajal is a seasoned veteran. He’s known for delivering precise crosses and crucial passes. His ability to score important goals makes him a key player for Luis de la Fuente’s team, which aims to perform strongly in Euro 2024 after their Nations League 2023 victory.
5. Theo Hernandez
France faced a major setback with Lucas Hernandez’s ACL injury ruling him out of Euro 2024. Didier Deschamps can take solace in the fact that Lucas’ brother, Theo, is ready to fill the gap, just as he did during the 2022 FIFA World Cup
Theo arrives at the tournament after a strong 2023-24 season with AC Milan, where he played 46 matches, scored five goals, and provided 11 assists. Theo, known for his solid defensive and attacking contributions on the left side, will start as the left-back for Les Bleus, pushing Ferland Mendy to the bench.
With 27 international appearances, two goals, and eight assists, Theo’s performance will be crucial for France, one of the favorites to win Euro 2024. Didier Deschamps’ team will rely on his form as a key factor in the tournament.
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