The Premier League is home to some of the best centre-backs in world football, with many players demonstrating exceptional skill and leadership in defence. From established stars to rising talents, these defenders have become indispensable to their teams, playing key roles in both domestic and international competitions. Whether it’s the commanding presence of Virgil van Dijk, the intelligent play of John Stones or the impressive performances of younger defenders such as Sven Botman and Josko Gvardiol, the league continues to produce some of the best centre-backs in the game today. This article from Win Betting Tips will highlight the standout performances of the best center backs in the Premier league, each of whom has had a significant impact on the success of their teams.
Who is the best center back in the Premier league?
10. Sven Botman (Newcastle)
Despite only playing one season for Newcastle, Sven Botman has quickly become a mainstay in the Magpies' defence and played a crucial role in the team's success last season. Manager Eddie Howe once affirmed that Botman's solidity and stability helped improve Newcastle's defence, directly contributing to the team's qualification for the Champions League for the first time in 2 decades.
With impressive performances, Botman has proven that he is a promising centre-back, and this is a solid stepping stone for him to continue to improve himself in the coming seasons. At only 23 years old, Botman has a lot of potential to develop and become one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League. Therefore, Newcastle was determined to spend 35 million pounds to bring him to St. James' Park after two successful seasons at Lille. It was a wise decision, and Botman will continue to be key to Newcastle competing in major tournaments.
9. Raphael Varane (MU)
In his third season with Manchester United, 30-year-old centre-back Raphael Varane will have more playing opportunities, as he has decided to retire from international football with France to focus entirely on his club. This decision gives Varane more time to recover and maintain good fitness, avoid being overloaded and can devote himself to the Red Devils.
The good relationship between Varane and Lisandro Martinez has proven its worth in the 2022/23 season, when the duo became an irreplaceable combination in Manchester United's defense. Coach Erik ten Hag and the team's fans are both expecting the duo to continue to develop, bringing solidity and stability to the defense. By focusing all his energy on MU, fans expect to see Varane again as a "defense boss", just like what he showed in the French national team or Real Madrid in the past, when he was always a reliable and capable center-back.
8. Lisandro Martinez (MU)
Although many people were concerned about Lisandro Martinez's modest height when he signed for Manchester United (only 1.75m tall), he proved himself to be one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League last season. Although he does not possess the ideal height for a centre-back, Martinez has made up for this with his intelligent playing ability and excellent defensive skills. He has developed a sharp playing mind, knows how to read the game, recognize the opponent's movements and make the right decisions in each situation.
Martinez's ability to read the game allows him to dominate in one-on-one duels, even against tall strikers. In addition to his defensive skills, his warrior style is also an important factor that helps him stand out. His passion, fearlessness in collision and determination in every situation has helped Martinez affirm himself as one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League, highly appreciated by both teammates and opponents.
7. Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool)
Ibrahima Konate is considered the future of Liverpool's defence, with the potential to become one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League. Although he can be a bit hasty and hasty at times, Konate has all the qualities needed to become the next Virgil van Dijk at Anfield. He is not only strong in one-on-one duels but also excellent in aerial situations, always dominating high balls. In addition, Konate's speed and ability to intercept make him a complete defender. Furthermore, he also possesses the ability to pass the ball very accurately, creating dangerous opportunities for the team.
France coach Didier Deschamps commented on Konate: "He plays very intelligently, has excellent vision and tactical thinking. Ibrahima is only 24 years old and will surely develop even more strongly next season.” With these qualities, Konate will continue to be a pillar in the future of Liverpool.
6. Gabriel (Arsenal)
Gabriel Magalhães, although not as highly regarded as other centre-backs at Arsenal, had an impressive 2022/23 season, showing his excellence not only in defence but also in attack. The left-footed Brazilian centre-back has had impressive performances, contributing significantly to the solidity of Arsenal's defence. Manager Mikel Arteta believes that last season was a stepping stone for Gabriel to continue to assert his position and become one of the top centre-backs in the Premier League in the 2023/24 season.
Last season, Gabriel was an indispensable pillar of the team, appearing in all 38 Premier League matches. He not only defended his goal brilliantly but also contributed to the attack with 3 goals, demonstrating his aerial ability and timely presence in set-piece situations. With his obvious maturity, Gabriel is expected to continue to develop and play an important role in helping Arsenal continue their title race in the Premier League this season.
5. Ruben Dias (Man City)
Ruben Dias, a Portuguese centre-back, is not only a giant in stature but also in influence on the pitch. Standing at 1.86m tall, he possesses outstanding physical strength and formidable aerial ability. Although he sometimes lacks the sharp passing of some of his teammates, Dias always makes up for it with excellent defensive skills and excellent reading of the game. He always appears at the right time to prevent dangerous situations, keeping Manchester City's defence solid.
In his first season playing in the Premier League 2020/21, Dias quickly took over the official centre-back position and was named Player of the Season, an impressive achievement for a new signing. His consistency and class helped Man City maintain their defensive solidity, and the following season, Dias became an indispensable pillar in Pep Guardiola's squad, contributing to Man City's legendary treble, including Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League.
4. William Saliba (Arsenal)
William Saliba, who was dubbed the "Kylian Mbappé of centre-backs" during his time in France, has proven his outstanding talent, especially in the 2021/22 season when he was on loan at Marseille from Arsenal. After returning to Arsenal, Saliba has become an indispensable part of coach Mikel Arteta's defensive system and played an important role in helping the team win the runner-up position in the Premier League last season. His maturity and impressive form have brought solidity to Arsenal's defense.
Recently, in the Community Shield match against Manchester City, Saliba once again affirmed his class. He played excellently, showing composure and perfect control of the situation, especially in marking Erling Haaland - one of the most dangerous strikers in the world today. Saliba's confident demeanor and excellent defensive ability explain why he has become one of the most sought-after centre-backs in the current transfer market.
3. Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool)
Despite a disappointing 2022/23 season for Liverpool, in which the team's form fell short of expectations, Virgil van Dijk has proven himself to be an excellent centre-back. Despite the challenges, Van Dijk has maintained stability, class and leadership in defence, helping Liverpool overcome difficult times. He continues to be a mainstay in Jurgen Klopp's squad and plays an important role in the team's defensive strategy.
Entering the 2023/24 season, Van Dijk's presence is indispensable for Liverpool. His experience, composure and ability to read the game are important factors in helping The Kop strengthen their defence and regain their top form. In particular, in the context of this team aiming to return to the race for the Top 4 Premier League, Van Dijk will be the key to helping Liverpool maintain stability and compete fiercely with opponents in the decisive stage.
2. John Stones (Manc City)
When John Stones joined Manchester City from Everton in 2016 for £50 million, he was ridiculed as a bad signing. However, after a few seasons, Stones has proven himself to be worth that price and overcome all doubts. He has developed into one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League, with his intelligent play, excellent passing ability and solid defense. In particular, in the 2022-2023 season, Stones played a key role in Manchester City's historic treble, helping the team win the Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League.
With the ability to play flexibly in many positions, from centre-back, right-back to midfielder, Stones is not only a complete defender but also a player with great influence in Man City's style of play. His maturity will certainly continue to help Manchester City maintain their level in the new Premier League season.
1. Josko Gvardiol (Man City)
Josko Gvardiol, the world's second most expensive centre-back at £78m, has proven his class at the 2022 World Cup as well as in two seasons playing in the Bundesliga. At Leipzig, he is considered one of the most promising defenders, with his sharp reading of the game, stamina and skillful ball handling techniques. Gvardiol's appearance at Man City is expected to bring solidity and flexibility to the team's defense.
With a large investment from Man City, Gvardiol is not only considered a promising young talent, but also an important factor in Pep Guardiola's long-term strategy. He will have to quickly adapt to the new environment and new teammates, thereby showing his worth for the money that the Etihad Stadium team has spent. Next season, Gvardiol has the opportunity to shine and contribute to Man City's goal of defending the Premier League title.
Conclusion
The best centre-backs in the Premier League not only provide solidity at the back, but also play a vital role in the team’s tactics. From the leadership of Virgil van Dijk, the development of young talents like Josko Gvardiol and Sven Botman, to the perfect combination of stars like Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez, each player has their own unique qualities. These centre-backs not only provide solidity in defence, but also contribute to the attack and orchestrate play. The Premier League will surely continue to see impressive performances from these centre-backs, helping to raise the quality and drama of the tournament.
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