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This is the first thread in the series “The Greatest Footballer of All-Time In Each Position” I’ll start with Defender include Full-Back, Wing-Back, Center-Back and Libero.

Regarding of side backs, there are very few this kind of defender in period before World War II because most formation would be 2-3-5 which had defender just two players in central area of backline. This is the most important reason there are rather a few great side backs in football history if compare with other position. Plus, Definition includes both full-back in 4-4-2 system and wing-back in 5-3-2 system.
      
Regarding of center-back include both sweeper and stopper or marker and even attacking libero which was originated by Alexandru Apolzan not Beckenbuaer as most people understand. The fact of matter, attacking libero must be very good in both defensive and offensive skills so they would be advantage to be considered in higher place. Regarding center-backs before world-war II, There is no sweeping system but there are two center-backs responsible for overall backline. Defender was just developed skills which reach to saturated point in recent decade especially influence of defensive style of playing and development of sport science help them to have more physical factor than past defender.

I would show full details in top 50 and then devided in to many classes.

About Class

Crown : The best defenders of all-time
King    : The closest defender to be the best ever
Queen : The best defenders in thier era
Prince : The consistency International-Class defenders or a few years of World-Class

*Each class would be devided into 3 level are Gold, Silver and Bronze

This thread would be limited in class Prince Silver only.

Criteria cover these items

1.   Level of Abilities
2.   Consistency, Longevity
3.   The Greatness, Awards
4.   Standard Competition In Thier Era

---

50. Marius Tresor



Date Of Birth : 15 January 1950
Nation : France
Height : 182 cm
Major Club : Olympique Marseile
Caps : 65 Games
World Cup Participation : 1978, 1982 (10 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time French Champion
1 Time French Cup
International Honours : None
Individual Achievement : 1972 French Footballer Of The Year

Marius Tresor was a stopper and sweeper extraordinaire for France and his club team. Originally from Guadeloupe in the West Indies, He had excellent physical options, marking ability and overall technique, and was also a threat on goal. Tresor had a brilliant goal in the 1982 France versus West Germany World Cup semi-final, Spectacularly volleying a pass in overtime but France lost in penalty takeout and finishes fourth place in that tournament. Although Tresor was not a successful player, He was regarded as the first-rate defender in history of French football. He was named by Pele as one of the top 125 greatest living footballers.


49. Hector Chumpitaz




Date Of Birth : 12 April 1943
Nation : Peru
Height : 178 cm
Major Club : Universitario
Caps : 105 Games
World Cup Participation : 1970, 1978 (10 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Peruvian League
1972 Copa Libertadores Cup Runner-Up
International Honours : 1975 Copa America Winners
Individual Achievement : 1969 Best Defender CONMEBOL
All-Time Copa America All-Star Team
CONMEBOL All-Star Team In The Last 50 Years

“The America’s Captain” Hector Chumpitaz is one of Peru’s most recognized footballer player, was known for his great technique, his leadership, his organization ability on the field, A strong reader of the game with excellent ball skills and distribution. He marshaled a capable defense to support Peru’s attack led by Teofilo Cubillas. Chumpitaz was selected captain of the American continent's team in 1973. He was an impressive defender-scoring with 74 goals in 530 career matches. Chumpitaz is considered one of the greatest south American defenders of all-time and was named to the list of best World Cup players of all time by Terra.com in 2006. He was elected the 35th best South american footballer of the 20th century in a poll by the IFFHS in 2000.


48.Manuel Amoros



Date Of Birth : 1 February 1962
Nation : France
Height : 172 cm
Major Club : Olympique Marseile
Caps : 82 Games
World Cup Participation : 1982, 1986 (12 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times French Champions
1 Time French Cup
1991 European Cup Runner-Up
1993 European Cup Winners
International Honours : 1986 FIFA World Cup Third Place
1984 European Championship Winners
Individual Achievement : 1986 French Player Of The Year
1986 Silver Ball Onze d’Or
1986 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team

Manuel Amoros was a versatile full-back which he was able to play both left and right-side without a significant different due to his great in both feet. He was an extraordinary wing-back in the world during 1980s with his fast, excellent movement, intelligent and skillful. Amoros played his first World Cup as a starter in 1982 in spite of his age 20 year olds only. He often went forward to play like winger and his elegant style led him as a popular defender especially his performance in match against Brazil in World Cup 1986 which was regarded as the most beautifully classic game in history of World Cup and he was voted as the best right-back of tournament by international-press.Amoros was one of the most successful French players during his time, won the top trophies both club and international competitions. He was finished 4th European footballer of the year in 1986.

47.Oscar Ruggeri



Date Of Birth : 26 January 1962
Nation : Argentina
Height : 185 cm
Major Club :  Boca Juniors
Caps :  97 Games
World Cup Participation :  1990, 1994 (9 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times Argentina Champions
1 Time Spanish La liga
1986 Copa Libertadores Cup
1986 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1986 FIFA World Cup Champion
1990 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
2 Times Copa America Winners (1991, 1993)
1992 FIFA Confederation Cup
Individual Achievement :  1989 Spanish La Liga Best Foreigner Player
1991 Argentina League Footballer Of The Year
1991 South American Footballer Of The Year

“The Big Headed One” is one of the most successful defenders ever to come out of Argentina. Oscar Ruggeri was a center-back committed to marshalling a tight defense, skillful at marking and positioning and excellent in the air. He was an indispensable player to captain Argentina to reach two consecutive World Cup final round. Ruggeri holds the all-time record most appearances in Copa America with 21 matches. He is one of few players in history of the game to win four league titles with four different teams. He was one of the three defenders in history to win South American footballer of the year award.

46. John Terry



Date Of Birth : 7 December 1980
Nation : England
Height : 187 cm
Major Club :  Chelsea
Caps :  58 Games
World Cup Participation :  2006 (5 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Premier League
3 Times FA Cup
2 Times League Cup
2008 UEFA Champion League Runner-Up
International Honours : None
Individual Achievement :  2005 PFA Player Of The Year
2006 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
3 Times UEFA Champion League Best Defender (2005, 2007, 2009)
3 Times UEFA Team Of The Year (2005, 2007, 2008)
2 Times Chelsea Player Of The Year (2001, 2006)
4 Times FIFPro World XI (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008)

“Captain JT” John Terry already proved himself as a number one defender in the world in lately 2000s. He was an idol player of Chelsea and being supposed to be Chelsea’s greatest player ever soon. Terry is always reliable to clear the ball in his area and also full of bravery, leadership and concentration on his game. It has rarely been a mistake of his. Terry has played in English Premier League in the era it is the best of the world and strongly standing as a true leader for his club although he was widely remembered as a man who mistook the most important penalty shootout and leading Chelsea missed their first UEFA Champion League which they have been waiting for this trophy for seasons. Terry would be England’s second best defender of all-time only to Bobby Moore in the near future.


45. Jose Antonio Camacho



Date Of Birth : 8 June 1955
Nation : Spain
Height : 174 cm
Major Club :  Real Madrid
Caps :  81 Games
World Cup Participation :  1982, 1986 (10 Games)
Club Honours : 9 Times Spanish La liga
5 Times Spanish Cup
1 Time Spanish League Cup
2 Times UEFA Cup (1985, 1986)
International Honours : 1984 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  None

Jose Antonio Camacho is a legendary footballer of Real Madrid who is considered as the greatest full-back in history of Spanish football. Camacho played as left-back, was noted for his top-level strength, stamina and aggressive style of play. He was not a technical specialist but possessed leadership, bravery, winning mentality and consistency. In spite of a knee injury which put his career on hold for two years, He still played for Spain national team in four big tournaments and played for Real Madrid 577 matches in overall competitions. Camacho was a captain for his club and nation for years.


44. Billy Wright



Date Of Birth : 6 February 1924
Nation : England
Height : 180 cm
Major Club :  Wolvehampton Wanderers
Caps :  105 Games
World Cup Participation :  1950, 1954, 1958 (10 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times English Top Division
1 Time FA Cup
International Honours : None
Individual Achievement :  1952 FWA Footballer Of The Year
1959 Order Of The British Empire
English Football Hall Of Fame

Billy Wright is one of the great legends in history of British football. He was the first football player in the world to earn 100 caps. Wright was a central defender and a captain of England national team through decade of 1950s. He was the most popular player for English’s football fan during his era with his profession and reliability of football playing. He made 541 appearances to wolvehampton and regarded as club’s greatest player ever, Specialty, A statue of him was erected beside Wolves' Molineux Stadium in memory of him in 1996, three years after the completion of a stand at the stadium named in honour of him. He is rated by many as the second greatest defender of England only to Bobby Moore. In 1968, He was selected as a starter FIFA World XI against Brazil.


43. Bixente Lizarazu



Date Of Birth : 9 December 1969
Nation : France
Height : 169 cm
Major Club :  Bayern Munich
Caps :  97 Games
World Cup Participation :  1998, 2002 (10 Games)
Club Honours : 6 Times Bundesliga Champions
5 Times German Cup
4 Times German League Cup
2001 UEFA Champion League
1999 UEFA Champion League Runner-Up
International Honours : 1998 FIFA World Cup Champion
2000 European Championship Winners
2 Times FIFA Confederation Cup (2001, 2003)
Individual Achievement :  1998 Legion de Honour

“Liza” Bixente Lizarazu was widely regarded as the top left-back of the world in lately 90s and one of the great backs four of the 1998 FIFA World Cup champion France which was rated as the strongest back line as national team. He was an equivalent defender between defensive and offensive options, was extraordinary in agility, acceleration, stamina and basic skillful. Lizarazu was a Basque descent, has a stadium named after him in the French Basque country, the "Stade Bixente-Lizarazu" .During his second spell with Bayern Munich in 2005 and 2006, Lizarazu wore the shirt number 69. Clarifying that it wasn't a lewd gesture, he said this was because he was born in 1969, his height is 1.69m and he weighed 69 kg. Lizarazu has always been compared with Manuel Amoros whom he was similar in style of play, figure and level of ability.


42. Willi Schulz



Date Of Birth : 4 October 1938
Nation : West Germany
Height : 181 cm
Major Club :  Schalke 04, Hamburger SV
Caps :  66 Games
World Cup Participation :  1962, 1966, 1970 (13 Games)
Club Honours : 9 Times Spanish La liga
5 Times Spanish Cup
1 Time Spanish League Cup
2 Times UEFA Cup (1985, 1986)
International Honours : 1966 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
1970 FIFA World Cup Third Place
Individual Achievement :  None

Willi Schulz was the most outstanding West German central defender during 1960s. He basically played as a sweeper, was rated from kicker magazine in world-class 3 seasons and 6 seasons of international-class. He was not rather a famous defender as he should have been gotten that may be because of his smooth style of play. Schulz was one of a few world-class defenders in the world in his era. By the time lately 1960s, Franz Beckenbauer still played as defensive midfielder so Schulz could be the first-choice center-back without any hesitation. Totally, Schulz is one of the most underrated German defender of all-time.


41. Alessandro Costacurta



Date Of Birth : 24 April 1966
Nation : Italy
Height : 183 cm
Major Club :  AC Milan
Caps :  59 Games
World Cup Participation :  1994, 1998 (11 Games)
Club Honours : 7 Times Italian Series A
1 Time Copa Italia
5 Times UEFA Champion League (1989, 1990, 1994, 2003, 2007)
3 Times UEFA Champion League Runner-Up (1993, 1995, 2005)
International Honours : 1994 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  None

“Billy” Costacurta was one of the notably unbeatable backs four in AC Milan in their glory year which was regarded as the greatest defensive line the world has ever seen, Holds the all-time record not concede any goal more than 900 minutes. He played as a stopper in front of Franco Baresi and becoming one of the best buddy center-back of all-time, his tactical ability was usable in any situation. He became the oldest footballer ever to play in the Champions League at 40 years and 211 days. Costacurta made 690 appearances for AC Milan and was chosen as a starter from journalists in www.channel4.com in All-Time AC Milan XI. Costacurta is also rated as one of the best man’s markers of the world during 1990s only to Jurgen Kohler.

40.  Javier Zanetti



Date Of Birth :  10 August 1973
Nation : Argentina
Height : 178 cm
Major Club :  Inter Milan
Caps :  136 Games
World Cup Participation :  1998, 2002 (8 Games)
Club Honours : 4 Times Italian Series A
2 Times Copa Italia
1998 UEFA Cup
International Honours : 2 Times Copa America Runner-Up (2004, 2007)
1995 Pan American Games Winners
1996 Olympic Games Silver Medal
Individual Achievement :  1996 Inter Milan Player Of The Year

“The Tractor” Javier Zanetti is a world-class all-round full-back with his strength, resilience, stamina, acceleration, work rate and his ability to run past opposing defenders when joining the attack from his right back position. He is also referred to by team supporters and media as "Il Capitano" (The Captain). Zanetti has been captain for Inter Milan since departure of Giuseppe Bergomi until the present. He has appeared in more than 640 official matches for the club and over 450 Series A matches which is the highest all-time total among non-Italian born players. To Inter fans, Zanetti is one of the greatest players ever to have ever worn the colors of the black and blue. He sometimes switched to play as right-side midfielder or central defensive midfielder. He holds the all-time record most appearances for Argentina national team with 136 matches of play.


39. Jaap Stam



Date Of Birth :  17 July 1972
Nation : Netherlands
Height : 191 cm
Major Club :  Manchester United
Caps :  67 Games
World Cup Participation :  1998 (7 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times English Premier League
1 Time Dutch Champion
1 Time Copa Italia
1 Time FA Cup
2 Times Dutch Cup
1999 UEFA Champion League
1999 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1988 European Championship Winners
Individual Achievement :  1997 Dutch Footballer Of The Year
2 Times UEFA Champion League Best Defender (1999, 2000)
3 Times PFA Team Of The Year (1999, 2000, 2001)

Japp Stam is rated as the greatest defender Manchester United has ever had. By the time he was transferred to Man UTD after showing great performance with Holland won fourth place in World Cup 1998. Stam became the most expensive Dutch football player in history and the most expensive defender in history with 10.6 million pounds and he proved himself that it is worth every penny to buy him. Stam several times helped the team to survive from conceding goals with his high speed, physical body and positioning until Man UTD won their first champion of The Europe in only his first year for club. Moreover, Stam was also outstanding in the air and possessed powerful long-shot. He played as right-back for AC Milan and still done it very well. All in all, Japp Stam is the best center-back ever to play in English Premier League.


38. Laurent Blanc



Date Of Birth :  7 September 1968
Nation : France
Height : 192 cm
Major Club :  Monpellier
Caps :  97 Games (16 Goals)
World Cup Participation :  1998 (5 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time English Premier League
1 Time French League
2 Times Coupe De France
International Honours : 1998 FIFA World Cup Champion
2000 European Championship Winners
Individual Achievement :  1990 French Footballer Of The Year
1998 Legion De Honour
2000 Inter Milan Player Of The Year
3 times European Championship Team Of Tournament (1992, 1996, 2000)

Laurent Blanc was voted as the fourth greatest French player of century according to France Football’s poll. He holds the all-time record most appearances in European Championship Team Of Tournament with 3. Blanc began his career as offensive midfielder with Monpellier. Only a few years later did he settle as a defender. He was one of several club’s players with 9 clubs to play in his overall career. Blanc scored the first golden goal in World Cup history. He was known as a surprisingly high-scoring defender, excellent anticipation, elegant on-the-ball skill style. He was a threat to the opposition’s goal from the air or from either foot. Blanc scored more than 133 goals in his career.


37. Ronald Koeman



Date Of Birth :  21 March 1963
Nation : Netherlands
Height : 183 cm
Major Club :  Barcelona
Caps :  78 Games (14 Goals)
World Cup Participation :  1990, 1994 (9 Games)
Club Honours : 4 Times Spanish La Liga
4 Times Dutch Champions
1 Time Spanish Cup
3 Times Dutch Cup
2 Times European Cup (1988, 1992)
2 Times Intercontinental Cup (1964, 1965)
International Honours : 1988 European Championship Winners
Individual Achievement :  2 Times Dutch Footballer Of The Year (1987, 1988)
1988 European Championship Team Of Tournament

Ronald Koeman was well-known as the greatest defender-scorer in history of the game with 225 goals in 647 matches which is an all-time world record. This record could be as good as a lot of strikers who played as the same level as him. Koeman scored not less than 10 goals in a season almost every years for his career. Most of his scores were done by his free-kick specialist, powerful and rocket long shooting and penalty taking, not only scoring quality but also great as a sweeper with intelligent play ensured an organized defense and provided excellent distribution from the back, always generated precision passing. His leadership ability enabled him to excel as captain of Holland in 1994 World Cup final. Aside from Barcelona, He played for all three big of Holland like Ajax, PSV and Feyenood. Koeman played along with “Three Tiger Soldier” like Gullit, Rijkaard and Van Basten and being overshadowed by them. Koeman was known for his low speed which made him a hard time to catch high-speed attackers. In 1988, He was voted 5th in Ballon D’or.


36. Domingos Da Guia



Date Of Birth :  19 November 1912
Nation : Brazil
Height : 186 cm
Major Club :  Flamengo, Corinthians
Caps :  30 Games
World Cup Participation :  1938 (4 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time Uruguay Champion
1 Time Argentina Champion
International Honours : 1938 FIFA World Cup Third Place
Individual Achievement :  1938 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
Brazil Football Museum Hall Of Fame

“The Divine Master” Domingos Da Guia is considered as one of the finest defender before World War II alongside Jose Nasazzi as well as the greatest Brazilian central defender of all-time. He was noted for his reliable in defensive duty and going forward to support attacking game by his technical abilities particularly dribbling. He quickly rose to fame as one of Bangu's key player. Despite the fact Bangu had a history of fielding black player, Domingos might have witnessed racism in football. Afterwards, Domingos Da Guia settled down as an idol of Flamengo and Corinthians club for a decade until he had became club’s legend.


35. Fernando Hierro



Date Of Birth :  25 March 1968
Nation : Spain
Height : 188 cm
Major Club :  Real Madrid
Caps :  89 Games (29 Goals)
World Cup Participation :  1994, 1998, 2002 (12 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Spanish La liga
1 Time Spanish Cup
3 Times UEFA Champion League (1998, 2000, 2002)
2 Times Intercontinental Cup (1998, 2002)
International Honours : 1982 FIFA World Cup Champion
Individual Achievement :  1997 El Pas Spanish Footballer Of The Year
1998 UEFA Champion League Best Defender
2002 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team

Fernando Hierro was famous as a leader in Real Madrid’s defensive line in the era of “Galaticos Version II” and regarded as the greatest Spanish defender ever. He was equally at ease as a central defender or defensive midfielder, he had the ability, at his peak, to combine solid defensive play with a near-unlimited passing range and surprising goalscoring talent, dominated air battles in front of his goal, which made him one of the world's most sought-after players. He played with an intensity that served to motivate him and deflect spotlight off the skill player. As a defender, Hierro had a remarkable scoring record. He led Spain in total goals with 29 before being overtaken by Raul Gonzalez, and in club play was fourth in the world for defensive player goals with 105 in 497 first division games.
   

34. Velibor Vasovic



Date Of Birth :  3 October 1939
Nation : Yugoslavia
Height : 186 cm
Major Club :  Partzan Belgrade, Ajax Amsterdam
Caps :  32 Games
World Cup Participation :  None
Club Honours : 4 Times Yugoslavia Leagues
3 Times Dutch Champions
3 Times KNVB Cup
1971 European Cup
2 Times European Cup Runner-Up (1966, 1969)
International Honours : None
Individual Achievement :  None

Velibor Vasovic is the most underrated defender of all-time due to his non-appearance in any big international tournament for Yugoslavia. He was a key player for Ajax Amsterdam in the era Rinus Michel originated his total football style of play. Vasovic arrived at Ajax from Partisan Belgrade where he had just picked up a European Cup runners-up medal, five years later he was to go one better by captaining the Amsterdam team to their first ever European Cup in 1971. In that time he had become the first non-Dutchman to captain Ajax; he had also laid out the blueprint for how to play the position of libero in the modern game. What stood out most about Vasovic - and it is a trait possessed by the game's greatest sweepers - is a confidence that not only bordered on arrogance it actively invaded and settled there. In his more subdued moments he claimed to be the central architect behind the total football philosophy, but it is undeniable that his pace and intelligence allowed Michels to implement the ruthlessly efficient offside trap that became a hallmark of Ajax's defensive strategy.


33. Tarcisio Burgnich



Date Of Birth :  25 April 1939
Nation : Italy
Height : 175 cm
Major Club :  Inter Milan
Caps :  66 Games
World Cup Participation :  1966, 1970, 1974 (11 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Italian Series A
2 Times European Cup (1964, 1965)
2 Times European Cup Runner-Up (1967, 1972)
2 Times Intercontinental Cup (1964, 1965)
International Honours : 1970 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
1968 European Championship Winners
Individual Achievement :  None

Tarcisio Burgnich was the first-rate Italian defender during 1960s, was noted for his aggressive, determined style was ideally suited to the catenaccio system operated by Helenio Herrera throughout Inter's glory years. He was part of the Internazionale lineup of the 1960s still known today as La Grande Inter. Burgnich’s best position was sweeper but occasionally switched to play as right-back in the essential time. Burgnich was a main pillar for Italy national team for more than a decade as well as Inter Milan where he played 467 matches. He was selected as a starter in all-time Inter Milan XI from many journalists in www.channel4.com. In 1967, He was selected as a starter FIFA World XI against Champion of Europe “Spain”.
   

32. Silvio Marzolini



Date Of Birth :  4 October 1940
Nation : Argentina
Height : 183 cm
Major Club :  Boca Juniors
Caps :  28 Games
World Cup Participation :  1962, 1966 (6 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Argentina Champions
International Honours : 1967 Copa America Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  1966 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team

Silvio Marzolini is widely regarded as the greatest Argentinean full-back of all-time. Marzolini was really difficult to play against for attackers, was not fast but his excellent positioning was enough to control his area, could effectively go forward too. He had such good ball controlling that it gave him time and space to play the ball away safely. After the first stage group of World Cup 1966 had been finished, British Press rated him as the best player for that stage. Marzolini was chosen to play for the rest of the world all-star team against England at Wembley in 1967. However, He rather played too few matches for Argentina national team because there were a few matches to play during his era and this would be the only factor for him not to be highly regarded as his real abilities.


31. Antonio Cabrini



Date Of Birth :  8 October 1957
Nation : Italy
Height : 178 cm
Major Club :  Juventus
Caps :  73 Games
World Cup Participation :  1978, 1982, 1986 (18 Games)
Club Honours : 6 Times Italian Series A
2 Times Copa Italia
1977 UEFA Cup
1983 European Cup Runner-Up
1984 European Cup Winners Cup
1985 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1982 FIFA World Cup Champion
Individual Achievement :  None

“The Beautiful Antonio” Antonio Cabrini is considered as the greatest full-back of the world during 1980s. Because of his popularity as a fascinating and good-looking football player, On the field, his technical and physical qualities made of him the most popular defender of the history of Italian football. Cabrini was almost a completed side-back, showing his world-class defensive and offensive quality but his right-foot was the only disadvantage that it was not rather useful in some occasions. But still, His left-foot was good enough to create many goals for his team especially scored 9 goals for Italy is the all-time record for defender. He was one of the main players of Juventus in their glory era which was the most successful team in Italy. He was voted from www.channel4.com as a starter in Juventus all-time XI.

30. Albert Shesternyov

 

Date Of Birth :  20 June 1941
Nation : Soviet Union
Height : 183 cm
Major Club :  CSKA Moscow
Caps :  90 Games
World Cup Participation :  1962, 1966, 1970 (9 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time USSR Champion
1 Time USSR Cup
International Honours : 1964 European’s Nation Cup Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  1968 European Championship Team Of Tournament
1970 Soviet Union Footballer Of The Year

“Ivan The Terrible” is the greatest defender ever to come from the Eastern Europe and one of the greatest central defenders of the world during 1960s only to Bobby Moore. He debut professional career when he was just age of 18 year olds. Shesternev basically played as sweeper, being captain who was everything in defensive line of Soviet Union during his era. He won 90 caps for his nation although there were a lot fewer competitive matches if compare to the present. Many have believed Shesternev would be among world’s greatest defender of all-time if he got permission to play in a famous big club of the Europe. In 1966 World Cup Final, He led Soviet Union reached semi-final round and finishing fourth place. In 1968, He was selected as a starter FIFA World XI against Brazil. Aside from 1970 which he won player of the year of his nation, Shesternev was voted 3rd in 1966, 1968 and 1969.


29. Marcel Desailly

 

Date Of Birth :  7 September 1968
Nation : France
Height : 188 cm
Major Club :  AC Milan, Chelsea
Caps :  116 Games
World Cup Participation :  1998, 2002 (10 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Italian Series A
1 Time FA Cup
2 Times European Cup (1993, 1994)
1995 UEFA Champion League Runner-Up
International Honours : 1998 FIFA World Cup Champion
2000 European Championship Winners
2 Times FIFA Confederation Cup Winners (2001, 2003)
Individual Achievement :  1998 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
2 times European Championship Team Of Tournament (1996, 2000)

Marcel Desailly is the greatest defender ever to born in the Africa continent, was a stalwart center-back and note for his strong, domination in the air, radiation confidence and leadership. Desailly was a few players in history to win 2 consecutive European Cup with different team. He had firstly done it with Olympique Marseile before going on his career in AC Milan and won the second one. There, He was a world-class deep-lying defensive midfielder in front of back-line. Then, He was transferred to plain English Premier League with Chealsea where his career was not outstanding as the same anymore. He basically played as a man’s marker for France national team and being one of the best stoppers in the world. Desailly was voted in top eleven in Ballon D’or 4 times during 1994 to 1996 and 1998.


28. Karlheinz Forster



Date Of Birth :  25 July 1958
Nation : West Germany
Height : 178 cm
Major Club :  VFB Stuttgart, Olympique Marseile
Caps :  81 Games
World Cup Participation :  1982, 1986 (14 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time Bundesliga Champion
2 Times French Champions
1 Time French Cup
International Honours : 2 Times FIFA World Cup Runner-Up (1982, 1986)
1980 European Championship Winners
Individual Achievement :  1982 German Footballer Of The Year
2 Times European Championship Player Of Tournament (1980, 1984)

Karlheinz Forster is rated as the greatest man’s marker in history of the Bundesliga games. Kicker ranking rated him 1.5 world-class seasons and 7.5 International-class seasons. Forster was the most important player in defensive line of both VFB Stuttgart and Germany during early 1980s. After Germany had to be disappointed with 2 consecutive losing in World Cup final round, Forster feel his mission for West Germany should be enough and decide to retire from international competition in spite of his 28 year olds of age only and immediately moved to play in France. This regrettably led him not participate in World Cup 1990 which West Germany was able to win a title and he was still in very good performance with Olympic Marseille.


27. Claudio Gentile



Date Of Birth :  27 September 1953
Nation : Italy
Height : 178 cm
Major Club :  Juventus
Caps :  71 Games
World Cup Participation :  1978, 1982 (13 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Italian Series A
2 Times Copa Italia
1977 UEFA Cup
1983 European Cup Runner-Up
1984 European Cup Winners Cup
International Honours : 1982 FIFA World Cup Champion
Individual Achievement :  1982 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
1980 European Championship Team Of Tournament

Gentile is one of the toughest and roughest defenders in the history of the game, considered by many as football 's greatest ever man marker. Gentile generally played at Centre Back but switched to Right Back when needing to mark certain wide-playing attackers. One of Gentile's most favoured tactics was to stand behind the striker who had the ball while kicking between his opponent's legs to play the ball, leaving the opposing player's legs beaten and bruised. Gentile was also a master of the hard tackle to get the ball, not the player, and was rewarded for his skill by a career that lacked even a single sending off. With Gentile's hard and ruthless tackling and Scirea's graceful play and precise reading of the game, the pair fitted together like a jigsaw puzzle. In World Cup 1982, He notably man-marked Diego Maradona out of the game by kicking and flooring him constantly throughout the game, also performed a violent tackle from behind on Zico and later ripped the Brazilian's shirt in half during a tussle.


26. Marcos Cafu



Date Of Birth :  7 June 1970
Nation : Brazil
Height : 176 cm
Major Club :  AS Roma, AC Milan
Caps :  142 Games
World Cup Participation :  1994, 1998, 2002, 2006 (21 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time Brazil National Champions
2 Time Italian Series A
1 Time Copa CONMEBOL
2 Times Copa Libertadores Cup (1992, 1993)
2 Times Intercontinental Cup (1992, 1993)
2007 UEFA Champion League
2005 UEFA Champion League Runner-Up
2007 FIFA Club World Cup
International Honours : 2 Times FIFA World Cup Winners (1994, 2002)
1998 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
2 Times Copa America Winners (1997, 1999)
1997 FIFA Confederation Cup
Individual Achievement :  1994 South American Footballer Of The Year

Marcos Cafu is best known as the only player in history of World Cup to play in 3 final matches which is the record. He start playing the first one in 1994 which he was fortunately replaced of Jorginho because of his injury in the 22nd minute. Afterwards, Cafu participated the second in 1998 which Brazil was just runner-up. Thirdly, He was selected as captain in World Cup 2002 leading Brazil to win that tournament. Cafu is a right wing-back with outstanding pace, technique and dynamic defensive and offensive force. He was similar to many legendary Brazilian wing-back not able to show world-class defensive quality but his intelligent always help him to prevent opponents well. Aside from 1994, Cafu was voted 3rd place South American footballer of the year.


25. Jose Nasazzi


 
Date Of Birth :  24 May 1901
Nation : Uruguay
Height : 182 cm
Major Club :  Bella Vista, Nacional
Caps :  51 Games
World Cup Participation :  1970 (4 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Uruguay Champions
International Honours : 1930 FIFA World Cup Winners
3 Times Copa America (1923, 1924, 1926)
2 Times Olympic Games Gold Medal (1924, 1928)
Individual Achievement :  1930 FIFA World Cup Golden Ball
1930 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team

“The Great Marshal” Jose Nasazzi is regarded by many as the greatest Uruguay footballer of all-time and the only defender in history of world cup to win Golden Ball award. He was captain for Uruguay in their glory years which was the most successful team in the world especially winning the first World Cup in 1930 and basically noted for his leadership and reliability. Nasazzi played as right-side central defender in 2-3-5 system. Regrettably, Uruguay refused to defend their title in World Cup 1934 despite they are still rated as one of the best team in the world. All in all, He is widely considered as the greatest defender ever before World War II was happened.


24. Andreas Brehme



Date Of Birth :  9 November 1960
Nation : West Germany
Height : 175 cm
Major Club :  Kaiserslautern, Inter Milan
Caps :  86 Games (8 Goals)
World Cup Participation :  1986, 1990, 1994 (16 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time Bundesliga
1 Time Italian Series A
1 Time DFB-Pokal 1 Time UEFA Cup
International Honours : 1990 FIFA World Cup Winners
1992 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  1989 Guerin Italian Series A Footballer Of The Year
1990 Bronze Medal European Footballer Of The Year
1990 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
2 Times European Championship Team Of Tournament (1984, 1992)

Brehme is considered to be one of the greatest free-kick takers and crossers of all time. Brehme's special skill was the fact that he was one of the few players in the world who could play with both feet equally well, making him very valuable as an outfield player. He was well known for taking penalties with his right foot and taking free kicks and corners or crossing with his left foot. It's believed that Brehme felt his right foot was more accurate than his left, but his left was harder. He was best remembered as a winning-scorer with taking penalty in World Cup 1990 final round. Brehme was so good in stamina, positional play, precision crossing and teamwork ability. Although Brehme had never rated as a world-class player in Bundesliga games, being rated in international-class 5 seasons as left wing-back plus a season as central defensive midfielder. Additionally, His individual awards show that he should reach world-class performance in Italian series A all 3 years. Brehme totally scored 65 goals in his whole professional career.


23. Lilian Thuram



Date Of Birth :  1 January 1972
Nation : France
Height : 185 cm
Major Club :  Parma, Juventus
Caps :  142
World Cup Participation :  1998, 2002, 2006 (16 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Italian Series A
1 Time Copa Italia
1 Time Copa De France
1 Time UEFA Cup
International Honours : 1998 FIFA World Cup Winners
2000 European Championship Winners
2006 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  1997 Guerin Italian Series A Footballer Of The Year
1997 French Footballer Of The year
1998 FIFA World Cup Bronze Ball
1998 Legion de honour
2 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star Team (1998, 2006)
2000 European Championship Team Of Tournament
2006 FIFPro World XI

Lilian Thuram was a world-class all-round defender and one of the best defenders of the world between lately 1990s to early 2000s. Although he always mentioned his favorite position was Center-Back which he mostly played in his club career but Thuram reached in his prime as a right-back from many eyes of football fan around the world. As a full-back, His performance is regarded as one of the greatest right-back the world has ever seen particularly for international level, was bested remembered as a scorer two goals in match against Croatia in World Cup 1998 semi-final. He possessed top-level stamina and strength, high speed, excellent positioning and above-average skillful. He holds the record with other five players most EURO tournaments play with 4. All in all, Thuram is rated as the best defender in history of France football.


22. Jurgen Kohler



Date Of Birth :  5 September 1967
Nation : Germany
Height : 186 cm
Major Club :  Juventus, Borussia Dortmund
Caps :  105 Games
World Cup Participation :  1990, 1994, 1998 (13 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times Bundesliga Champions
1 Time Italian Series A
1 Time Copa Italia
1997 UEFA Champion League
1997 Intercontinental Cup
1 Time UEFA Cup
International Honours : 1990 FIFA World Cup Winners
1996 European Championship Winners
1992 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  1997 German Footballer Of The Year
1992 European Championship Player Of Tournament

Jurgen Kohler is widely considered as the finest stopper or man’s marker ever in history of the game. He was one of the most completed stopper with his strong, positional play and precision tacking , Although an aerial ability and speed were skills he was just in average only but kohler always manage it with his tactical ability, known as a pure defender not available in technical option. Kohler was totally rated in 2.5 world-class seasons and 8.5 international-class seasons, noted for his separating world-class a half season for 5 years. He was strong as if a steel wall could mark many superstars out of their games. Kohler used to give an interview that there was no strikers who could make him to have a hard time through his career.


21. Roberto Carlos



Date Of Birth :  10 April 1973
Nation : Brazil
Height : 169 cm
Major Club :  Real Madrid
Caps :  125 Games (11 Goals)
World Cup Participation :  1998, 2002, 2006 (13 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Brazil National Champions
4 Times Spanish La Liga
3 Times UEFA Champion Leagues (1998, 2000, 2002)
2 Times Intercontinental Cup (1998, 2002)
International Honours : 2002 FIFA World Cup Winners
1998 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
2 Times Copa America Winners (1997, 1999)
1997 FIFA Confederation Cup
Individual Achievement :  2 Times UEFA Champion League Best Defender (2002, 2003)
1997 Silver Ball FIFA World Player Of The Year
1998 EFE Trophy
2002 Silver Ball European Footballer Of The Year
2002 FIFA World Cup Dream Team
2 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star Team (1998, 2002)
Brazil Football Museum Hall Of Fame

Roberto Carlos was one of the most popularity iconic defenders with his trademarks like powerful and banana free-kick, excellent technique, recuperation, high work-rate and speed, All of those was formed such an awesome style of play led him as a superstar in spite of being defender. On the other hand, Roberto Carlos has never been close to be a world-class defensive player, often lost his position because of his routine running forward to wing-line. Consequently, His best position should be a left wing-back in 5-3-2 system. He has already scored 92 goals in all official competitions in club level. He was also voted in top five FIFA world player of the year in 2002 and 2003 and Ballon D’or in 1997. Some experts regarded him even better than Nilton Santos in attacking game.

20. Matthias Sammer



Date Of Birth :  5 September 1967
Nation : Germany
Height : 180 cm
Major Club :  Borussia Dortmund
Caps :  51 Games for Germany, 23 Games for East Germany
World Cup Participation :  1994 (4 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times Bundesliga Champions
2 Times East Germany Champions
1997 UEFA Champion League
1997 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1996 European Championship Winners
1992 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  2 Times German Footballer Of The Year (1995,1996)
1996 European Championship Player Of Tournament
1996 European Footballer Of The Year

“The Prince Of East Germany” Matthias Sammer is one of three defenders in history to win European footballer of the year. He early start as central midfielder. He was ranked in international-class 3.5 seasons in Bundesliga until the end of Germany in world cup 1994, moving down to play as attacking libero instead of Lothar Matthaeus, showing his fantastic vision when support attacking game. As libero, He reached world-class 2 seasons leading both Dortmund and Germany winning the biggest title of Europe. He was even compared as the same footage with Franz Beckenbauer. Unfortunately, Sammer was gotten a big injury leading to retirement eventually. All in all, His career as defensive was done only 3 years and this affect him could not be ranked among the best ever. But still, He was voted 4th FIFA world player of the year in 1996.


19. Jose Santamaria



Date Of Birth :  31 July 1929
Nation : Uruguay
Height : 180 cm
Major Club :  Real Madrid
Caps :  20 Games For Uruguay and 16 Games For Spain
World Cup Participation :  1954, 1962 (7 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Uruguay Champions
5 Times Spanish La Liga
4 Times European Cup (1958, 1959, 1960, 1966)
2 Times European Cup Runner-Up (1962, 1964)
1960 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1956 Copa America Winners
Individual Achievement :  1954 World Cup All-Star Team

Jose Santamaria is an indispensable defender of Real Madrid “The First Decade Of Galaticos” and regarded by many as one of the greatest central defender of the Latin Americas. He was known for his toughness, uncompromising, top-class stamina and strength. Real Madrid brought him due to his world cup’s performance. Santamaria firstly played for Uruguay but later moving to play for Spain instead after playing for Real Madrid just one year. Nonetheless, he was dropped for spain’s final group because of his failing down performance, had never been called for Spain any longer. All in all, Santamaria is the best central defender of the world during 1950s without any candidates.


18. Elias Figueroa



Date Of Birth :  25 October 1946
Nation : Chile
Height : 183 cm
Major Club :  Penarol, Internacional
Caps :  70 Games
World Cup Participation :  1966, 1974, 1982 (9 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Brazil National Championship
2 Times Uruguay Champion
2 Times Chile Champion
International Honours : 1979 Copa America Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  1976 Brazil League Footballer Of The Year
3 Times South American Footballer Of The Year (1974, 1975, 1976)

Elias Figueroa is the only defender in history to win South American Footballer of The Year more than one time, beat many world-class attackers in that era like Rivelino, Jairzinho, Cubillas etc. Figueroa is considered as the greatest Chilean player of all-time. He was also designated as the best player in Uruguay league in 1967 and 1968 and the best player in Chile league in 1977 and 1978. Figueroa was not only a world-class central defensive player but also renown for his technique skills like vision, passing and ball controlling. Figueroa was also finished the third best South American footballer of the year in 1977. He was voted as 8th best South American footballer of century from IFFHS poll.


17. Berti Vogts



Date Of Birth :  30 December 1946
Nation : West Germany
Height : 168 cm
Major Club :  Munchengladbach
Caps :  96 Games
World Cup Participation :  1970, 1974, 1978 (19 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Bundesliga
1 Time DFB-Pokal
2 Times UEFA Cup
1977 European Cup Runner-Up
International Honours : 1974 FIFA World Cup Winners
1970 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
1972 European Championship Winners
1976 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  2 Times German Footballer Of The Year (1971, 1979)
2 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star Team (1974, 1978)

“The Terrier” Berti Vogts is one of Germany’s greatest defenders of all-time. He was the most instrumental player in a backline of Germany to success in every international tournament between 1970 -1976 especially World Cup 1974 final round which his best highlight was appeared, He was able to effectively neutralizing and mark Johan Cruijff not to reach his prime level. However, Vogts was very overshadowed by Beckenbauer whom he partly forced his greatness. He was known for his aggressive style, uncompromising, tireless and world-class tackling ability. Vogts was not only great in defensive game as a right full-back but also could make his impressive performance as a wing-back with his acceleration and crossing. He was rated as a world-class player 5.5 seasons and International-Class 6.5 seasons from kicker ranking in Bundesliga. Plus, Vogts was finished 5th of Ballan D’or in 1975.


16. Alessandro Nesta



Date Of Birth :  19 March 1976
Nation : Italy
Height : 187 cm
Major Club :  Lazio, AC Milan
Caps :  78 Games
World Cup Participation :  1998, 2002, 2006 (9 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Italian Series A
3 Times Copa Italia
1 Time UEFA Cup Winners’s Cup
2 Times UEFA Champion League (2003, 2007)
2005 UEFA Champion League Runner-Up
2007 FIFA Club World Cup
International Honours : 2006 FIFA World Cup Winners
Individual Achievement :  5 Times Series A Defender Of The Year (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2005)
4 Times UEFA Team Of The Year (2002, 2003, 2004, 2007)
2000 European Championship Team Of Tournament
2 times FIFPro World XI (2005, 2007)

Alessandro Nesta is considered as the greatest defender of the world during 2000s. He was known for his unlucky with often getting injury particularly missing to play in World Cup 2006 final round. Plus, Nesta was out of action for the whole 2008-2009 season in Series A. The fact of matter, Nesta won 5th European footballer of the year in 2000, was the best defender in Italian Series A in early 2000s which he won defender of the year almost every seasons. He was known for his talent to manage with opponent attacker, Outstanding agility, Intelligent , Excellent anticipation. Nesta started well-known in career as sweeper with Lazio which he was a valuable asset of the club and played with them for decade before transferring to AC Milan. His best year was 2000 which he was voted in top 10 both Ballon D’or and FIFA world player of the year.


15. Fabio Cannavaro

 

Date Of Birth :  13 September 1973
Nation : Italy
Height : 176 cm
Major Club :  Parma
Caps :  130 Games
World Cup Participation :  1998, 2002, 2006 (15 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Spanish La Liga
2 Times Copa Italia
1 Time UEFA Cup
International Honours : 2006 FIFA World Cup Winners
2000 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  2006 Italian Series A Defender Of The Year
2006 AIC Oscar De Calcio Footballer Of The Year
2006 Italian Footballer Of The Year
2006 Italian Series A Footballer Of The Year
2006 UEFA Team Of The Year
2006 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
2006 FIFA World Cup Silver Ball
2006 European Footballer Of The Year
2006 World Soccer Player Of The Year
2006 FIFA World Player Of The Year

Fabio Cannavaro is best known as the only defender in history to win FIFA world player of the year award as well as the oldest recipient. He played together with Alessandro Nesta as a buddy in central defender line and becoming one of the best couple defender the world has ever seen. Cannavaro actually could play as both sweeper and stopper, noted for his outstanding in his fierce defending, aggressive and interception. Cannavaro was always overshadowed by Nesta, being voted 2nd on Italian series A defender of the year 4 times. His tall is just lower-average as defender and it has been his disadvantage to manage with aerial ball especially his mistaking to lose winning goal in EURO 2000. 2006 was Cannavaro’s best year which he won 10 individual awards. Afterwards, He had a hard time to sustain his performance with Real Madrid because of non-regularly defensive system of the team. Cannavaro is the all-time most capped player for Italy.


14. Alan Hansen

 

Date Of Birth :  13 June 1955
Nation : Scotland
Height : 188 cm
Major Club :  Liverpool
Caps :  26 Games
World Cup Participation :  1982 (3 Games)
Club Honours : 8 Times England Top Division
1 Time Scotland Champion
2 Times FA Cup
3 Times League Cup
3 Times European Cup (1978, 1981, 1984)
1985 European Cup Runner-Up
International Honours : None
Individual Achievement :  2 Times Silver Medal FWA Footballer Of The Year (1986, 1990)

Alan Hansen was known as the greatest defender ever to come from the Great Britain even better than Bobby Moore if consider only ability not the greatness. A stellar defensive organizer and technician, He was one of the most important player of “The Red Machine” Liverpool which is the most successful team in Europe for years between lately 1970s to early 1980s. Hansen played all 4 European Cup final matches and win 3 times. On the other hand, He unfortunately was not a long-period starter for Scotland national team after World Cup 1982 was ended just because of a compatible buddy of center-back from Aberdeen like Willie Miller and Alex Mcleish. But still, Hansen was still the best defender in Europe during his era. He played as sweeper, had never been frighten on his face, coolness like stagnant and reliable in every situations.


13. Carlos Alberto

 

Date Of Birth :  17 July 1944
Nation : Brazil
Height : 180 cm
Major Club :  Fluminese
Caps :  53 Games
World Cup Participation :  1970 (6 Games)
Club Honours : 3 Times Brazilian National Champions
International Honours : 1970 FIFA World Cup Winners
1974 FIFA World Cup Third Place
Individual Achievement :  1970 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
1998 FIFA World Team Of Century

Carlos Alberto Torres is widely regarded as the finest right wing-back of all-time. He was all-round full-back with his ball control, dribbling, playmaking ability, brilliant positioning, great tackling and reading of the game. Carlos Alberto could play as sweeper as well. He selected as captain, was best remembered in world cup 1970 with his scorer in final match which has been regarded as one of the best score in world cup history because of a very beautiful co-ordination between several players before his finishing. However, His big getting injury affected him not to as great as he should have been. All in all, Carlos Alberto was not the best in his defensive skills but reputable for his first-rate skillful.


12. Giuseppe Bergomi

 

Date Of Birth :  22 December 1963
Nation : Italy
Height : 180 cm
Major Club :  Botafogo
Caps :  81 Games
World Cup Participation :  1982, 1986, 1990, 1998 (20 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time Italian Series A
1 Time Italian Cup
3 Times UEFA Cup
International Honours : 1982 FIFA World Cup Winners
1990 FIFA World Cup Third Place
Individual Achievement :  1988 European Championship Team Of Tournament

“Lo Zio” Giuseppe Bergomi was a roughness defender but it was full of talent and qualities. He was best remembered as one of the best youngest player ever to play for World Cup final. Bergomi was only 19 year olds of ages when he was selected to play in some matches for Italy. Especially, He played in final match and surprisingly marked Karl-Heinz Rummenigge lost his great performance. Peppe Bergomi was a consistency world-class defender during 1980s. His prime was reached in 1990 World Cup which he was selected as captain for Italy. He was still one of the best Italian defender during 1990s but Arrigo Sacchi didn’t select him to play in 1994 World Cup Final just because of his personal favorite. But still, He was selected to play in 1998 FIFA world cup in France in his age of 35 year olds. This would raise him as one of the most consistency defender in history of the game. Bergomi tied with Facchetti to be retired number for Inter Milan. He mainly played as sweeper in his career and hold record most appearance for Inter Milan with 757 matches of play


11. Nilton Santos

 

Date Of Birth :  16 May 1925
Nation : Netherlands
Height : 180 cm
Major Club :  Botafogo
Caps :  75 Games
World Cup Participation :  1950, 1954, 1958, 1962 (15 Games)
Club Honours : None
International Honours : 2 Times FIFA World Cup Winners (1958, 1962)
3 Times Copa America Runner-Up (1953, 1957, 1959)
Individual Achievement :  1958 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
1998 FIFA World Team Of Century
Brazil Football Museum Hall Of Fame

Nilton Santos was selected in FIFA world team of century in 1998 and regarded as one of the best left wing-back in history of the game Nilton Santos was very outstanding in his attacking duty with his pace, world-class dribbling and crossing. He was one of the first defenseman to advance deep into opposition territory as a legitimate offensive weapon. Considering of his defensive skills, He was not among the greatest ever in this point but he was still a world-class one during his era. Nilton Santos was based on left-side defender but sometimes moving to inside defender. He was selected in Brazil team for world cup 1950 which they won runner-up but he was not a starter in spite of his 25 year olds of age. Afterwards, He gradually reached his prime and become an indispensable player of Brazil national team.

10. Ruud Krol



Date Of Birth :  24 March 1949
Nation : Netherlands
Height : 184 cm
Major Club :  Ajax Amsterdam, Napoli
Caps :  83 Games
World Cup Participation :  1974, 1978 (14 Games)
Club Honours : 6 Times Dutch Champions
4 Times KNVB Cup
3 Times European Cup (1971, 1972, 1973)
1972 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 2 Times FIFA World Cup Runner-Up (1974, 1978)
Individual Achievement :  1976 European Championship Team Of Tournament
2 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star Team (1974, 1978)
1979 Bronze Ball European Footballer Of The Year
1981 Guerin Italian Series A Footballer Of The Year

Ruud Krol is the greatest defender ever in history of Dutch football. He was a remarkably all-round defender who could play anywhere in defensive line according to “Total Football” style of play creating by Rinus Michels. Krol played as left-back for both club and national level until his 29 year old of ages before switching to play as libero in World Cup 1978 which he was captain of team. Afterwards, He moved to play as libero for Napoli and became one of the best defender in Italian series A. An intelligent, skillfully elegant and physically commanding player, Krol did very important role helping Ajax Amsterdam won 3 consecutive European Cup trophies and reaching world cup final round 2 times.


9. Daniel Passarella



Date Of Birth :  25 May 1953
Nation : Argentina
Height : 173 cm
Major Club :  River Plate, Fiorentina
Caps :  70 Games (22 Goals)
World Cup Participation :  1978, 1982, 1986 (12 Games)
Club Honours : 4 Times Argentina Champion
International Honours : 1978 FIFA World Cup Winners
Individual Achievement :  1976 Argentina League Footballer Of The Year
1978 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team

“The Great Captain” Daniel Passarella is the greatest central defender ever to come from the Americas and one of the best defender-scorer in history of the game. His leadership, passion and his organization prowess on the field led him as an outstanding captain leading Argentina to make a victory winning their first World Cup. He was a libero who excellent in the air despite his medium height and often join the attack to make a lot of scores. He was also noted for using his elbows against rivals whilst managing to avoid the referee's gaze. Passarella kept the second best record as top scoring defender only to Ronald Koeman. He scored more than 130 goals in his club career. His wonderful season was 1976 that he incredibly scored 24 goals from 35 matches. Unfortunately, He didn’t play any game in world cup 1986 just because of fractious relationship with Carlos Bilardo and untouchable star “Diego Maradona”.


8. Karl-Heinz Schnellinger

 

Date Of Birth :  31 March 1939
Nation : Germany
Height : 180 cm
Major Club :  FC Koln, AC Milan
Caps :  47 Games
World Cup Participation :  1958, 1962, 1966, 1970 (16 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time German Champion
1 Time Italian Series A
4 Times Copa Italia
2 Times European Cup Winners’ Cup
1969 European Cup
1969 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1966 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
1970 FIFA World Cup Third Place
Individual Achievement :  1962 German Footballer Of The Year
1962 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team
1962 Bronze Ball European Footballer Of The Year

Schnellinger is the greatest defender ever to come from Germany. He was not only rated in 4.5 world-class seasons in Bundesliga and World Cup tournaments from kicker ranking but also a consistency world-class defender in Italian series A for years and becoming the best defender of the world during decade of 1960s alongside Bobby Moore. Schnellinger mainly played as left-back in 4-4-2 system but he sometimes was used as sweeper for Germany which he was still rated in world-class in world cup 1970. He was noted for his superlatively positional play, tackling ability, physical power pace and his winning mentality. Moreover, Schnellinger also did offensively duty well especially his long passing. His best year was 1962 which was the only year he won 2 major individual awards.


7. Djalma Santos

 

Date Of Birth :  27 February 1929
Nation : Brazil
Height : 173 cm
Major Club :  Portugesa, Palmeiras
Caps :  98 Games
World Cup Participation :  1954, 1958, 1962, 1966 (11 Games)
Club Honours : 2 Times Brazilian National Champions
International Honours : 2 Times FIFA World Cup Winners (1958, 1962)
3 Times Copa America Runner-Up (1953, 1957, 1959)
Individual Achievement :  3 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star (1954, 1958, 1962)
Brazil Football Museum Hall Of Fame
1994 FIFA World Cup All-Time Dream Team

Djalma Santos is one of the most underrated defenders ever to play the game despite he should be the greatest right-back of all-time. He is one of the two players in history of world cup to be voted in All-Star team 3 times which is the record together with Franz Beckenbauer. Additionally, He was selected in world team of century more sources than any right-back with 4 from total 9 sources. Djalma Santos was known as the best all-round defender with his superlatively defensive game and offensively skillful, was steadfast and tireless running. Bobby Charlton put him in his all-time XI and said “I had never seen anyone could get pass him even one time. Djalma Santos is supposed to know as the best defender of the world during 1950s.


6. Bobby Moore



Date Of Birth :  12 April 1941
Nation : England
Height : 180 cm
Major Club :  West Ham United
Caps :  108 Games
World Cup Participation :  1962, 1966. 1970(18 Games)
Club Honours : 1 Time FA Cup
1 Time UEFA Cup Winners’s Cup
International Honours : 1966 FIFA World Cup Winners
Individual Achievement :  1964 FWA Footballer Of The Year
1966 Silver Ball FIFA World Cup
1966 BBC Sports Personality of The Year Winners
UEFA Jubilee Award (Golden Player of England)
English Football Hall of Fame
1967 Award to O.B.E
1968 European Championship Team of Tournament
1970 FIFA World Cup Bronze Ball
1970 Silver Ball European Footballer of The Year
FIFA World Team of Century

Bobby Moore is one of the most iconic English footballers ever. His greatness has been appeared with a statue outside Wembley stadium. Moore was admired for his reading of the game and ability to anticipate opposition movement, played as center-back mostly by his genius positional play, as he had uncanny intuitive sense for where the ball was headed. His timing in the tackle was unmatched, and he was rarely off of his feet while winning the ball back for his team. Moore is known as a true leader and gentleman with his fair play. In 1966, He was voted as the fourth best of Ballon D’or. Although his ability was not the best ever, His greatness as captain leading England to be champion of world cup could lead him to be ranked among the best.


5. Gaetano Scirea

 

Date Of Birth :  25 May 1953
Nation : Italy
Height : 178 cm
Major Club :  Juventus
Caps :  78 Games
World Cup Participation :  1978, 1982, 1986 (18 Games)
Club Honours : 7 Times Italian Series A
2 Times Copa Italia
1977 UEFA Cup
1983 European Cup Runner-Up
1984 UEFA Cup Winners’s Cup
1985 European Cup
1985 Intercontinental Cup
1982 Mitropa Cup
International Honours : 1982 FIFA World Cup Winners
Individual Achievement :  1988 European Championship Team Of Tournament

Gaetano Scirea has never been as well-known from fan around the world as his great ability. Consequently, He is regarded as one of the most underrated footballers of all-time. Scirea was a graceful defender of great skills and tactical ability, played the sweeper, or libero, role for most of his career, and contributed to the development of this position initiated by Franz Beckenbauer in the 1970s. In the latter part of his career, Scirea played a more defensive central-defender role, which he excelled at just the same. He was a gentleman never got sent-off or suspended in his career. Scirea is also one of only nine players in the history of the European football that won all three major UEFA football competitions. All in all, He is one of the best defender the world has ever seen.


4. Giacinto Facchetti



Date Of Birth :  18 July 1942
Nation : Italy
Height : 191 cm
Major Club :  Inter Milan
Caps :  94 Games
World Cup Participation :  1966, 1970, 1974 (12 Games)
Club Honours : 4 Times Italian Series A
1 Time Copa Italia
2 Times European Cup Winners (1964, 1965)
2 Times European Cup Runner-Up (1967, 1972)
2 Times Intercontinental Cup (1964, 1965)
International Honours : 1968 European Championship Winners
1970 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  1965 Silver Ball European Footballer Of The Year
1968 European Championship Team Of Tournament
1970 FIFA World Cup All-Star

Facchetti is best remembered the greatest wing-back ever in history of the game. He would make marauding run upfield using his wonderful running, dribbling and crossing, even sometimes done well as left-winger to make scores. He could also play as center-back which his tackling was used great effect, possessed excellent stamina, great leadership and scored important goals. Facchetti is compared by some as “Beckenbauer in version of side-back” because of his leadership and technical ability. He was one of the Le Grande Inter which was notable with completely defensive game. He was also voted 5th Ballan D’or in 1968. Facchetti is the only player to be retired number for Inter Milan which he is club’s greatest player ever and played 634 official games with scoring 75 goals.


3. Franco Baresi



Date Of Birth :  8 May 1960
Nation : Italy
Height : 176 cm
Major Club :  AC Milan
Caps :  81
World Cup Participation :  1982, 1986, 1990, 1994 (10 Games)
Club Honours : 6 Times Italian Series A
3 Times European Cup (1989, 1990, 1994)
1993 European Cup Runner-Up
2 Times Intercontinental Cup (1989, 1990)
1982 Mitropa Cup
International Honours : 1994 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
1990 FIFA World Cup Third Place
Individual Achievement :  1989 Silver Medal European Footballer Of The Year
1990 Guerin Italian Series A Footballer Of The Year
AC Milan Player Of Century
Italian Sportman Of Century
1990 FIFA World Cup All-Star Team

“Piscinin” Franco Baresi is acknowledged as the greatest defender ever to play the game. He perfectly played as sweeper and being the most important role for AC Milan’s famous defensive line which kept record without conceding a goal in consecutive more than 900 minutes. Baresi was honoured to retire number 5 for AC Milan. Even his lower-average tall of his, He still always managed with aerial ball well. Baresi was a footballer leader with excellent technique, vision and courage on the pitch. Baresi was voted as 5th and 6th Ballon D’or in 1990 and 1993, respectively, 6th and 9th FIFA World player of the year in 1991 and 1994, respectively. In spite of his world-class performance, He was just a start of Italy national team because departure of Gaetano Scirea. His undesirable remembering is mistaking in penalty shootout in world cup 1994 final match leading Italy lost Brazil finally. Baresi was voted in top twenty in Europe’s player of century by IFFHS’s poll and in the greatest player of century in World Soccer’s poll.


2. Paolo Maldini



Date Of Birth :  29 June 1968
Nation : Italy
Height : 187 cm
Major Club :  AC Milan
Caps :  126 Games
World Cup Participation :  1990, 1994, 1998, 2002(23 Games)
Club Honours : 7 Times Italian Series A
1 Time Copa Italia
5 Times UEFA Champion League (1989, 1990, 1994, 2003, 2007)
3 Times UEFA Champion League Runner-Up (1993, 1995, 2005)
International Honours : 1994 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
2000 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  1989 Bravo Award
2 Times European Championship Team Of Tournament (1996, 2000)
2 Times FIFA World Cup All-Star (1990, 1994)
2 Times Bronze Ball European Footballer Of The Year (1994, 2003)
1994 World Soccer Player Of The Year
1995 Silver Ball FIFA World Player Of The Year
1995 Bronze Ball Onze d’Or
2 Times UEFA Team Of The Year (2003, 2007)
2004 Series A Defender Of The Year
2005 FIFPro World XI
2007 UEFA Champion League Best Defender

Paolo Maldini is already regarded by so many as the greatest defender of all-time after his retirement at 41 Year olds. He was honoured to retire number 3 for AC Milan which he totally played 902 matches for 25 seasons. He incredibly debuted in Italian series A at 16 year olds and becoming a world-class defender since his only 20 year olds for AC Milan and Italy and sustain his level through 1990s before switching from left-back to center-back during 2000s which he still reach world-class in some years. He was also voted in top ten Ballon D’or in 1993, 1996, 2000 and 2005, also being voted in top ten FIFA World Player Of The Year in 1996 and 2005. Maldini is a modern defender with considerable technique and vision, solid defensively, quick and with excellent recuperation skills. Maldini holds the all-time world cup record of 2,217 consecutive minutes played and also holds with Francisco Gento of the all-time most appearances in European Cup final with 8. Maldini was finished 10th in UEFA Jubilee Poll as the best European footballer in last 50 years.


1. Franz Beckenbauer

 

Date Of Birth :  11 September 1945
Nation : Germany
Height : 181 cm
Major Club :  Bayern Munich
Caps :  103 Games (14 Goals)
World Cup Participation :  1966, 1970, 1974(18 Games)
Club Honours : 5 Times Bundesliga
4 Times DFB Cup
3 Times European Cup (1974, 1975, 1976)
1 Time UEFA Cup Winner’s Cup
1976 Intercontinental Cup
International Honours : 1974 FIFA World Cup Winners
1966 FIFA World Cup Runner-Up
1972 European Championship Winners
1976 European Championship Runner-Up
Individual Achievement :  4 Times German Footballer Of The Year (1966, 1968, 1974, 1976)
2 Times World Soccer Player Of The Year (1972, 1976)
3 Times FIFA World Cup Team Of Tournament
2 Times European Championship Team Of Tournament
1966 FIFA World Cup Young Player Of Tournament
1974 FIFA World Cup Silver Ball
2 Times Silver Ball European Footballer Of The Year (1974, 1975)
2 Times European Footballer Of The Year (1972, 1976)
FIFA World Team Of Century

“Der Kaiser” Franz Beckenbauer is regarded as one of the greatest footballers ever in history of the game and the greatest German footballer of all-time. He originally started playing as defensive midfielder before moved to attacking libero which he controlled rhythmic in defensive able to advance on offensive mission with his elegant style of play. Beckenbauer was rated for Kicker magazine in 10.5 world-class seasons and 2.5 international-class seasons, This would be according to his record the most appearances in top five of Ballan D’or with 10 times. He was known for his leadership and effectiveness to read the game. Beckenbauer is not the greatest ever as defender but his creativity, passing, long shooting, holding with ball and defensive game led him as one of the most completed footballer the world has ever produced. He scored more than 50 goals for his career in Germany. Beckenbauer was voted 3rd, 4th and 6th World player of century from IFFHS, World Soccer and France football’s poll, respectively, was voted 3rd the best player in history of World Cup by France Football, was finished 2nd in UEFA Jubilee Poll as the best European footballer in last 50 years.

Ranking in various position of defenders

Sweeper

1.   Franz Beckenbauer
2.   Franco Baresi
3.   Gaetano Scirea
4.   Daniel Passarella
5.          Matthias Sammer
6.   Alan Hansen
7.   Alessandro Nesta
8.   Ruud Krol
9.   Elias Figueroa
10.   Albert Shesternev
11.   Domingos Da Guia
12.   Tarcisio Burgnich
13.   Fernando Hierro
14.   Ronald Koeman
15.        Velibor Vasovic
16.         Laurent Blanc
17.   Billy Wright
18.   Marius Tresor
19.   Miodarg Belodedicci
20.   Ciro Ferrera


Center-Back

1.   Bobby Moore
2.   Giuseppe Bergomi
3.   Fabio Cannavaro
4.   Jose Santamaria
5.   Jurgen Kohler
6.          Jose Nasazzi
7.   Karl-Heinz Forster
8.   Claudio Gentile
9.   Marcel Desailly
10.   Alessandro Costacurta
11.         Jaap Stam
12.         Willi Schulz
13.         John Terry
14.   Hector Chumpitaz
15.   Murtaz Khurtsilava
16.   Fulvio Collovati
17.   Terry Butcher
18.         Jan Popuhar
19.         Anton Ondrus
20.         Alexander Chivadze

Left-Back

1.   Paolo Maldini
2.   Giacinto Facchetti
3.   Karl-Heinz Schnellinger
4.   Nilton Santos
5.   Roberto Carlos
6.   Andreas Brehme
7.   Silvio Marzolini
8.   Ruud Krol
9.   Paul Breitner
10.   Antonio Cabrini
11.   Bixente Lizarazu
12.   Jose Antonio Camacho
13.   Erich Juskowiak
14.   Anatoliy Demyanenko
15.   Rafael Gordillo
16.   Renzo De Vecchi
17.   Hans Peter Briegel
18.         Gianluca Zambrotta
19.   John Greig
20.   Leovilgeo Junior

Right-Back

1.   Djalma Santos
2.   Carlos Alberto
3.   Lilian Thuram
4.   Berti Vogts
5.   Marcos Cafu
6.   Javier Zanetti
7.   Manuel Amoros
8.   Manfred Kaltz
9.          Danny Mcgrain
10.   Leandro Ferreira
11.   Paul Janes
12.   Luis Eyzeguiire
13.         Hans Peter Briegel
14.   Gianluca Zambrotta
15.   Eric Gerets
16.   Jorginho
17.   Phil Neal
18.   Vladimir Bessonov
19.   Mauro Tassotti
20.   Christian Panucci


Full-Back (Both Side)

1. Paulo Maldini
2. Giacinto Facchetti
3. Djalma Santos
4. Karl-Heinz Schnellinger
5. Nilton Santos
6. Carlos Alberto
8. Berti Vogts
9. Ruud Krol
10. Roberto Carlos

Central Defender

1. Franz Beckenbauer
2. Franco Baresi
3. Gaetano Scirea
4. Bobby Moore
5. Daniel Passarella
6. Giuseppe Bergomi
7. Alan Hansen
8. Fabio Cannavaro
9. Alessandro Nesta
10. Matthias Sammer



The Greatest Defender in Each Era

Before The World War II

1.   Jose Nasazzi
2.   Domingos Da Guia
3.   Paul Janes
4.   Severino Minelli
5.   Luigi Allemendi


1950s

1.   Djalma Santos
2.   Nilton Santos
3.   Jose Santamaria
4.   Billy Wright
5.   Alexandru Apolzan


The Early 1960s

1.   Karl-Heinz Schnellinger
2.   Djalma Santos
3.   Bobby Moore
4.   Silvio Marzolini
5.   Tarcisio Burgnich


The Late 1960s

1.   Bobby Moore
2.   Giacinto Facchetti
3.   Franz Beckenbauer
4.   Karl-Heinz Schnellinger
5.   Willi Schulz


The Early 1970s

1.   Franz Beckenbauer
2.   Giacinto Facchetti
3.   Carlos Alberto
4.   Berti Vogts
5.   Ruud Krol


The Late 1970s

1.   Daniel Passarella
2.   Ruud Krol
3.   Franz Beckenbauer
4.   Elias Figueroa
5.   Gaetano Scirea


The Early 1980s

1.   Gaetano Scirea
2.   Daniel Passarella
3.   Alan Hansen
4.   Claudio Gentile
5.   Karlheinz Forster


The Late 1980s

1.   Franco Baresi
2.   Giuseppe Bergomi
3.   Alan Hansen
4.   Andreas Brehme
5.   Antonio Cabrini


The Early 1990s

1.   Franco Baresi
2.   Paulo Maldini
3.   Jurgen Kohler
4.   Alessandro Costacurta
5.   Ronald Koeman


The Late 1990s

1.   Paulo Maldini
2.   Roberto Carlos
3.   Lilian Thuram
4.   Fabio Cannavaro
5.   Matthias Sammer


The Early 2000s

1.   Alessandro Nesta
2.   Fabio Cannavaro
3.   Roberto Carlos
4.   Paulo Maldini
5.   Lilian Thuram


The Late 2000s

1.   John Terry
2.   Alessandro Nesta
3.   Nemanja Vidic
4.   Carles Puyol
5.   Gianluca Zambrotta

Ја се мање више слажем са листом, сем са ранкингом Несте... И нема Ајале 

Bekenbauer zasluzeno...stvarno je bio najjaci.

Васовић је играо и за Звезду,али ајде...
ово ме подсети,да је бивша Југа имала у историји страшне-страшне играче....и чудо да ништа није освојила...али ништа није освојила ни маџарска ''лака коњица'', заједно са Бразилом '58. и '70. вероватно највећи тим икада...
само голмани Глазер-Мркушић-Беара-Шошкић...свако од њих је у том тренутку био најбољи гомлан света...
па бекови Бранко Станковић-Амбасадор и Милутин Ивковић-Милутинац.....средина Бошков,Пижон,Шеки,Куле,Џаја,Моша Марјановић,Чајковски....напад Митић,Галић,Бора Костић,Тодор Веселиновић,Милош Милутиновић-Плава Чигра.......Милорад Арсенијевић (вероватно јединствен случај у свету,фудбалера који је био професор на два факултета,а има преко 50 наступа за репрезентацију)....и отац Србског фудбала Александар Тирнанић-Тирке...