Players from Manchester United, Juventus and Real Madrid also appear.
Although forwards always steal the headlines, many great teams have been built on solid foundations and fanatix looks at the best defenders currently in world football.
10. Sergio Ramos, Real Madrid and Spain
The versatile defender can play at both right-back and centre-back and has been part of the greatest achievements for both club and country in the last few years.
9. Gerard Pique, Barcelona and Spain
Like Ramos the centre-back has enjoyed a number of trophy successes in recent history and Pique has developed into the natural successor for Carles Puyol in the Barca back four.
8. Branislav Ivanovic, Chelsea and Serbia
Equally adept at right-back or in central defence, Ivanovic is one of the Blues most consistent and reliable performers and is by far and away their best at the back.
7. Dani Alves, Barcelona and Brazil
The South American is an extremely attacking full-back who exploits the Catalans’ style as a chance to get forward, but can be relied on in defence when the time is necessary.
6. Giorigio Chiellini, Juventus and Italy
The 29-year-old was something of a late bloomer on the biggest stage, but follows in the footsteps of some great Italian defenders from over the years.
5. Nemanja Vidic, Manchester United
Vidic is a retired Serbia international, but can still cut it at the very top as the United captain continues to show – although is unfortunately injured all too often.
4. Vincent Kompany, Manchester City and Belgium
Arguably the Citizens’ greatest signing at just £7m and Kompany could play a big part in Belgium’s success at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil next summer.
3. Philipp Lahm, Bayern Munich and Germany
Although the defender has been playing in midfield for much of the season under Pep Guardiola, this just emphasises the 29-year-old’s versatility and absolute reliability.
2. Mats Hummels, Borussia Dortmund and Germany
It’s little wonder much of Europe’s elite are after this talented centre-back, with Hummels having emerged as one of the world’s best since being rejected by Bayern.
1. Thiago Silva, Paris Saint-Germain and Brazil
The world’s most expensive defender continues to justify the £37m price-tag with some dominant performances for both club and country in some of the biggest games.
