10 Toughest Centre Backs At World Cup 2018

Much maligned in the past, Argentinian defender Nicolas Otamendi has really developed under Pep Guardiola at Man City and can now be classed among the pantheon of elite defenders in world football. He's played 54 times for Argentina, scoring 4 goals in the process and helped the team to two Copa America finals.

The 30-year-old was once criticised for clumsy challenges and reckless play but has become a much calmer and more composed defender in recent times, reading the game well and playing inch-perfect passes to kick off attacking moves for his team.

He was left out of the 2014 World Cup squad but has bounced back to become one of his nation's most trusted players. Statistically, he was one of the best defenders in England this season and earned his spot in the PFA Team of the Year, proving a solid presence at the back, as well as posing a real threat from set pieces and scoring 4 Premier League goals at City strolled to the title.