Defenders do not typically get as much attention and recognition as top forwards or playmakers. Fabio Cannavaro was the last centre back who was awarded the Ballon D’Or back in 2006. However, even fantastic attacking teams are built from the back. Just ask Pep Guardiola, who invested a fortune in his defensive line before turning Manchester City into a record-breaking goal scoring machine. So who are the top defenders who could impress at the World Cup?

Joshua Kimmich

In the blink of an eye Joshua Kimmich turned from a promising youngster to a world class full back, performing for Bayern Munich and the Germany national team at the highest level. At 23, he has already won 3 Bundesliga titles, became the best assistant in the European World Cup qualification campaign and netted two goals against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League semifinal last season. Kimmich is an irreplaceable part of Joachim Low’s team as he has featured in all 10 qualification games and the following friendly matches. Apart from performing his defensive duties well, the young player never gets tired of running along the sideline and picking out his partners in the front line. Should Germany repeat their 2014 success, Joshua will undoubtedly be part of that.

Nicolas Otamendi

An essential part of Guardiola’s Manchester City, Nicolas Otamendi has recently turned into one of the best centre backs in the sport. Although he was not selected for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, Nicolas has cemented his place at the centre of Argentina defense under Jorge Sampaoli. Apart from efficient and aggressive performance in his own box, Otamendi takes part in all set pieces in opponent’s box and scores headers every now and then. Considering that his national team does not concede many goals, the 30-year old defender could prove to be one of the most secure defenders at the World Cup.

Jan Vertonghen

Belgium have some of the best back line at the World Cup. Vincent Kompany, Toby Alderweireld, Thomas Vermaelen, Thomas Meunier are all good defenders. However, Jan Vertonghen is my pick from that stellar company as he is the most consistent and composed of the lot. An irreplaceable rock at the back of Tottenham Hotspur, he helped his team concede less than one goal per game last season. Besides, Belgium national team only allowed 6 goals in their net during the qualification campaign. Belgium are expected to demonstrate dominant performance at the World Cup and Vertonghen is likely to play an important part in that.

Sergio Ramos

A stalwart for the Spain national team, Sergio Ramos is one of the most successful defenders who are set to play in Russia this summer. He has led his country to two European Championship titles in 2008 and 2012 and one World Cup trophy in 2010. An everlasting presence at the centre of Real Madrid defense, Ramos has had another impressive season at the club. His composure, perfect timing, leadership qualities and ability to score a crucial header in added time make him a rock at the heart of Spain defense.

Marcelo

Widely regarded as the best left back in the world, the Brazilian keeps impressing with his stamina, technical skills and flare. Marcelo might not be the most composed defender but his energy allows him to join about every attack of his team and provide support to his partners in the front line. Besides, he is never shy of dribbling past an opponent and scoring a goal himself, typically with a powerful shot from his left foot. Just like Brazil national team, Marcelo is expected to show some class act in Russia.

Of course, there will be many more defenders at the World Cup who will impress with their composed performance. However, these 5 defenders are the truly best in their craft and have already proved their worth on club and international level.