The best FIFA Awards 2024: A Deep Dive into the Best Defender Nominees

By: Collins, Kenya | Date: November 29, 2024

The Best FIFA Awards 2024 is set to celebrate the pinnacle of football excellence, with the Best Defender category showcasing some of the most outstanding talents in the game today. As we approach the awards ceremony, it's crucial to analyze the nominees who have made significant impacts on their teams and the sport as a whole. In this article, we will explore each nominee's recent performances, their current standings in their respective leagues, and areas where they could improve to further solidify their candidacy for such a prestigious accolade. 1. Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool) Virgil van Dijk has been a cornerstone of Liverpool's defense since his arrival from Southampton in January 2018. As of November 2024, he continues to showcase his leadership and defensive prowess in the Premier League. His ability to read the game and anticipate opponents' moves has kept Liverpool competitive in both domestic and European competitions. Recently, Van Dijk's performances have been instrumental in maintaining Liverpool's position near the top of the Premier League table, where they are currently battling for the title. However, despite his strong performances, there are areas for improvement. Van Dijk can work on his aerial duels, especially against more physical forwards who challenge him in set-piece situations. Additionally, enhancing his distribution under pressure could help Liverpool transition more effectively from defense to attack. If he can refine these aspects of his game, he will not only bolster his own performance but also elevate Liverpool's overall play. ▎2. Ruben Dias (Manchester City) Ruben Dias has emerged as one of the most reliable defenders in the Premier League since joining Manchester City. His tactical awareness and composure on the ball have played a crucial role in City's defensive solidity as they aim to reclaim their title. As of November 2024, Dias has been pivotal in City's campaign, contributing to their impressive defensive record while also stepping up during crucial moments in matches. To enhance his chances of winning the Best Defender award, Dias could focus on improving his leadership qualities on the pitch. While he is already a vocal presence in defense, developing a more commanding style could inspire greater confidence among his teammates. Furthermore, working on his offensive contributions, such as scoring from set-pieces or providing key passes from deep positions, could add another dimension to his game. ▎3. Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain) Achraf Hakimi has established himself as one of the most dynamic full-backs in world football since joining Paris Saint-Germain. Known for his blistering pace and attacking prowess, he has been a vital part of PSG’s strategy, contributing both defensively and offensively. As of November 2024, Hakimi's performances have been crucial in Ligue 1 as PSG looks to maintain their dominance domestically and compete in the UEFA Champions League. While Hakimi excels in many areas, he could benefit from refining his defensive positioning when facing counter-attacks. At times, his eagerness to join the attack leaves gaps that can be exploited by opponents. By improving his awareness and positioning during transitions, Hakimi can become an even more complete defender while still providing the attacking threat that PSG relies on. ▎4. Josko Gvardiol (Manchester City) Josko Gvardiol has quickly risen to prominence since his move to Manchester City, showcasing exceptional talent at such a young age. His versatility allows him to play across various defensive roles, making him an invaluable asset for Pep Guardiola's side. As of November 2024, Gvardiol has been a key player in City's defense, demonstrating maturity beyond his years while contributing significantly to their title challenge.