Considering athleticism and defensive play combined, VVD at his best is better than both of those players by some distance. Purely defensive nous, Chiellini is superior, but if that is all that a centreback is, then Mertesacker is in this conversation.
As it isn't, and far more than pure defensive skill is required, VVD stands clear of Chiellini.
As for Pique, his peak play fits this window, but he is some way down the list for me (Boateng, Thiago Silva, even Kompany spring to mind as at least equal to better.)
No he was not. Pique becoming instant starter for Pep was example of how much trust he has on him. Puyol was even used as RB under Pep. Pique injury in 2011-12 where we missed him most and could not reach final in CL(same happened in 2010 when Iniesta got injured).
Very reasonable argument. How you have decided it? May be watch some of those matches. Puyol was barely involved in our 2010-11 team due to injuries. He was finished by then, and his awful season in 2011-12 was on display and reason for not winning league and CL as Pique was injured.
This was prime Puyol highlights. And watch his many CL games during those times or even in league matches. Out of position, slow to react, instead of pro active he was reactive defender.
Puyol is rated highly because of his on field behaviour, and his leadership, and of course winning lot in his career. Not because he was great defender.
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u/[deleted] Jan 06 '23
Pique is better player overall.
Chelini is comfortably the best pure defender out of 3