A recent ranking of the world’s top 25 defenders embarrassed itself by consigning Cesar Azpilicueta to 17th place. More shockingly, two Tottenham Hotspurs came in higher than the Chelsea man.
Cesar Azpilicueta has very few flaws as a defender, and even fewer flaws as a man. Despite consistently high performances across the season and his career, the Telegraph ranked him only the 17th best defender in the world.
This is embarrassingly low for one of the best defenders in the league. Somehow, Tottenham’s Danny Rose and Toby Alderweireld ranked higher than Azpilicueta.
Since arriving at Chelsea in 2012 Azpilicueta has excelled at right back, left back and centre back. He has also performed admirably as a midfielder or wing-back when needed. The listing gave no justification for his low placing. It had only praise for the Spaniard:
"Outstanding at right-back or left-back and is now excelling on the right side of a back three, mopping up the ball and opposition attacks with keen anticipation fuelled by a nose for danger. Impeccable on the half-term when faced by a forward running at him, he has none of the flamboyance of David Luiz but his remorseless efficiency makes him Chelsea’s best defensive asset."
That is all true. The article fairly highlights his quality, but also understates it because of his placing. The Telegraph even compares him to David Luiz, a player who made it into the Team of the Year, which Azpilicueta did not (a travesty in itself).
Of course, one ranking does not define a player. But this only mirrors his reputation in the wider football community. Increasingly, attention has turned from attacking players to those in defensive positions. This is particularly so this season with the growing trend towards three at the back. But despite his best efforts, Azpilicueta still falls under the radar (again, with the Team of the Year slight). It makes little sense.
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Azpilicueta slots into the squad in any situation with ease and give his all in every performance. He has proven his skill in every position he plays. He stands out because he fits in so well. His contribution to the club is incredibly important but often overlooked in comparison to other defenders in the league.
Azpilicueta works hard and it pays off. His performances on the pitch are solid every week. Even during that nightmare of a season last year, he was one of the few players who maintained his form and professionalism throughout.
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This Chelsea man is a contender to be the next captain. That is how much he has given to the club. His leadership qualities match his defensive talents. But, in a time of over-analysis, Cesar Azpilicueta continues to be underrated.