UEFA Champions League 2015 Team of the Tournament
CB Giorgio Chiellini, Juventus
With all due respect to world-class defenders Diego Godin, Pepe, Raphael Varane, and teammate Leonardo Bonucci, I had to give the nod to Giorgio Chiellini, who was simply an imperturbable rock at the heart of Juve’s defense for the duration of the tournament. Chiellini’s ability to mark world-class players out of games, organize a back-line, and avoid mistakes is paramount, and the Italian legend was, as many were quick to note after Rakitic’s early goal, clearly missed in the final.
Third in the tournament in interceptions and clearances, according to Squawka.com, Chiellini was strong in the tackle and set the tone for an experienced Juventus defense. I could have easily went with Varane here, but Chiellini’s 71.9 passes per game- good for the tenth-best mark in the tournament- sealed his place on this team. No defender had more passes than he did, as he was a calming influence on the ball.
Next: An easy choice on the right