Cafu: It's been a long time since Real Madrid had a full-back like Carvajal LaLiga - Real Madrid Brazilian praised defender

One of the best right-backs to have played the game, Cafu has been singing Dani Carvajal's praises.

The Real Madrid man is back to his very best after a serious illness curtailed his season.

"He is very good, one of the best in the world after Daniel Alves," Cafu said at the presentation of the Laureus Awards to the best athletes of 2017.

"He's been playing well for many years, attacking with force and defending with the same determination.

"Real Madrid haven't had a full-back as good as him for a long time."

Alongside Raul and Nakata, the Brazilian attended to the media at Monday's gathering in Monaco, and he was also asked about compatriot Neymar.

"Only he knows what's best for him and the rest of us should respect his decision," he explained.

Suggestions that the French league was not competitive enough for a footballer of Neymar's calibre, Cafu disagreed.

"Elite level players can play anywhere in the world," he continued, noting that Ligue 1 had been converted, thanks to Neymar, into one of the most followed worldwide.