He's part of the best defence in Europe and is a tremendous player both on and off the ball. I think he's technically superior to virtually all CBs in the league bar Toby (latter has a better passing range, imv). He's physical, aerially strong, and can use both feet. Scores goals too and commands the back line which not every good CB can.
Not sure what's the big deal in admitting he's a good player, anyway. Given the chance - every top team would take him including us. Do you honestly believe if he was ours Poch would bench him?