4 reasons why Real Madrid should sign a centre-back this summer

#2 Real Madrid need depth at centre-back to compete in all competitions

Nacho Fernandez and Militao are the only recognised centre-backs in the Real Madrid squad.

A major concern for Real Madrid heading into the new season is their lack of depth in the centre-back position, which could affect them in competing for all honours. Last season, injuries to Sergio Ramos and Eder Militao meant that Real Madrid, at times, only had two fit centre-backs available to play with no backup on the bench.

Now, after the departure of both Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane, Madrid have only two recognised centre-backs in Eder Militao and Nacho Fernandez, while David Alaba could also be used to fill the position.

Replacing Ramos and Varane 🔄👀⚪ David Alaba⚪ Eder Militao⚪ Nacho Fernandez⚪ Jesus Vallejo@andywest01 looks at the Real Madrid CBs who could take up the mantle 🧐 pic.twitter.com/mV7XZRlMWI

— Sport360° (@Sport360) July 26, 2021

Any injuries to the aforementioned players could mean there is a possibility Real Madrid's lack of depth at the back could be brutally exposed. So adding another centre-back would provide Real Madrid with considerable depth and enable them to compete for all major titles.

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#1 David Alaba could thrive more at left-back

David Alaba could be more effective in the left-back role for Real Madrid.

David Alaba is one of the most versatile players in Europe right now. He started as a left-back but can now play as a centre-back as well as a defensive midfielder.

The recently acquired Real Madrid defender impressed at Euro 2020, playing for Austria with confidence. He will hope to bring the same to the Spanish capital next season as well.

⚪️ Which position will David Alaba play for Real Madrid?#UCL pic.twitter.com/yspDjO0qRt

— UEFA Champions League (@ChampionsLeague) July 26, 2021

Alaba has played at both centre-back and left-back in the past. But as was seen in the Euros, Alaba's best position is at left-back. At the tournament, Alaba ranked third ball recoveries (33), winning ten duels and making three interceptions.

He also ranked sixth in terms of passes completed (243) and had a pass completion percentage of 83. Alaba also contributed two assists and delivered 28 crosses in the tournament.

Alaba featured as a left-back in Austria's 4-2-3-1 system, a formation similar to the one Carlo Ancelotti is expected to use at Real Madrid next season. Therefore, signing a new centre-back would help Alaba move into the left-back position, a position where he be more effective for Real Madrid.