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In what was a strange start to La Liga with no fans, the campaign surely had a crazy ending to it. Atletico Madrid became champions of Spain in what was a final day finish. The two-horse race made for a really dramatic end to the season with the Los Rojiblancos emerging as winners, their first since the 2013-14 season. Their defense played a key role in their title success, with a formidable back-line backed by a world-class goalkeeper.
While Atletico Madrid defenders stood out last season, there have been many other revelations in La Liga. Teams like Barcelona, Villarreal and Sevilla had some outstanding individual performances in defense, which have caught the attention of clubs across Europe. Meanwhile, clubs like Real Madrid have witnessed notable departures in defense.
La Liga has produced world-class defenders
La Liga is home to some of the best defenders in world football. Over the years, the league has produced several world-class defenders. Barcelona's Carles Puyol, Gerard Pique, Eric Abidal and Dani Alves dominated Spain and Europe for years. Real Madrid have seen the likes of Roberto Carlos, Sergio Ramos, Marcelo, Pepe, Fabio Cannavaro and many more.
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We now take a look at the current defenders in La Liga and rank the top 5 defenders as of August 2021.
#5 Kieran Trippier | Atletico Madrid
Kieran Trippier's move to La Liga raised many questions as the Englishman left Tottenham for Atletico Madrid. Since then, he has been a mainstay in Diego Simeone's side and played a crucial role in their title success. Known for his crossing and set-piece abilities, Trippier suited the new system played by the La Liga champions.
He comfortably slotted in a back-four or a back-three, complementing a more attacking approach from Atletico this season. His six assists in La Liga last season are a testament to that. His solid performances earned him a ticket to the Euros as well. Also known for his versatility, Trippier can play comfortably at left back as well, which is where he impressed for England at the Euros. He is now being linked with a move back to the Premier League with Manchester United.
#4 David Alaba | Real Madrid
David Alaba joined Real Madrid in July and is currently one of the top defenders in La Liga. He has a stellar CV with Bayern Munich, having won a staggering 27 trophies in his 11 years with the German giants. A number that very few defenders could match. So it was only fitting that he joined one of the most decorated clubs not just in La Liga, but the entire world.
Alaba was also the star man and captain for his country at the Euros. He led Austria from the front, putting in top performances in the group stages. He guided his team to the Round of 16, losing to eventual champions Italy. At Real Madrid, Alaba has taken the the number 4 jersey, previously worn by a certain Sergio Ramos, one of the best defenders of all time. Big boots to fill! But with his skills, versatility and leadership he is sure to have a big season at Madrid.
#3 Pau Torres | Villarreal
The left-footed centre-back has been one of the standout defenders for Villarreal in La Liga. In a season where Villarreal finished 7th, Torres had a solid display all throughout the season, eventually helping them win the Europa League last season. He's one of those no-nonsense defenders who likes to clear the ball out of defense. He's good at reading the game to make interceptions.
But what differentiates him from the rest of the upcoming defenders is his amazing ability on the ball. He is able to spray long balls across the field with his wand of a left foot. With 4.5 long balls per game and an overall pass accuracy of 87.8%, Torres is comfortable in playing out from the back. That's insane accuracy for defenders. He is an offensive threat at 6'3", scoring crucial goals for club and country. No wonder clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester United are interested in his services.
#2 Stefan Savic | Atletico Madrid
The ever-reliable Stefan Savic was a rock at the back for Atletico Madrid last season. Diego Simeone's side are known for defensive solidity and the Montenegro international was at the heart of La Liga's best defense. His numbers speak for themselves. With 3.7 clearances, 1.3 interceptions and 1.2 tackles per game in La Liga, Savic was a consistent figure at the back.
With a host of big name defenders in the league over the years, Savic has been one of the most underrated players in the league. He had a huge task to step up in the absence of Diego Godin, and step up he did. He is a leader at the back, marshaling defenders like Gimenez and Hermoso. With the likes of Ramos and Varane leaving the league, this could be his time to shine.
#1 Jules Kounde | Sevilla
Probably one of the hottest properties in Europe, Jules Kounde has been a revelation in La Liga. He's had many eye-catching displays for Sevilla over the last two seasons, especially his performance in the Europa League final in 2020. This season, he's only grown from strength to strength. Under Lopetegui, he's displayed his abilities for Sevilla and was awarded La Liga defender of the season.
At 22, Kounde possesses all the attributes seen in top-class defenders. He's blessed with pace, strength, passing, and surprisingly good aerial ability. And with age on his side, he has a huge ceiling as well. He's yet to feature prominently for a well stacked French national side. But with time he will surely cement his place as a regular starter. A host of clubs have been in for him this season and Chelsea are closing in on a move for him.
