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Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane, arguably two of the best defenders in recent La Liga history, have left Spain this summer. While the Spaniard has moved to PSG, the Frenchman has joined Premier League giants Manchester United.
Now is the time for fresh faces to step up and deliver, and La Liga has a lot of defenders waiting to do exactly that. The Spanish league might have lost three big players this summer, but the talent on offer in every single game is enough to pull eyes from all around the world.
Today, we take a look at
5 defenders who could set La Liga on fire this season
Note: This is not a ranking but just a listicle of 5 defenders to keep an eye on.
#5 Ferland Mendy (Real Madrid)
Carlo Ancelotti is back at Real Madrid with fresh plans. The Italian coach will be looking to help Los Blancos become champions again, and is looking to make the most of his resources.
One big change Ancelotti is reportedly planning is the position of Ferland Mendy. The left-back is reportedly set to be tried out as a centre-back by the Italian manager this season.
Reports suggest Carlo Ancelotti wants to work with Marcelo, the club captain, as the left-back this season but does not want to leave Ferland Mendy out of the side. The new position could prove to be a big opportunity for the Frenchman to show his versatility.
#4 Jules Kounde (Sevilla)
La Liga star Jules Kounde was linked with Manchester City last summer and this time around, it was Tottenham and Chelsea. Premier League clubs know of the Frenchman's talents and have been looking to lure him to England.
While Jules Kounde has rejected a move to Tottenham, he is reportedly keen to join Chelsea. The Blues have allegedly agreed personal terms with the centre-back, but reports suggest La Liga side Sevilla are reluctant to sell him.
“Jules Koundé has chances to leave the club if some club will pay the release clause. Chelsea made a bid last week but we didn’t like it”.
The constant change in fee demands has reportedly ended Chelsea's interest in the Frenchman, and he looks set to stay at Sevilla. The La Liga side will be happy to keep hold of Jules Kounde, as he is easily one of the most promising defenders in the world right now.
#3 Jose Maria Gimenez (Atletico Madrid)
Atletico Madrid are looking to retain their league title and know that their defense will play an important role once again. Jose Maria Gimenez will be the one to keep an eye on in the squad as he will be the first name on the teamsheet for Diego Simeone.
The centre-back will be partnering with Mario Hermoso at the heart of the defense and, when needed, can also play as a right back. However, Simeone will be hoping to use Gimenez in the middle all the time as he has been rock solid for club and country.
Atletico Madrid are happy with his performances so far at the club and handed him a new contract earlier this month. The 26-year-old's new deal will see him remain at Wanda Metropolitano until 2025!
#2 David Alaba (Real Madrid)
David Alaba has made his move from Bayern Munich to Real Madrid after his contract with the Bundesliga champions expired. The Austrian has already played thrice in the Spanish league and has also provided an assist.
Reports suggest David Alaba has signed a deal that will earn him a whopping £376,000-per-week for the five years – which equates to £98 million. Real Madrid believe the money paid to him would be worth it as they see him as the ideal replacement for Sergio Ramos.
Carlo Ancelotti sees Alaba as the centre-back he needs in his squad and has started him there. The Italian could be moving to an Alaba-Mendy partnership later in the season, but for now, Eder Militao continues to occupy one centre-back position.
It will be interesting to see how David Alaba fares in La Liga as the style of play is more intense and physical compared to the Bundesliga.
#1 Pau Torres (Villarreal)
Villarreal won the UEFA Europa League last season and Pau Torres played a considerable part. The Spaniard was on top of his game throughout the season and the Yellow Submarines will hope he does the same this time around.
Manchester United and Liverpool have been linked with moves for Pau Torres this summer, but Villarreal manager Unai Emery wants him to stay. The Spaniard believes it will be best for the defender to move to Real Madrid, Barcelona or Atletico Madrid, and not to a club outside Spain.
“If Atletico de Madrid, Real Madrid and Barcelona want Villarreal players, it’s a source of pride. And Pau Torres? Double, because he’s also from here. If he leaves here, he has to go to Real Madrid or Barcelona.” said Unai Emery as quoted by Marca.
Who do you think will be the stand-out defender in LaLiga this season?
