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#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?
