From Athletic Club to FC Barcelona, Rayo Vallecano, and Getafe CF, these defenders have demonstrated their value to their teams. They have played a crucial role in their teams' success, and their statistics and achievements are a testament to their dedication and hard work.
1. Dani Vivian (Athletic Club)
Dani Vivian has been a key player in Athletic Club's defense, delivering an impressive season with 32 matches played and 2,605 minutes logged. He has scored 4 goals, an impressive tally for a central defender, and has contributed to 13 clean sheets. His ability to anticipate and clear dangerous balls has been crucial to the team's success.
Under his leadership, Athletic Club qualified for the UEFA Champions League for the first time since 2014/15, securing fourth place in LALIGA EA SPORTS. This achievement marks a milestone for the club and highlights the defensive work led by Vivian.
2. Iñigo Martínez (FC Barcelona)
Iñigo Martínez has been a pillar of FC Barcelona's backline, bringing experience and composure to crucial moments. In the 2024/25 season, he played 28 matches, totaling 2,493 minutes, and helped keep 8 clean sheets. He has also recovered possession 126 times, with a 91.6% success rate, and has received no red cards, showcasing his defensive skills.
As a key part of Barcelona's domestic treble-winning team, Martínez has demonstrated his leadership and consistency, instrumental in one of the club's most successful campaigns in recent history. The team secured a treble of LALIGA, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de España titles, as well as reaching the Champions League semifinals for the first time in six years.
3. Pau Cubarsí (FC Barcelona)
Pau Cubarsí has emerged as a standout defensive revelation of the season, establishing himself as a starter for Barcelona at just 18 years old. He played 35 matches, totaling 2,621 minutes, and helped the team keep 11 clean sheets, conceding only 30 goals during his time on the pitch.
Cubarsí has demonstrated maturity, anticipation, and excellent aerial ability, winning 81.1% of aerial duels per match. He was a key part of the defense that achieved Barcelona's domestic treble and has been one of the most positive developments for the club's future.
4. Omar Alderete (Getafe CF)
Omar Alderete has been Getafe's defensive stronghold, playing 34 matches and logging 2,978 minutes in LALIGA. Known for his toughness and shot-blocking ability, Alderete has been instrumental in Getafe's solid defensive season.
The team comfortably avoided relegation and posted one of its best recent defensive records, staying well clear of the drop zone and showing solidity against direct rivals. Alderete contributed 1 goal and was vital in 8 clean-sheet matches, highlighting his importance to the team.
5. Andrei Ratiu (Rayo Vallecano)
Andrei Ratiu was one of the standout full-backs of the season, blending physical effort, defensive security, and offensive contribution. He played 26 league matches, scoring 2 goals and providing 3 assists, actively contributing to 18 of Rayo's victories.
His season coincided with the club's best campaign in over a decade, with Rayo Vallecano finishing eighth in LALIGA and qualifying for the UEFA Europa Conference League. Ratiu also played a prominent role in the Copa del Rey, where Rayo reached the round of 16, showcasing his consistency and versatility.