Defenders are the backbone of any great football team, and La Liga 2024/25 was no exception. Week in, week out, some of the league’s most consistent performers operated from the back breaking down rival assaults, leading transitions, and showing that defending is more than just tackling.
Minutes played, defensive statistics like tackles and recoveries, overall consistency, team impact, and, when appropriate, creative input were all taken into account while creating this rating. The list was influenced by numbers, but team results and impact on the field were equally considered.
Naturally, this type of ranking omits worthy names. Even if every attempt was made to include the finest, no list is flawless because football is full of unpredictable injuries, tactical changes, and brilliant moments. Nevertheless, these ten defenders earned their spot and stood tall throughout the campaign.
10. Celta Vigo’s Marcos Alonso
Matches Played: 30
Goals: 3
Minutes: 2565
1.1 tackles per game
Alonso, who is 34, has found new life at Celta Vigo. In a side that was rebuilding, the former Barcelona full-back established himself as a reliable presence on the left, scoring three goals while remaining composed. His expertise helped anchor the back line, even though he wasn’t the fastest.
9. Real Sociedad’s Sergio Gómez
36 games were played.
Objectives:
Helps: 5
2672 minutes
Large Chances Made: 15
1.8 tackles per game
Per-Game Ball Recoveries: 3.9
This season, Sergio Gómez was a whole package for Real Sociedad. His combination of creativity and defensive contribution was unparalleled, as he generated 15 major opportunities and averaged almost four ball recoveries per game. He was one of La Liga’s most useful full-backs because of his reliable play and unwavering work ethic.
8. Villarreal’s Sergi Cardona
35 games were played.
Objectives: 1
Helps: 7
Minutes: 2955
Large Chances Produced: 10
2.0 tackles per game
Sergi Cardona had a breakthrough season with Villarreal at the age of just 25. His offensive threat from the back is highlighted by his 10 big chances and 7 assists. Cardona’s defensive play and steady playing time were essential to Villarreal’s comeback, as the team managed to qualify for the Champions League despite giving up 49 goals.
7. The Atletico Madrid player Marcos Llorente
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