Top 10 Best Centre-Backs in La Liga This Season (2024/25)

The 2024/25 La Liga season has showcased some of the finest defensive talents in European football. From rising stars to seasoned veterans, several centre-backs have played crucial roles in their teams’ campaigns, ensuring stability at the back and contributing to their clubs’ success. In a league often known for attacking flair, these defenders have proven that strong defensive performances are just as important.

Below, we take a deep dive into the top 10 centre-backs in La Liga this season, analyzing their defensive contributions, tactical importance, and overall impact on their respective teams.

10. Omar Alderete (Getafe)

Getafe’s defensive resilience this season has largely been due to the consistency of Omar Alderete. The Paraguayan defender has established himself as a dominant presence at the back, using his strength and aerial prowess to nullify opposition threats. His ability to win duels and clear danger has been a vital asset for a Getafe side that has had to fight for every point.

With an average rating of 7.15, Alderete has been a reliable force in Getafe’s backline. His 6.0 clearances per game and 68% aerial duels won showcase his effectiveness in dealing with high balls and pressure situations. While Getafe may not be among the league’s top teams, Alderete’s performances have certainly been top-tier.

9. Nayef Aguerd (Real Sociedad, on loan from West Ham)

Since arriving at Real Sociedad on loan from West Ham, Nayef Aguerd has seamlessly adapted to La Liga’s intensity. His blend of physicality and tactical awareness has added a new dimension to Sociedad’s defence, making him one of the standout centre-backs this season.

Aguerd’s 3.6 ball recoveries per game and 3.8 clearances per game highlight his ability to break up attacks and quickly transition into build-up play. His impressive 89% pass accuracy further underlines his importance in Sociedad’s system, allowing them to retain possession and dictate the tempo of matches.

8. Yeray Álvarez (Athletic Bilbao)

A consistent figure in Athletic Bilbao’s defensive unit, Yeray Álvarez has continued to be a pillar of reliability. His no-nonsense approach to defending, coupled with his leadership qualities, has kept Bilbao competitive this season.

With 4.1 clearances per game and a 7.01 average rating, Álvarez remains a defensive rock for the Basque club. His ability to win duels (60% aerial duels won) and organize the backline makes him one of the most trusted defenders in the league.

7. Clément Lenglet (Atletico Madrid, on loan from Barcelona)

Clément Lenglet’s career had been on a downward trajectory in recent years, but his loan move to Atletico Madrid has revitalized him. Under Diego Simeone, he has rediscovered his defensive solidity while also showcasing his ability to play out from the back.

His 88% pass accuracy and 4.5 clearances per game reflect his composure under pressure, while his 3.3 ball recoveries per game show his improved anticipation skills. If he continues performing at this level, Atletico may consider making his move permanent.

6. Raúl Asencio (Real Madrid)

With injuries forcing Real Madrid to rotate their defensive options, Raúl Asencio has stepped up admirably. Initially viewed as a backup, the young Spaniard has proven he belongs at the highest level with a series of composed performances.

His 93% pass accuracy and 2.3 ball recoveries per game demonstrate his technical ability and defensive awareness. Asencio’s emergence has provided Madrid with much-needed depth at the back, and if he maintains his form, he could have a long-term future at the club.

5. José María Giménez (Atlético Madrid)

José María Giménez has been a defensive stalwart for Atlético Madrid for years, and this season has been no different. Despite battling injuries, the Uruguayan centre-back has been a dominant figure in Simeone’s backline.

With 4.3 clearances per game and 2.9 total duels won, Giménez’s defensive output remains top-class. His aggressive yet intelligent approach to defending makes him a nightmare for opposing attackers.

4. Dani Vivian (Athletic Bilbao)

Dani Vivian’s rise has been one of the highlights of Bilbao’s season. His consistency and leadership have been instrumental in the club’s strong defensive record, and he has proven to be one of the best defenders in La Liga.

His 7.15 average rating, 1.5 tackles per game, and 61% aerial duels won highlight his effectiveness both on the ground and in the air. If Bilbao secure European football, much of the credit will go to Vivian’s defensive performances.

3. Pau Cubarsí (Barcelona)

At just 17 years old, Pau Cubarsí has taken La Liga by storm. The La Masia graduate has displayed incredible maturity, seamlessly fitting into Barcelona’s backline. His excellent positioning, calmness under pressure, and precise passing make him a standout talent.

His 93% pass accuracy, 2.8 ball recoveries per game, and 2.5 clearances per game underline his importance to Barcelona’s defensive setup. If he continues on this trajectory, Cubarsí could become a defensive mainstay for both club and country.

2. Antonio Rüdiger (Real Madrid)

A two-time UEFA Champions League winner, Antonio Rüdiger has once again showcased his world-class defensive qualities. His strength, leadership, and aggression make him a key figure in Real Madrid’s defence.

With 3.7 clearances per game and 3.9 ball recoveries per game, Rüdiger’s impact extends beyond just defending—he also contributes to Madrid’s attacking transitions. His experience and winning mentality make him one of the best centre-backs in the league.

1. Iñigo Martínez (Barcelona)

Iñigo Martínez has been the best centre-back in La Liga this season, delivering performances of the highest quality. Since joining Barcelona from Athletic Bilbao, he has taken his game to another level, becoming an irreplaceable part of Hansi Flick’s defensive setup.

His 7.37 average rating—the highest among centre-backs—along with 91% pass accuracy and 3.9 ball recoveries per game, highlight his dominance. His ability to build from the back, combined with his aerial strength (62% aerial duels won), makes him the most complete defender in Spain this season.

Conclusion

The 2024/25 La Liga season has been a showcase of elite defensive talent, with these centre-backs proving to be invaluable assets to their teams. Whether through leadership, technical ability, or sheer defensive resilience, these players have left their mark on the campaign.

With young stars like Pau Cubarsí rising through the ranks and veterans like Iñigo Martínez and Antonio Rüdiger maintaining their high standards, La Liga’s defensive future looks brighter than ever.