Real Madrid’s transfer activity this summer was very limited in regards to the number of incoming players. Returning loanees aside, the club settled for only two new signings. First, a free transfer of David Alaba from Bayern Munich and next, a deadline day deal to show the young Frenchman, Eduardo Camavinga his way to the Bernabeu from Rennes.
With another season of being unable to sign transfer priority Kylian Mbappe, there were serious questions on Florentino Perez and his management. There were doubts about this squad and the lack of signings. And, a trophy-less season seemed almost certain. However, this squad has performed beyond what was expected under the new boss, Carlo Ancelotti. And, David Alaba has been a big reason why this squad has been able to exceed expectations so far in the season. There is no doubt in my mind that he is LaLiga’s best signing, something I also predicted in our predictions roundtable for the season.
Here are three reasons to support my claims of the Austrian being the best move of the summer in LaLiga.
1. David Alaba’s versatility and impressive skillset
For the opening argument, let us take a moment and appreciate David Alaba for everything that he brings on the pitch. He had his doubters, especially on his defensive abilities but he has proven all of them wrong with his solid performances so far. He indeed is one of the most versatile footballers around currently in world football.
He was a standout in the Euros and has been even better for Real Madrid so far in the 10 appearances that he has had for the club. Some key qualities about him make for an entertaining footballer like his accurate long balls. I specifically remember that one long ball assist to Karim Benzema that he controlled with his back and dispatched for a goal. David Alaba is full of such WOW moments.
His latest outing in El Clasico is sound evidence of his attacking abilities. He started a move himself robbing the ball off of Memphis Depay’s feet and then passing it to Vinicius Junior who in turn went past Oscar Minqueza to switch it to Rodrygo Goes. In the transition, Alaba made a perfectly timed run of almost 90 yards for Rodrygo to find him. He then launched a shot no less than a bullet away from Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s reach. I just have one question what other center back in the world will give their side such an advantage going forward? The run, the shooting confidence, the accuracy, Alaba truly is a gem!
Alaba also shines in building up play from the back. His crossing is another major highlight of his game. He is a brilliant passer of the ball and several other qualities about him make him one of the best players in the Real Madrid squad and LaLiga. He definitely has been LaLiga’s most versatile signing so far with a goal and two assists whilst performing more than satisfactorily in defense, per FBref.