3. David Alaba
Making his case at number three is Real Madrid’s latest free agent signing, David Alaba. Of the strangest of all transitions that Real Madrid has recently had, reviving a defense that lost both Sergio Ramos and Raphael Varane in the same transfer window was probably the most challenging. But, thanks to David Alaba, and a rising Eder Militao, Real Madrid’s defense has outperformed expectations, considering the high line that Carlo Ancelotti plays with.
Much like Schuster, Alaba has also recently won his very first title in a white shirt in his debut season, the Spanish Supercup. Real Madrid also looks comfortably on course towards winning the 35th league crown by the end of the season. And, David Alaba has been a crucial campaigner in this journey set on the backdrop of a trophy-less season and one with three significant departures including that of former manager, Zinedine Zidane.
David Alaba is the club’s new number 4, and one would argue that he has replaced Sergio Ramos in the lineup. And, he has done a brilliant job so far. Filling in the void of one of the best defenders and leaders of this generation isn’t an easy task but Alaba has been onto it. He leads the backline like a true leader and dons that number four shirt with the sort of ball-playing that Madridistas expect from their number 4. He has been the best signing in LaLiga this season, in my opinion.
He is good at launching up the long balls, has bagged some picture-perfect assists in the season, has a couple of Golazos to his name, and time and again, he has been immense in defense. There are very high chances that David Alaba would elevate his position on this rankings if he plays longer with the club and continues with the same winner’s mentality.