Real Madrid ended the season on a high after clinching yet another UEFA Champions League crown. The Spanish giants have dominated European football and are one of the best clubs in the world. Performing consistently at the top level is not easy. The teams need players who have a winning mentality and perform consistently at the top. Real Madrid are known for scouting young talents. Their academy has also produced a few superstars. However, it is not easy for every player to make it to the first team. Only a few players get a chance to wear the famous white jersey and other players have to find a new home.
One such player who could be on his way away from the Spanish capital is Rafa Marin. The 22-year-old defender played his first full season in the LaLiga. His performances have caught the eye of many, including Serie A giants, Napoli and AC Milan. According to reports, Napoli could seal a move as soon as possible. Marin played for Alaves in the 2023-24 season and here is a glimpse of his debut season in the top flight.
Debut season in Spain
Rafa Marin was loaned out to Alaves at the start of the season. The defender played some regular football with Real Madrid’s B-team in the past two seasons. Marin played in 33 league games, starting in 27 of them. His side finished 10th in the LaLiga table. The above viz shows the percentile rank of the youngster in comparison to other LCBs in Tier 1 of league football. Rafa Marin was ranked below average but this was just his first season in such a competitive environment.
The 22-year-old played on the left side of the defence. He kept discipline on the field and didn’t give away any silly fouls. Most of the fouls took place in the attacking zones. The interception rate was on the higher side inside and on the edge of the penalty box.
This plot measures a centre-back’s aerial presence and effectiveness, crucial for defending set pieces and crosses. Rafa Marin had a winning percentage of just above 50%. This is a high win rate for a defender just playing in his debut season.
This plot illustrates the centre-back’s ability to engage in and win defensive one-on-one situations. High values in both metrics suggest a reliable defender. Marin was ranked just on the average line for winning defensive duels. He contested around five duels and won around 67% of these duels.
Young defenders often put their bodies on the line. A defender who is ready to put his body on the line is often appreciated by many. Rafa Marin is one such player on whom the team can rely. He made some massive blocks in the 2023-24 campaign.
Napoli will aim to fit this young defender in their side. They need to play a better season and aim to finish in European places.
Visuals via TFA data viz engine