La Liga 2019/20: The best XI of this dramatic season
By Sachin Bhat
Los Blancos clinched the title for a 34th time, so naturally have a dominant presence in the XI
Another epic season in La Liga drew to a close on Sunday as Real Madrid were once again crowned champions of Spain after dethroning Barcelona.
Leganes, Mallorca, and Espanyol were relegated from the top-flight, whereas Granada made history by qualifying for the Europa League for the very first time.
There’s plenty to dissect and reflect upon, but let’s content ourselves for now by looking at the best player from each position.
So here’s the 2019/20 team of the season in La Liga:
Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois (Real Madrid)
After a catastrophic debut season with Los Blancos which also led to many label him as one of the most disappointing signings of the season, Courtois went on to resurrect himself this term with top-notch performances. He was back to his usual best and produced numerous vital saves. The Belgian shot-stopper also finished the league with the highest number of clean sheets (13) and the least amount of goals conceded (20), to win the elusive Zamora trophy, the first Real Madrid ‘keeper to clinch the prize since Iker Casillas in 2008.
Right-back: Daniel Carvajal (Real Madrid)
For someone who famously dubbed himself a ‘fail’ after the miserable 2018/19 season, Carvajal enjoyed something of a renaissance. Not only did he manage to keep himself fit, but also hit the throttle again. The Spaniard laid six assists – the most he’s managed in a single season, whilst also being solid defensively. He boasted an admirable 77% success with tackles, and also made the most number of blocks (20).
Centre-back: Sergio Ramos (Real Madrid)
Real Madrid were uncharacteristically stoic this season, maintaining the best defensive record in the league by conceding only 25 goals, and the leadership of Ramos has an undeniable role to play in it. Not only was he tremendous at the back with crucial tackles and clearances, but also made his presence felt upfront by netting 11 times! He dispatched several penalties during the home stretch of the campaign to win some important points along the way, and quite remarkably, only nine players in La Liga this season struck more goals than the centre-back!
Centre-back: Diego Carlos (Sevilla)
The Andalusian outfit had a fine season, finishing fourth and also conceding the third-least amount of goals. An integral part of that obdurate defense was Carlos, who’s now being eyed by several Premier League teams.
Roped in from Nantes just last year, he made the step up from Ligue 1 to La Liga with little hesitation. He averaged five clearances per game, while his aerial prowess can be ascertained from the 2.8 duels average he maintained. The fact that he also started 35 games, the most in the squad after only Jesus Navas, is a testament to how important he’s become to Sevilla already.
Left-back: Sergio Reguilon (Sevilla)
After struggling for regular game time with Real Madrid, the 23-year old sought pastures anew with Sevilla, and duly emerged as the best left-back in the division. His dribbling quality was particularly eye-catching as he strode forward to terrific effect, and also laid 40 key passes, the most for a defender bar one. Besides, he also got directly involved in six goals.