Squad: Raul Albiol (18)

Raul Albiol

Albiol was born in Villamarchante, Valencia. Playing football was his favorite pastime as a child and Valencia quickly took notice and enrolled Albiol in their academy. On 24 September 2003, Rafa Benitez gave Albiol the chance to debut with the first team in a UEFA Cup match against AIK Solna.

Although his natural position was as a defensive midfielder, Albiol was changed to a center-back by then Valencia coach Quique Sanchez Flores and the moved suited the player to perfection. Tall, fast and strong, Albiol is really known for is his ability to move the ball forward and to play it safely with the midfielders; a skill he surely acquired during his days as a midfielder. Albiol also dominates the aerial game, making him a potential threat during set-pieces and the perfect player to clear balls crossed into the box.

Raul Albiol’s international debut took place on 13 October 2007 against Denmark. Once June rolled around, the Madridista was called up by the national team coach to participate in the European Championship, which he won alongside Real Madrid teammates Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos. Albiol also made the cut for the 2010 World Cup of South Africa and went on to win the title, making history with the rest of his team-mates.

Data

• Place of Birth: Villamarchante, Valencia
• Date of Birth: 09/04/1985
• Position: Defender
• Weight: 82 kg
• Height: 189.9 cm
• Nationality: Spanish

Honours

• La Liga (Spanish League): 2003/04, 2011/12
• Copa del Rey (Spanish Cup): 2007/08, 2010/11
• Spanish Super Cup: 2012
• UEFA Cup: 2004
• Under-19 European Championship: 2004
• European Championship: 2008, 2012
• Bronze Medal: Confederations Cup 2009
• World Cup: 2010