Currently, we have a formidable defense featuring Kounde, Cubarsi, Inigo Martinez, and Balde. Our defensive line has been solid, conceding only two goals in October—a remarkable achievement considering our opponents included Young Boys, Deportivo Alaves, Sevilla, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid.
With Ter Stegen sidelined due to injury, Inaki Peña has impressively stepped up, delivering performances that made us hardly notice Ter Stegen’s absence. Now, as Ronald Araujo and Andreas Christensen near their returns, Hansi Flick faces a significant challenge: who will start, and who will sit on the bench?
Here’s my take on the situation:
• Alejandro Balde: An undisputed starter. As our naturally gifted left-back, Balde plays a “Davies-like” role under Flick, bringing dynamism to the left flank. His crossing ability has been instrumental in providing consistent service to our forwards.
• Inigo Martinez: While some might debate his starting role, he has proven his worth under Flick. His experience and composure make him an invaluable asset, especially with his mastery of the offside trap. He has earned his place in the lineup, game after game.
• Ronald Araujo: In my opinion, our best center-back. Araujo is a world-class defender, on par with players like Virgil Van Dijk and William Saliba. As a leader, he knows the club inside and out, and his speed is exceptional for a center-back. One mistake against PSG last season shouldn’t define him—he has the potential to lead us to major trophies.
• Jules Kounde: Currently the best defensive right-back in the world. No further explanation needed—anyone who has watched him play knows his quality.
With Araujo and Christensen returning, that leaves us with Andreas Christensen, Eric Garcia, and Pau Cubarsi on the bench. While I hold high regard for Cubarsi, rotation is essential to ensure he, along with Christensen and Garcia, receives adequate playing time throughout the season.
This setup is, of course, just my perspective, and I’m open to hearing other views. What do you think Hansi Flick should do? What’s the ideal defensive lineup when Araujo and Christensen are back in action?
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