Valles sets the bar: no LaLiga keeper tops his save rate

The early momentum of Real Betis in LaLiga has a clear headline name: Álvaro Valles. As reported by MARCA, the La Rinconada goalkeeper has become a wall in front of goal and is setting the benchmark across the competition.

The key number: 80.65%

Across the first six matchdays, Valles has made 25 saves; only Julen Agirrezabala (26) has more. But MARCA points out that the standout figure is his efficiency: Valles has stopped 80.65% of the shots on target faced by Betis, ahead of keepers like Marrero (just above 80%) and well clear of Gulácsi (70.92%).

Of those 25 stops, 20 have been made from inside the box, underlining how often he’s dealing with high-danger situations, including decisive one-on-ones. The article also adds that his 20 saves from inside the area represent the best record in LaLiga, with the Racing keeper far behind.

From patience to undeniable trust

MARCA also recalls that Valles’ road to being an undisputed starter wasn’t straightforward. He had to take the long way through Las Palmas, and later spent about a year on the sidelines at Betis after refusing to renew—followed by the lack of an agreement with the Gran Canaria club over a transfer.

In his second campaign he’s now the clear choice, and the numbers match the feeling. When asked about possible national team options, Pellegrini didn’t take a stance on who should be called up. “I’m very happy for Álvaro… He has responded and I hope he keeps that regularity… It’s very hard to be a national team coach… It’s not my role to tell [De la Fuente] who to call. We have a great selector in Spain,” the Betis coach said.

With six LaLiga goals conceded, four clean sheets, and match-winning saves, Valles is helping Betis put together the best league start in the club’s history and return to the Champions League after more than two decades. The piece also notes he has already saved a penalty this season—Mbappé’s.