Ville Koski cements himself as Alavés’ go-to center-back

Ville Koski has earned himself the role of a key piece for Quique Sánchez Flores at Alavés. As MARCA notes, the Finnish center-back is one of the three outfield players who have started every La Liga game this season, alongside Tenaglia and Rebbach.

From an option to a starter

The piece also puts his rise into context. Koski joined Alavés in the last winter transfer window to strengthen a back line hit by a lack of bodies. He arrived injured, and his first start didn’t come until the penultimate round against Barcelona. From that point on, MARCA says he never left the starting XI.

Clean sheets with Koski

One of the main reasons behind his momentum is Alavés’ defensive output when he starts. Since his move to Spanish football, the team has kept a clean sheet in 50% of the matches in which Koski has been in the starting lineup. MARCA adds that in five of the ten games where he began the match, Alavés conceded no goals.

Why Quique trusts him

The article explains what makes him fit Quique’s plan: Koski brings aerial strength and suits the 5-3-2 setup the team has used in most matches, with two other players supporting him in the heart of defense. MARCA also points out that while he is not the fastest defender, his aggression and his ability to disturb his opponent in close duels help him when space opens behind the line.