Alavés Defenders 2024/25
Deportivo Alaves defenders roster blends seasoned professionals and emerging talents fortifying their backline. Here’s a closer look at the club’s defensive lineup, with emphasis on structure, players, among other essential stats.
1. Adrián Pica
Born on April 25, 2002, in Alba de Tormes, Spain, Adrián Hernández Hernández, commonly known as Adrián Pica, is a promising centre-back standing at 1.90 meters. His football journey commenced in the youth ranks of Salamanca CF UDS, followed by stints at CD Alba de Tormes CF and CD Guijuelo. Pica made his senior debut with Guijuelo on March 21, 2021, in a Segunda División B match against Racing de Ferrol.
In August 2022, he transitioned to CD Mirandés B in Tercera Federación, where he accumulated 26 appearances and netted one goal. The subsequent season saw him return to Guijuelo, contributing significantly with 32 caps and one goal. His consistent performances caught the attention of Deportivo Alaves defenders squad, leading to his signing on July 17, 2024. Initially assigned to Alavés B, Pica’s impressive form earned him a promotion to the first team, where he debuted in La Liga on August 28, 2024, against Real Sociedad. While the exact transfer fee remains undisclosed, Pica’s rapid ascent underscores his potential and the club’s faith in his abilities.
2. Andoni Gorosabel
Hailing from Arrasate, Gipuzkoa, Spain, Andoni Gorosabel is a versatile defender born on August 4, 1996. His formative years were spent with UD Aretxabaleta and later Real Sociedad’s youth setup. To gain senior experience, Gorosabel was loaned to SD Beasain in Tercera División for the 2014/15 season. Subsequent loan spells included a year at Real Unión in Segunda División B.
Upon returning to Real Sociedad, he was promoted to the reserves and made his La Liga debut on September 21, 2017, against Levante UD. Over the years, Gorosabel became a reliable figure in Real Sociedad’s defense, amassing over 100 appearances. In August 2023, he signed a one-year contract with Deportivo Alaves defenders roster, contributing significantly throughout the season. His consistent performances led to a move to Athletic Bilbao on June 19, 2024, where he inked a four-year deal. While Gorosabel’s tenure at Alavés was brief, his impact was noteworthy.
3. Florian Lejeune
French defender Florian Lejeune, born on May 20, 1991, in Paris, stands at an imposing 1.90 meters. His professional journey began with French club Istres, where his performances caught the eye of Villarreal CF, leading to his signing in July 2011 for a reported €1 million. Lejeune’s time in Spain included loan spells at Stade Brestois 29 in Ligue 1.
In 2014, he joined Girona FC in Spain’s Segunda División, becoming a mainstay in their defense. His consistent displays earned him a move to Manchester City in August 2015, though he was immediately loaned back to Girona. In June 2016, Lejeune returned to Spain with SD Eibar, signing a four-year contract. His impressive performances in La Liga led to a transfer to Newcastle United in July 2017.
After a stint in the Premier League, Lejeune returned to Spain, joining Deportivo Alaves defenders lineup on loan in September 2020. His solid displays convinced Alavés to secure his services permanently in July 2021. In July 2022, he was loaned to Rayo Vallecano, where he continued to showcase his defensive prowess. Lejeune’s journey reflects a career marked by adaptability and consistent performances across Europe’s top leagues.
4. Kiko Femenía
Francisco “Kiko” Femenía Far, born on February 2, 1991, in Sanet y Negrals, Spain, is a dynamic right-back known for his pace and technical ability. His professional career commenced with Hércules CF, where he debuted in June 2008. His potential led to a move to FC Barcelona B in July 2011 for a fee of €2 million. After two seasons, Femenía transferred to Real Madrid Castilla in August 2013.
Seeking more first-team opportunities, he joined AD Alcorcón in January 2015. His performances caught the attention of Deportivo Alaves defenders squad, leading to his signing in July 2015. Femenía played a pivotal role in Alavés’ promotion to La Liga and their subsequent impressive campaigns. In July 2017, he ventured abroad, signing a four-year deal with Watford FC in the English Premier League.
After five years in England, Femenía returned to Spain, joining Villarreal CF in July 2022 on a three-year contract. His career trajectory highlights his adaptability and consistent contributions at both domestic and international levels.
Deportivo Alavés’ defensive lineup for the 2024/25 season is a testament to the club’s strategic recruitment and development approach. By blending experienced professionals with emerging talents, Alavés has constructed a resilient backline capable of competing at the highest levels of Spanish football. Each defender brings a unique set of skills and experiences, collectively contributing to the team’s objectives for the season.
