Celta Vigo Defenders 2024/25

As the 2024/25 season unfolds, RC Celta Vigo defenders boasts a formidable lineup, blending seasoned veterans with emerging talents. This composition reflects the club’s strategic vision and commitment to both experience and youth development. Below is an in-depth look at each defender, highlighting their backgrounds, career trajectories, and contributions to the team.

Carl Starfelt

Carl Starfelt, a Swedish center-back, joined Celta Vigo defenders on August 10, 2023, for a transfer fee of £4.3 million. Born on June 1, 1995, in Stockholm, Sweden, Starfelt began his professional journey with IF Brommapojkarna, making his Allsvenskan debut against Kalmar FF on March 30, 2014. His consistent performances caught the attention of IFK Göteborg, where he transferred ahead of the 2018 season.

In July 2019, he ventured abroad to join Russian Premier League side Rubin Kazan. Two years later, in July 2021, Starfelt signed with Scottish giants Celtic, contributing significantly to their defensive line. His tenure at Celtic was marked by a solid partnership with Cameron Carter-Vickers, leading to a Scottish Premiership title. At Celta Vigo, Starfelt has quickly established himself as a reliable presence in the heart of the defense, known for his tactical intelligence and aerial prowess.

Óscar Mingueza

Spanish defender Óscar Mingueza, born on May 13, 1999, in Santa Perpètua de Mogoda, Catalonia, is a product of FC Barcelona La Masia academy, which he joined in 2007. Originally playing as a center-back, Mingueza showcased his versatility by adeptly covering both central and right-back positions. He made his first-team debut for Barcelona on November 24, 2020, in a UEFA Champions League match against Dynamo Kyiv. During his time with the Catalan giants, he was part of the squad that clinched the Copa del Rey in the 2020-21 season. On July 31, 2022, Mingueza transferred to Celta Vigo defenders on a four-year deal for a reported fee of €3 million. Since his arrival, he has been instrumental in bolstering the team’s defense, appreciated for his composure on the ball and tactical versatility.

Sergio Carreira

Born on October 13, 2000, in Vigo, Spain, Sergio Carreira is a promising right-back who rose through the youth ranks of Celta Vigo defenders. He made his senior debut with Celta’s B team before breaking into the first team. Carreira’s development has been closely monitored by the club, and he has been earmarked as a key player for the future. His attacking instincts, combined with defensive diligence, make him a valuable asset on the right flank.

Joseph Aidoo

Joseph Aidoo, a Ghanaian center-back born on September 29, 1995, in Tema, Ghana, began his professional career with Inter Allies in the Ghana Premier League. In August 2015, he was loaned to Swedish club Hammarby IF, where his impressive performances led to a permanent move. In July 2017, Aidoo signed with Belgian side Genk, contributing to their defensive line and gaining valuable European experience. On July 11, 2019, he transferred to Celta Vigo defenders for a reported fee of €8 million. Known for his physicality and strong aerial abilities, Aidoo has been a steadfast presence in Celta’s defense. As of January 30, 2025, he moved on loan to Real Valladolid, seeking regular playing time and further development opportunities.

Marcos Alonso

Spanish left-back Marcos Alonso, born on December 28, 1990, in Madrid, Spain, brings a wealth of experience to Celta Vigo. A product of Real Madrid’s youth system, Alonso made his professional debut with Real Madrid B before a brief stint with the first team. In 2010, he moved to English side Bolton Wanderers, followed by a transfer to Fiorentina in Italy. His performances in Serie A earned him a move to Chelsea in 2016, where he enjoyed significant success, including Premier League and UEFA Europa League titles. Alonso returned to Spain, joining Barcelona in 2022, before signing with Celta Vigo defenders ahead of the 2024/25 season. His attacking prowess and set-piece expertise add a dynamic dimension to Celta’s left flank.

Mihailo Ristic

Mihailo Ristic, born on October 31, 1995, in Bijeljina, Bosnia and Herzegovina, is a Serbian left-back known for his versatility and technical skills. He began his professional career with Red Star Belgrade, contributing to their domestic successes. Ristic then had stints with Russian club FC Krasnodar and French side Montpellier, where he further honed his defensive and offensive capabilities. In the summer of 2024, he joined Celta Vigo defenders lineup, aiming to strengthen their defensive options and provide depth on the left side.

Javier Manquillo

Spanish right-back Javier Manquillo, born on May 5, 1994, in Madrid, Spain, developed through the youth system of Atlético Madrid. He made his professional debut with Atlético’s first team, contributing to their domestic and European campaigns. Manquillo has accumulated extensive experience across Europe’s top leagues, with loan spells at Liverpool in the English Premier League, Olympique Marseille in Ligue 1, and Sunderland in the Premier League. In 2017, he signed permanently with Newcastle United, where he spent several seasons. Ahead of the 2024/25 season, Manquillo returned to Spain, joining Celta Vigo defenders roster to bolster their defensive ranks with his experience and versatility.

Carlos Domínguez

Born on February 4, 2001, in Vigo, Spain, Carlos Domínguez is a center-back who has progressed through Celta Vigo’s youth academy. He made his senior debut for the club in 2021 and has since steadily developed into a reliable option in central defense. Domínguez is noted for his composure on the ball and ability to read the game effectively, making crucial interceptions and well-timed tackles. His aerial ability also stands out, allowing him to contest duels effectively against physically imposing forwards. With Celta Vigo defenders emphasizing homegrown talent, Domínguez remains an essential figure in their long-term defensive plans, providing both depth and potential for further growth.

Unai Núñez

Unai Núñez, a Spanish center-back born on January 30, 1997, in Portugalete, Spain, is on loan at Celta Vigo defenders lineup from Athletic Club. He joined Celta in the summer of 2022 on a one-year loan deal, which was later extended, ensuring his presence in the squad for the 2024/25 campaign. Núñez emerged from Athletic Bilbao’s youth academy, making his La Liga debut in 2017. Over the years, he developed a reputation as a physically dominant defender, excelling in one-on-one situations and aerial duels. Despite facing competition for a starting spot at Athletic Club, he gained valuable experience in European competitions, further refining his defensive acumen. At Celta Vigo, Núñez has become a key component of the backline, bringing a blend of strength, tactical awareness, and an aggressive defensive style that aligns well with the team’s structure.

Celta Vigo’s defensive unit for the 2024/25 season presents a well-balanced mix of experienced professionals and emerging talents. With a blend of technical ability, physical dominance, and tactical versatility, the squad is equipped to handle the demands of La Liga. The presence of seasoned campaigners like Marcos Alonso and Javier Manquillo adds leadership and top-level experience, while younger players such as Carlos Domínguez and Sergio Carreira represent the future of the club. Each player brings a distinct skill set, contributing to the collective defensive solidity that Celta Vigo aims to maintain throughout the season. As the campaign progresses, this defensive lineup will play a crucial role in determining the club’s fortunes, ensuring stability at the back while supporting attacking transitions when needed.