The UEFA European Championship 2024 witnessed some of the best European talents in football. These tournaments often bring out the best from the players. Spain lifted the trophy after a 12-year wait. The young Spanish side conquered every team to end the tournament with a 100% record. Some young players were at the top of their game for Luis de la Fuente’s side. The likes of Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Dani Olmo carried the attack, while some other players impressed everyone with their displays on the defensive side.
Robin Le Normand was one such player. The 27-year-old defender was the backbone of the defence. His performances were so impressive that Atletico Madrid decided to sign the player from LaLiga rivals, Real Sociedad. Le Normand made over 150 league appearances for Sociedad since joining the first team in 2018. He will be a part of Diego Simeone’s side heading to an exciting 2024-25 season. Here is a look at what Atletico Madrid fans can expect from their new defender.
Leading Spain to European glory
Robin Le Normand was a part of Luis de la Fuente’s plans. He started the first two group games against Croatia and Italy. Spain kept two clean sheets but Le Normand received his first booking of the season. He then played the second half against Albania before lining up for Spain’s Round of 16 win against Georgia. Robin started against Germany in the quarter-final. His first-half booking forced the manager to withdraw him at the break. This also meant that the defender was suspended against France. Le Normand was impressive against England in the finals and registered his name in the history books.
The above visual shows that the defender performed defensive actions in crucial areas down the right side for Spain. He gave away a few fouls but conceded most of them outside the danger zone. Atletico Madrid are also a strong defensive side and their players play aggressive football.
UCL debut with Sociedad
After an impressive 2022-23 season, Real Sociedad played in the UEFA Champions League 2023-24. The Spanish side topped their group ahead of Inter Milan, Benfica and RB Salzburg. PSG ended their campaign in the Round of 16.
The Spanish defender played in seven UCL games and made 29 league appearances. Robin tends to give away fouls but his ability to win duels makes him a tough defender. He doesn’t let the attackers get past him that easily. The player has also shown versatility and can play on both sides.
Le Normand played a crucial role in taking Real Sociedad to European qualification for the upcoming season. The pizza chart shows that the defender was one of the best among other left centre-backs to win his aerial and defensive duels. Robin Le Normand likes to contest aerial duels. He is good in the air and can pose a threat during set plays.
This plot illustrates the centre-back’s ability to engage in and win defensive one-on-one situations. High values in both metrics suggest a reliable defender.
The first plot illustrates the centre-back’s ability to engage in and win defensive one-on-one situations. High values in both metrics suggest a reliable defender. The second plot measures a centre-back’s aerial presence and effectiveness, crucial for defending set pieces and crosses.
Robin Le Normand was one of the best performers in LaLiga. He was ranked in the top quadrant for his duels winning ability.
Spanish players are technically gifted when it comes to passing the ball. Robin Le Normand often looks for wide runners. Atletico Madrid are strong down the wings and these passes could help them in the attack.
Robin Le Normand is a strong addition to this Atletico Madrid side. The likes of Real Madrid and Barcelona already are proving to be strong contenders in the league. Simeone needs such players to take his side back to the top.
Visuals via TFA data viz engine