Koski's leap | OneFootball

The Finnish center-back has become a regular in defense for Quique Sánchez Flores, a rise built on his own hard work

His arrival in Vitoria was far from ideal for a new signing, as he came from Croatia carrying an injury. It was Quique who brought him back to life and gave him the chance to introduce himself at Mendizorroza as the player he is when Alavés were practically drowning.

Against Hansi Flick’s FC Barcelona, the Nordic defender showed he was up to the level of the competition, denying goals that day to a top-class striker like Robert Lewandowski and to Ferran Torres himself. A match in which the Babazorros managed to keep a clean sheet after 21 matchdays without doing so.

A much-needed rock at the back

The numbers speak for themselves and his progress has been more than remarkable. Koski is Alavés’ outfield player with the most minutes at the start of the season, excluding Sivera, with a total of 620 minutes. His presence in the starting lineup game after game reflects the trust placed in the young defender.

The reward for his performances is also thehonor of representing his national team. A dream every player hopes to fulfill. Last Saturday he played the first 45 minutes in Finland’s rout of San Marino, a match corresponding to the Nations League group stage.

That is why the accumulation of minutes is allowing him to mature as a player, making better and better decisions during matches both in playing out from the back and in aerial duels, where he stands out most. Alongside Tenaglia and Otto, they form one of the most reliable back threes inLa Liga.

Ville Koski is under contract until 2031, and the Babazorro fans are delighted to be able to enjoy this level from the Finn for many years to come.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇪🇸 here.