Álvaro Mantilla

Reliable defensive option

Mantilla delivered a solid campaign for Racing Santander in La Liga2, making 29 appearances and contributing two goals and two assists alongside 41 tackles and 21 interceptions across 2,243 minutes of action.

Analysis: Mantilla was a reliable and consistent presence throughout the promotion campaign, capable of operating at both right-back and center-back, giving the coaching staff valuable defensive versatility across a demanding season. His 41 tackles and 21 interceptions underline his defensive work rate and ability to read dangerous situations, making him a dependable option in a backline that needed to remain organized throughout. The step up to La Liga will test his defensive capabilities against higher quality opposition, but his consistent performances and positional flexibility give Racing confidence that he can contribute meaningfully in the top flight next season.