Mariano Pernía
For my money, the best leftback in Spain - certainly the player on form - is Getafe’s Mariano Pernía. The Argentinian has already scored seven goals this season; more than his counterpart at the Bernabéu and any other defender in the league. If you haven’t heard his name before, I can recommend this goal as a memory aid.
It was scored during a 5-0 demolition of Espanyol on 22nd January 2006. Make up your own mind about the distance - he was definitely outside the area!
Spanish national coach Luis Aragonés is following Pernía’s progress even though the object of his affection is Argentinian. Pernía has never played in blue and white, and because he has lived in Spain for four years, Aragonés will be able to select him if he is granted citizenship by his hosts.
Pernía has scored from a free-kick on four occasions this season. An end of season transfer to Valencia is rumoured to be on the cards.