In the world of football, defenders are often judged by their ability to prevent goals rather than score them. Their primary responsibility is to organize the backline, intercept dangerous plays, and provide cover when the midfield is overrun. Whether it be from set-pieces, penalties, or a thunderous strike from long range, these goal-scoring defenders have left an indelible mark on the game. Without further ado, Win tips delve deep into the stories and stats of the 5 top scoring defenders in Premier League history- those who didn’t just stop goals, but scored them too.
5 top scoring defenders in La Liga with the most goals
Without further ado, let’s have a look at the 5 top scoring defenders in La Liga:
5. Aitor Larrazábal – 38 goals
A true one-club man, Aitor Larrazábal spent his entire professional career at Athletic Bilbao. Born and raised in Bilbao, he joined the club's academy and, after a season with Bilbao B, was promoted to the senior team.
Operating mainly as a left-back, Larrazábal made a whopping 390 LaLiga appearances between 1990 and 2004. Despite being a defender, he had an eye for goal and managed to score an impressive 38 goals during his time in the league.
After hanging up his boots, Larrazábal went into management, most recently coaching fourth-tier side Gernika Club.
4. Roberto Carlos – 53 goals
One of the most iconic left-backs in football history, Brazilian legend Roberto Carlos lit up LaLiga during his time at Real Madrid. Originally signed by Inter Milan from Palmeiras, Carlos wasn’t played in his preferred role in Italy. Fortunately for Los Blancos, they seized the opportunity to bring him to Spain in 1996, thanks to then-manager Fabio Capello.
Carlos went on to become a Madrid legend, playing 11 seasons at the Santiago Bernabéu. Known for his blistering pace and thunderous left foot, he scored 53 LaLiga goals - a remarkable feat for a defender.
3. Ronald Koeman – 67 goals
Before Roberto Carlos arrived in Spain, another prolific defender had already left his mark. Dutch international Ronald Koeman was a major force for FC Barcelona from 1989 to 1995. Signed from PSV Eindhoven, Koeman was known for his powerful right foot and deadly accuracy on set pieces.
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As a central defender, his ability to score from free-kicks and long-range efforts was unmatched. In his six seasons in LaLiga, Koeman netted an astonishing 67 goals - a tally many strikers would envy.
2. Sergio Ramos – 74 goals
The only active player on this list, Sergio Ramos is a modern-day defensive titan. Having come through the ranks at Sevilla FC, Ramos made his LaLiga debut in 2004 before Real Madrid snapped him up a year later for €27 million - then a record fee for a Spanish defender.
Initially a right-back, Ramos transitioned to centre-back from the 2009-10 season following an injury to Pepe. His transformation was seamless, and he became a cornerstone of Madrid’s defense for over a decade. Renowned for his leadership, aggressive play, and aerial prowess, Ramos has scored 74 goals in LaLiga and recently returned to Sevilla, aiming to add a few more to his tally.
1. Fernando Hierro – 105 goals
Topping the list is Fernando Hierro - a legendary figure in Spanish football. A product of Real Valladolid’s youth system, Hierro started modestly, scoring just three goals across two seasons with the first team. But it was his move to Real Madrid in 1989 that unlocked his full potential.
In 14 years with Los Blancos, Hierro scored an astonishing 102 LaLiga goals. Add the three he scored with Valladolid, and he ends up with 105 goals - the highest ever for a defender in LaLiga history.
When Ramos joined Real Madrid, he inherited Hierro’s iconic No. 4 jersey - and while Ramos has come close, he still has some way to go if he hopes to match or surpass Hierro’s historic goal tally.
In summary
The list of the 5 top scoring defenders in La Liga with the most goals stands as a testament to their extraordinary versatility and lasting legacy in Spanish football. In a league known for its flair and attacking brilliance, these defenders broke the mold by making their mark not just at the back but also in front of the goal. From thundering free-kicks to crucial headers, their contributions have shaped the course of many memorable matches.
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