# Atletico Madrid Star Alvaro Morata Leads La Liga With Record-Tackling Performance
**Atletico Madrid star Alvaro Morata has made a remarkable impact on the pitch this season, not only with his goal-scoring ability but also with his defensive contributions.** The striker has taken the league by storm, leading the way in tackles with an impressive 155 tackles made in just 22 games. This statistic not only highlights his physicality and work rate but also underscores his role as a key asset in Diego Simeone’s tactical system.
Morata’s ability to track back and defend has been a cornerstone of Atletico’s defensive stability this season. While many might associate central strikers with goals and assists, Morata has proven that he is equally capable of making an impact in defensive zones. His relentless energy and awareness of the game have allowed him to break up opposition plays and recover quickly to contribute offensively.
The 27-year-old’s defensive contributions are not just about the numbers. His positioning and timing in tackles have often nullified opponents’ attacking threats, which is a testament to his tactical intelligence and discipline. Morata’s ability to read the game has made him a nightmare for defenders, as he consistently finds himself in positions where he can disrupt the opposition’s build-up play.
To put his performance into context, Morata’s 155 tackles in 22 games average out to nearly seven tackles per game. This is a remarkable feat, especially considering the physical demands of the game and the fact that central strikers are not traditionally known for their defensive work rates. For reference, the average number of tackles a La Liga striker makes in a season is around 50, making Morata’s achievement all the more impressive.
Manager Diego Simeone has praised Morata’s all-around game,Serie A Stadium stating that his ability to contribute defensively has been “incredible” and that he is “redefining what a striker can do.” Morata’s work ethic and dedication have also earned him the respect of his teammates and opponents, with many noting his selflessness in tracking back to help the team defensively.
While Morata’s tackling stats are certainly eye-catching, it’s important to note that his defensive contributions are not isolated incidents. He consistently applies pressure to the opposition’s midfield and defensive lines, which has a cumulative effect on the game. His ability to cover ground and intercept passes has been a game-changer for Atletico, especially in tight matches where every action counts.
Looking ahead, Morata’s performances this season are likely to have a significant impact on Atletico’s campaign. His dual ability to score and defend has given the team a unique dynamic, making them more versatile and difficult to play against. As the season progresses, it will be fascinating to see if Morata can maintain this level of performance and continue to lead by example for his team.
In conclusion, Alvaro Morata’s remarkable tackling stats are not just numbers on a scoreboard—they represent his unwavering commitment to the game and his role as a key player in Atletico Madrid’s success. His ability to seamlessly transition between attack and defense has made him one of the most complete strikers in La Liga, and his influence on the team has been nothing short of inspirational.