Rafael Marín Zamora

Rafa Marín, whose full name is Rafael Marín Zamora, is a Spanish centre-back born in Guadajoz in 2002. He developed with Alcolea and Centro Histórico before joining Real Madrid’s academy at 14. Marín progressed through Madrid’s youth ranks, helping the club win the 2020 UEFA Youth League, and became a regular for Real Madrid Castilla. After being unable to establish himself in Madrid’s senior team, he moved to Deportivo Alavés on loan for the 2023–24 season. The 1.91-metre defender made 33 La Liga appearances, gaining substantial top-flight experience. In 2024, he joined Napoli, adding Italian football to a career shaped in Spain. A tall, right-footed central defender, Rafa Marín is noted for clearances, aerial defending and safe distribution from the back.