Jordi Alba

Sport: Soccer

Nation: Spain

DOB: March 21, 1989

Career Highlights: A rising star for Spain, Alba is already having an outstanding summer, helping the full national team win the European Championship as it became the first squad to win three consecutive major tournaments. He scored his first goal for Spain in a 4-0 win over Italy in the final, racing up the left wing and through the defense before beating the goalkeeper one-on-one. That dazzling effort displayed why Alba is considered one of the best young defenders in the world, and came three days after he joined Barcelona for a transfer fee of more than $17 million from Valencia. His skill on the ball and offensive ability also make him capable of playing midfield. Despite being a force going forward, Alba struggles in the defensive end and can be a liability at times. His initial instinct is to attack, and that may leave Spain's defense prone to a counter. Still, the team's ability to play a possession game with its renowned "Tiki-taka" style should only lend to Alba's strengths as a great passer with superb vision.

Olympic History: None