Transforming today's prodigies into tomorrow's icons!
Top 5 Youngsters To Watch Out For This Season in the La Liga
La Liga has always been a stage for young, exciting talent to emerge, and the 2024/25 season is no different.
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From wonder kids already making headlines to rising stars on the verge of greatness, this season is primed to be a showcase for the next generation.
With the pressure to perform in one of the world’s most competitive leagues, these young players are ready to seize their moment and prove they belong on football’s biggest stage. Let’s dive into their stories and why they’re worth keeping an eye on.
#1 Lamine Yamal
Position : Right Winger
Club : Barcelona
Age : 16
The Journey
Yamal broke into Barcelona's first team last season, stunning with his technical ability and maturity despite his young age. Now, as he steps into his second season, he’s expected to play a more significant role in Barça's attack.
Why He's Special
Yamal’s vision and ability to take on defenders make him a natural winger. Last season, he averaged 3.25 dribbles per 90 minutes and had an impressive 81% pass accuracy. Additionally, he has created 1 chance per game this season, showing his knack for unlocking defences and providing key assists.
#2 Unai GĂłmez
Position : Central Midfielder
Club : Athletic Bilbao
Age : 20
The Journey
Gómez has worked his way through Bilbao’s famed youth system and is now emerging as a
crucial player in their midfield. His tactical intelligence and composure on the ball have
impressed many in La Liga.
Why He's Special
Unai GĂłmez is known for his excellent passing range, completing 90% of his passes on average and an average of 14.75 passes per 90 minutes in the 2024/25 La Liga season. He also contributes defensively averaging 2.95 fouls per 90 minutes and tends to be involved in ground duels, winning 4.43 out of 13.28 duels per 90 minutes.
#3 Alejandro Balde
Position : Left Back
Club : Barcelona
Age : 20
The Journey
After breaking into the first team last season, Balde has made the left-back position his own at Barcelona. His relentless work rate and ability to contribute offensively make him crucial to the team’s setup.
Why He's Special
Balde offers a dual-threat with his attacking and defensive contributions. He provided 5 assists last season and averaged 1.5 key passes per 90 minutes. Defensively, he made 2.1 tackles and 1.6 clearances per game, showcasing his balance between defence and attack.
#4 Ander Barrenetxea
Position : Winger
Club : Real Sociedad
Age : 21
The Journey
Barrenetxea has steadily developed at Real Sociedad, becoming a key player in their attacking setup. Known for his dribbling skills and tactical awareness, Barrenetxea has continued to improve his all-around game, making him an exciting player to watch in the 2024/25 season.
Why He's Special
Barrenetxea is an offensive asset, averaging 2.34 successful dribbles and 1.31 key passes
per game. He also has a sharp eye for goal, registering 4 goals and 1 assist last season. His work rate is evident in his ability to press high and contribute defensively as well.
#5 Pablo Barrios
Position : Central Midfielder
Club : Atlético Madrid
Age : 20
The Journey
Barrios has been a standout for Atlético Madrid, rising quickly through the ranks to become a key figure in Diego Simeone’s midfield. His ability to win the ball and transition quickly into attack has earned him plaudits from both fans and pundits alike.
Why He's Special
Barrios is a balanced midfielder who excels in both attack and defence. He averaged 1.5 interceptions and 2.5 tackles per 90 minutes last season, while also contributing 2 key passes per game. His ability to connect play and press high up the field makes him
indispensable to Atlético’s pressing system.
The Next Wave of La Liga Stars
La Liga’s rich history of developing young talent is in safe hands with this new generation. Each of these players brings something special to their teams:
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● Yamal’s raw potential and flair could electrify Barcelona’s attack.
● Gómez’s midfield intelligence and passing range make him a pivotal player for Bilbao.
● Balde’s blend of defensive solidity and offensive threat marks him as a key player for Barcelona.
● Barrenetxea’s dynamic performances can elevate Real Sociedad’s chances this season.
● Barrios’s box-to-box energy could drive Atlético Madrid to success.
These players have already shown that age is no barrier to success. Their skills, intelligence, and determination speak of perseverance and a hunger to prove themselves on the big stage. As they step into their roles, they’ll not only be aiming to secure spots in their teams but to inspire the next wave of football talent around the world.
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This season isn’t just about goals or victories—it’s about watching these rising stars write their own footballing stories. Will Yamal’s wizardry set Barcelona alight? Can Güler’s creativity unlock defences across Spain? Will Balde cement himself as Barcelona’s go-to left-back? Might Kubo lead Real Sociedad to glory? Could Barrios be the midfield general Atlético needs?
One thing is certain: these players are ready to make this La Liga season unforgettable. So, get ready for a thrilling ride filled with passion, moments of brilliance, and the emergence of new footballing heroes. Who’s your pick for the breakout star of the season?
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Let the discussions begin, and enjoy what promises to be a spectacular La Liga Campaign.