The 2024/25 La Liga season has been nothing short of captivating, with Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atlético Madrid battling for the title. There is just a small point difference between the three clubs, and while the title race remains fierce, individual brilliance has lit up Spain’s top flight week after week. From breakout teenagers to experienced campaigners, these are the ten players who’ve made the biggest personal impression this season—not necessarily the most efficient statistically, but the ones who’ve stood out with presence, performance, and personality. Many big names in the league have been outshone, with better rankings and performances.
Jude Bellingham won the award last season after his incredible display, scoring 19 goals and providing six assists in 28 league games. This season, however, the spotlight has shifted to another talent, and that’s the intriguing part of this award. It’s always based on performance, stats, and the position of your club in the league.
Let’s start with the award favourite, counting down from 10 to 1.
10. Iñigo Martínez – FC Barcelona
A surprising name on this list, perhaps, but Iñigo Martínez has been quietly reliable at the back for Flick’s side. Even with young Pau Cubarsí excelling, Martínez has arguably been the best in his position. A leader many Barcelona fans believe should’ve been signed years earlier, he’s shown his class throughout the campaign. He has provided three assists in La Liga, is averaging 3.6 clearances per game, boasts a 65% aerial duel success rate, and brings calmness in possession with a 91% pass completion rate. With an average match rating of 7.41, he has been a smart, composed presence who’s helped steady a young backline.
9. Vinícius Jr. – Real Madrid
After losing the Ballon d’Or to Manchester City midfielder Rodri, Vinícius doesn’t quite look like the same player he was last season. Still, he remains one of La Liga’s most feared wingers. With 11 goals and 5 assists, his directness and flair have added width and unpredictability to Madrid’s front line. He has completed 66 successful dribbles in La Liga, created 45 chances, and holds an average rating of 7.50.
8. Álex Baena – Villarreal
One of the most underrated creators in Spain, Baena has quietly delivered an outstanding campaign. The 23-year-old has created the most chances in La Liga this season, with 84, and ranks third in the most big chances created, with 17. Playing predominantly on the left, his set-piece delivery and vision have been key to Villarreal’s attacking output. He is one of the most technically gifted players in the league.
7. Federico Valverde – Real Madrid
Valverde might not always light up the stat sheets, but his contribution to Real Madrid’s engine room is unmatched. He’s featured in nearly every match this season, completing over 90% of his passes, winning 62% of his tackles, and contributing 5 goals and 3 assists. His tireless work rate, tactical discipline, and ability to shift roles seamlessly make him one of the most dependable players in the league.
6. Jude Bellingham – Real Madrid
A strong season had some fans calling him one of the best midfielder in the world. Bellingham has scored 8 league goals and provided 7 assists, often operating in a more advanced role under Ancelotti. His late runs into the box, physicality, and composure under pressure have made him a fan favourite and a match-winner. He’s also won 59% of his duels, showing his all-around impact in midfield.
5. Robert Lewandowski – FC Barcelona
The Polish striker has had a top campaign compared to last season. He remains La Liga’s top scorer with 25 goals and 2 assists in the league. At 36, his movement and positional awareness remain elite. He’s averaged 3.5 shots per 90, and despite all this, he has still received some criticism from his own fans. However, his experience has been vital in tight matches, especially with a young supporting cast around him.
4. Pedri – FC Barcelona
Pedri is considered by many to be the best midfielder in the league, a class act in midfield, reminiscent of his idol, Andrés Iniesta. His ability to control tempo, pick passes in tight areas, and read the game is second to none among La Liga midfielders. He has contributed 4 goals and 4 assists, created 51 chances, completed 30 dribbles, and has an impressive 88% pass accuracy—crazy numbers for a midfielder. He is the only midfielder with such skills and stats, making him the best in his position.
3. Raphinha – FC Barcelona
Raphinha is having the best season of his career, and in La Liga, he has provided some impressive numbers. The Brazilian has contributed 13 goals and 8 assists, often stepping up in crucial games. His work rate down the right flank, coupled with defensive contributions, often goes under the radar. He has created 75 chances, second in the league, and 23 big chances, along with completing 42 dribbles. He is one of the top candidates for the award.
2. Kylian Mbappé – Real Madrid
Mbappé’s long-anticipated arrival at Real Madrid has lived up to the hype. Despite arriving in a star-studded squad, he’s quickly asserted himself with 33 goals and 5 assists in all competitions. 22 of those goals coming in La Liga, 2nd top scorer just 3 behind leader Robert Lewandowski, His chemistry with Vinícius and Bellingham has given Madrid a ruthless front line, and he’s averaging 4.6 shots per game — the most in the league. His pace, decision-making, and ability to find the net from anywhere make him a constant threat.
1. Lamine Yamal – FC Barcelona
At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal has emerged as one of La Liga’s most electrifying talents. The teenager has racked up 6 goals and 11 assists in the league so far, with the most assists in La Liga and second in the top five leagues. But it’s not just about the numbers. His composure in the final third, willingness to take on defenders, and sheer maturity have made him a must-watch every week. Yamal has completed the most successful dribbles in the top five leagues with 123. massive. He has created 51 chances, holds the most big chances in the league with 23, and has won 50 fouls in the league, the most by far, remarkable for a wide player of his age. He doesn’t just look like the future of Barcelona, he’s already their present. A top favourite for the award.
Stats from Sholy Nation Sport, SofaScore, and Fotmob.
