LaLiga 2025

The 2025-26 Spanish season kicked off with Xabi Alonso set to reclaim the LaLiga title for Real Madrid. However, after the coach was dismissed mid-season, Hansi Flick’s Barcelona ended up defending their championship status, leaving Los Blancos looking for their second consecutive year without a major trophy.

As the season wraps up, it’s time to award the best player, coach, signing, and goal of the season, among others. ¡Vámonos!

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Player of the Season: Lamine Yamal, Barcelona

The 18-year-old prodigy from Barcelona and Spain has outshined everyone.

Facing triple-marking in numerous matches, he dealt with long absences from teammate Raphinha, overcame extensive groin pain while playing injured, and navigated a club-versus-country dispute, yet emerged as the league champions’ standout performer once again.

Lamine’s statistics are remarkable: 24 goals and 11 assists across all competitions—his best return in terms of minutes played. He is significantly ahead of what both Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo achieved at the same young age.

Messi netted eight goals and assisted five during his 25 games for Barcelona at 18, while Ronaldo only produced one goal and four assists in two half-seasons at Sporting CP and Manchester United.

Signs of leadership have started to show in Lamine. His incredible talent isn’t merely a product of coaching, analysis, or metrics; it’s a natural gift that enhances the joy of football. All hail Lamine Yamal.

Runners-up: Eric García, Barcelona (versatile player; consistently high performance); Vedat Muriqi, Mallorca (a phenomenal goal tally contesting top scorer Kylian Mbappé, showing off his exceptional talent.)

As a side note, I’ve always favored cleverness, teamwork, and precision over raw power. So, apologies to players like Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo García, but the accolades belong to Nico Williams. His stunning goal against Levante stands out, especially considering he played through a significant injury.

In the match at Estadi Ciutat de València, while Levante pressured Athletic in their penalty area, a series of intricate passes led to a breakaway for Athletic. Nico elegantly lobbed the ball over the goalkeeper, securing the goal with brilliant teamwork and speed.

Runners-up: Arda Güler, Real Madrid (a breathtaking lob from deep); Adam Boayar, Elche (a sensational overhead kick goal).

Swedberg’s performance during Celta’s win over Madrid was mesmerizing. Entering at halftime, he played a pivotal role, scoring twice while displaying nonchalant elegance. His first goal underscored Madrid’s vulnerability, and his second left players like Antonio Rüdiger bewildered.

Runners-up: Vedat Muriqi, Mallorca (hat trick); Ferran Torres, Barcelona (hat trick in December).

Rookie of the Season: Víctor Muñoz, Osasuna

Eligible freshmen are players under 23 who complete their first LaLiga season with at least 1,500 minutes.

For any football fan, Víctor Muñoz is the obvious choice. The 22-year-old made his LaLiga debut this season and was a game-changer for Osasuna.

Despite training with both Barcelona and Real Madrid academies, neither club recognized his potential — had they done so, he could have contributed significantly to their first teams.

Representing Osasuna, Muñoz was instrumental, directly contributing to ten goals in his debut season. It’s only fair that he earned a spot in Luis De La Fuente’s World Cup squad.

Muñoz remarked: “Shifting from Real Madrid was challenging at first due to interest from multiple clubs. But Osasuna prioritized me, and their confidence has helped me grow as a player.”

Osasuna lost only five of the 20 matches he played, while his absence saw them lose all three matches; his dynamic play and potent shot have been invaluable, making him a player to watch.

This category is incredibly competitive; others like Alejandro Rego (Athletic) and Marc Pubill (among others) also made strong cases but didn’t meet the required minutes.

Runners-up: Carlos Espí (Levante, limited minutes but impactful) and Renato Veiga (solid debut year with Villarreal).

Signing of the Season: Joan García, Barcelona

After a stellar rookie campaign, García has established himself as an invaluable asset for Barcelona. Following his acquisition for a modest €25 million, his market value has skyrocketed, potentially exceeding €60 million now.

Having joined from local rivals Espanyol, García has thrived under pressure, exhibiting remarkable versatility and skill in goal. By the season’s end, he had secured 15 clean sheets with just 21 goals conceded across 30 LaLiga matches.

García’s remarkable awareness and quick saving abilities distinguish him from conventional goalkeepers. His standout moment came during the Catalan derby, where his clever play prevented a follow-up shot from reaching the goal—an impressive display of judgment.

This agile keeper stands apart from the likes of Ederson or Thibaut Courtois, evoking memories of Iker Casillas’ unique style — leading to expectations of a successful World Cup.

Runners-up: Ademola Lookman, Atlético Madrid (an astute signing); Gonçalo Guedes, Real Sociedad (for €4 million, a tremendous bargain).

Most Improved Player: Alberto Moleiro, Villarreal

Watching a promising talent mature is one of football’s great joys, and Alberto Moleiro’s journey exemplifies this growth.

While he shone at Las Palmas, he faced a new level of scrutiny at Villarreal, successfully contributing to their Champions League campaign and helping secure a spot for the coming season.

Moleiro’s numbers – 10 goals and six assists – are impressive, but his delightful passing, balance, and decision-making elevate his game further. His manager praised his ability to adapt and thrive under pressure.

“At Las Palmas, he was the star and has stepped into a demanding new system and overcome all those obstacles,” noted his coach. “His progress is evident, not just with goals but in his overall game.”

Runners-Up: Marcos Llorente (full of energy and form) and Giuliano Simeone (exceptional pace and competitive spirit).

Top Teams: Barcelona and Rayo Vallecano

These two clubs have performed exceptionally. Barcelona remains buoyant despite financial trials, fielding a talented squad and an evolving tactical approach. Meanwhile, Rayo’s remarkable season, including a potential UEFA final, underscores their diligent effort.

Runners-up: Real Betis (consistently qualifying for UEFA competitions) and Villarreal (overcoming mid-season turmoil to secure a Champions League berth).

Teams to Critique: Real Oviedo and Real Madrid

Unfortunately, Oviedo struggled in the top division this season, suffering from mismanagement and dwindling confidence. Similarly, Madrid faced its own challenges, marked by a decline in performance, infighting among players, and poor decision-making from the board.

Runners-up: Mallorca (talented squad yet underperforming) and Girona (accused of rash decisions by offloading key players).

Manager of the Season: Iñigo Pérez, Rayo Vallecano

Despite strong competition, Pérez earns this prestigious award. In his first full season, he successfully managed a talented squad while navigating significant constraints, propelling Rayo towards its first UEFA final.

Pérez quickly captured the hearts of fans and players alike amid some internal strife. His team’s clear identity and exciting gameplay led them safely away from relegation and into the European spotlight.

As stated by his players, he possesses remarkable tactical awareness and has already shown potential for further success in his coaching career.

Runners-up: Hansi Flick (with notable improvements domestically) and Luis Castro (revitalizing Levante’s fortunes).