Despite the evolution of player positions in the game of football over the past few years, the midfield remains arguably the most important position of them all.
Being a midfielder entails a huge responsibility, not only to record goals and assists but also to dictate the tempo and control the game. And since you’re in the middle of where the action is, you cannot afford to take a play off.
La Liga is known for being home to some of the best midfielders in the world, from young to old, and this season is no exception.
So, who are these on-the-pitch generals who have stood out so far this campaign? Continue reading below as SBOTOP lists the four midfielders who have caught our eye thus far.
Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid
The obvious answer to the question earlier is Jude Bellingham, as he’s enjoying his first full season at the Bernabeu. He is currently leading the team with 20 goals and six assists this season, but his impact for Los Blancos goes beyond the stats.
In a midfield already with the likes of Aurelien Tchouameni, Fede Valverde, Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, and Eduardo Camavinga, Bellingham has cemented his place in the starting XI because of his calmness with the ball and elite technical skill.
However, don’t let his smile fool you, as he’s also a combative presence there. Bellingham is not afraid to mix it up against the best of them, which was evident when he was given his marching orders for dissent last time out against Valencia in a 2-2 draw.
Real Madrid will surely miss Jude Bellingham in the next few games, but at least he can get to recharge his batteries as the team continues their title push this term.
Ilkay Gundogan, Barcelona
Like Real Madrid, Barcelona have a great crop of midfielders to choose from, but in this list, I am picking Ilkay Gundogan, mainly because of his consistency.
Youngsters Gavi and Pedri have missed games due to injuries this season, but Gundogan has always been available for Xavi and co. The former Manchester City star is the team’s top playmaker this season, with five goals and nine assists.
With Frenkie de Jong expected to be sidelined for a couple of weeks, Gundogan will have a more pivotal role under Xavi’s tactics.
But while Gundogan is known more for his passing, his goal scoring should not be overlooked. Among midfielders this season, the 33-year-old German international is in the 99th percentile in xAG (0.29 per 90), the 94th percentile in non-penalty goals (0.23), and the 93rd percentile in shot-creating actions (4.18 per 90).
Considering he arrived for free last year, that’s a huge bonus for the Catalan giants, who continue to deal with major financial constraints.
Isco, Real Betis
Before this season, it felt like Isco’s football career was going to come to a premature end after he was released by Sevilla and was out of action for more than a year. However, he has found his new home at Real Betis because the team took a chance on him.
This season, the 31-year-old is the team’s leading scorer with seven goals and five assists. With him at the forefront, Real Betis are in the European mix, occupying the sixth spot with 42 points.
Given his influence within the team, it’s no wonder that Los Verdiblancos lost to Atleti last time out because Isco was absent due to injury.
Because of his fine performances this season, Isco’s one-year trial with Real Betis has turned into a multi-year contract that will extend to June 2027.
Brais Mendez, Real Sociedad
Brais Mendez has become a key player for Real Sociedad since joining from Celta Vigo in 2022. With seven goals and four assists in all competitions this season, the 27-year-old attacking midfielder has become La Real’s second-leading scorer behind Mikel Oyarzabal.
Three of those goals have come in the Champions League, making him a key reason why they’re in the Round of 16 for only the second time in their history.
Mendez is so good that La Real put a €60 million release clause on his current contract, and teams like Tottenham were willing to spend that much to try and pry him away last winter transfer window.
It’s a good thing for Real Sociedad that they managed to keep hold of Brais Mandez since he tilts the La Liga 2024 odds in their favour to qualify for Europe next season, although they need to improve their La Liga 2024 results fast.
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