1) Saul Niguez – Atletico Madrid
Perhaps the pick of the bunch – and that takes some doing – Saul Niguez should play a pivotal role in Atletico Madrid’s season this year. At just 19-years-old, the central midfielder, who can also deputise at the back, was very impressive under Paco Jemez at Rayo Vallecano last year, earning him a call back to the reigning champions.
Saul made his debut at the tender age of 17 but he is an entirely different and more mature player now. He’s everything you would expect in a Spanish midfielder with regards to his technique on the ball and his passing, but what really sets Saul apart is his tenacity. He’s not one to shy away from contact and this combination of skill and steel will be valuable for Los Colchoneros. Atletico are serious about keeping him too – Saulrecently signed a contract extension until 2018 that includes a £19.5m buyout clause
2) Fede Caratbia- Valencia
The tricky, diminutive Argentine winger will spend the season on loan at newly-promoted Cordoba where he should get plenty of playing time. Fede, as he’s been dubbed, is yet another alumnus of the highly-vaunted Valencia youth setup. He made 24 appearances last season in all competitions, a number that will surely rise at Cordoba this campaign.
Reminiscent of another Valencia winger, Pablo Piatti, Fede’s low centre of gravity and quick changes of direction make him a nightmare for defenders. Surprisingly, Valencia have given Cordoba an option to purchase at the end of the season though if his performances are up to par, it would take a lot to pry him away from the Mestalla.
3) Joseba Zaldua – Real Sociedad
The recently-turned 22-year-old may be the most ready player on this list. Like Ruben Pardo, he’s a product of La Real’s talent factory and should play a major role for them this upcoming season. He’s made only 10 professional appearances in his career but when he plays he gives off the air of someone much more experienced.
Zaluda is smart defender, not prone to mistakes and tidy at the back. Most of all he displays impressive discipline in the right-back position for his age. He’s also a pretty complete player – there are no glaring weaknesses in his game and he is surprisingly good in the air despite his height. Sociedad had to fend off interest from Arsenal to keep hold of him this summer and the fans will likely be thanking them for it at the end of the season.
Part one can be found here.
