The 2025/26 La Liga season officially kicks off on August 15th, local time in Spain, and players from all 20 participating teams are currently preparing intensively. This season promises to be an exciting one: some players have already established themselves in the league, while others are eager for a breakthrough. Here are five young players with the potential to make a big leap in the new season.
• Arda Güler (Real Madrid)
The Blancos signed this talented young player from Turkish Super League side Fenerbahçe in the summer of 2023, but Güler's Real Madrid career hasn't gotten off to a smooth start. In two seasons under Ancelotti, the Turkish international made 38 league appearances, 18 of which were starts, and scored nine goals. With Alonso taking over as head coach this summer, the 20-year-old midfielder is expected to receive more playing time. Alonso stated, "Helping Güler grow is a process that requires patience and time. He's performing well, and we will continue to push him forward. We hope he'll gain experience, mature, and be willing to make mistakes. Only by constantly learning from his mistakes can he truly become stronger."
• Julen Aguirrezabala (Valencia)
A graduate of Athletic Bilbao's renowned Lezama youth academy, Aguirrezabala has been loaned to Valencia for the new season. The 24-year-old goalkeeper was a key player in Athletic Bilbao's Copa del Rey victory in the 2023/24 season, demonstrating reliable performance. However, with Spanish international Unai Simon firmly established as Athletic Bilbao's number one goalkeeper, Aguirrezabala opted to move to Valencia for more starting opportunities this season. With 30 La Liga appearances under his belt, Aguirrezabala has proven his ability to thrive at the highest level. Under the coaching of Corberán, the Basque goalkeeper is poised for a truly remarkable rise at the Mestalla.
• Alberto Moreiro (Villarreal)
After a solid season at Las Palmas, Moreiro signed a five-year contract with Villarreal in June. The right-footed midfielder has drawn attention for his creativity and ability to dribble past defenses. A product of Las Palmas' youth academy, Moreiro played 35 league games last season, scoring six goals and providing one assist. He has made 147 appearances for the first team in his career. With Villarreal midfielder Baena moving to Atletico Madrid, the 21-year-old could become a key player in Villarreal's midfield under Marcelino.
• Gonzalo García (Real Madrid)
When it comes to breaking down dense defenses, Real Madrid's youth academy player, La Fabrica, may have provided the team with a promising solution. Despite their formidable attacking firepower last season, the Galácticos lacked a center forward capable of scoring and finishing in the penalty area to break down opposing defenses. This role may now be filled by Gonzalo García, a Real Madrid academy graduate. The 21-year-old forward impressed at the 2025 Club World Cup, winning the Golden Boot with four goals in six matches. He also seized the opportunity to shine when Kylian Mbappé missed the group stage due to illness, earning Alonso's trust and a place in the first-team squad. Although he has only made five La Liga appearances, he will have the opportunity to see more playing time this season, showcasing his potential.
• Marc Poubier (Atlético Madrid)
Atlético Madrid has brought in several young talents as part of its rebuilding efforts, including right-back Poubier. The youngster signed a five-year contract with the club after joining from Segunda División side Almeria. Pobil played for Spain at the U21 European Championship this summer and was a key player. To date, he has made 34 top-flight appearances for Almeria and Levante. In the 2024/25 season, Pobil provided four assists for Almeria and helped them reach the promotion play-offs, attracting interest from several European clubs. Pobil is considered one of the best full-backs in Spain's second tier, and now, with the Rossoneri, he has the opportunity to continue his impressive form in La Liga.