Discover the top 5 underrated players lighting up La Liga in 2025. Learn how they impact the league despite being under the radar.
Top 5 Underrated Players in La Liga This Season
La Liga has long been home to some of the biggest football stars in history—Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Ronaldinho, and Zinedine Zidane, to name a few. But for every superstar, there are countless players whose brilliance goes unnoticed. These unsung heroes contribute week in and week out without the spotlight, yet their impact is crucial in shaping the narrative of Spain’s top football league.
The 2024/25 season has seen a number of low-key players deliver consistently excellent performances. While the likes of Jude Bellingham, Antoine Griezmann, and Robert Lewandowski dominate headlines, this MYBET88 article highlights five players who quietly make the difference for their clubs—and for La Liga.
Here are the top 5 underrated players in La Liga this season.
1. Isi Palazón – Rayo Vallecano
The Creative Engine of a Mid-Table Machine
Isi Palazón may not play for a European giant, but his role at Rayo Vallecano is indispensable. The 29-year-old winger has been the creative spark in a Rayo team that punches above its weight. With excellent dribbling, vision, and a lethal left foot, Palazón has contributed to over 10 goals this season between goals and assists.
What makes him underrated?
- Lack of media coverage due to playing at a smaller club.
- Overlooked in national team conversations despite consistent output.
- Provides versatility, often playing as a winger, attacking midfielder, or even wing-back.
Palazón’s work ethic and flair make Rayo one of the most watchable underdog teams in the league.
2. Aihen Muñoz – Real Sociedad
La Liga’s Most Reliable Left-Back?
While Real Sociedad’s youth academy is often lauded for producing stars like Mikel Oyarzabal and Martín Zubimendi, Aihen Muñoz often flies under the radar. The 26-year-old left-back has quietly become one of the most consistent defenders in Spain.
He excels in:
- Positioning and tactical discipline.
- Delivering accurate crosses into the box.
- Interceptions and recovery tackles in transition moments.
Muñoz rarely puts a foot wrong, and his ability to shut down opposing wingers has been pivotal in Sociedad’s European qualification chase. Yet, he rarely gets the praise he deserves.
3. Pepelu – Valencia CF
The Midfield Glue Valencia Needed
Valencia’s young and often chaotic squad has found stability this season, largely thanks to the arrival of Pepelu. Signed from Levante in 2023, the 25-year-old midfielder has quietly evolved into a metronome at the center of the park.
Key contributions include:
- Ball retention under pressure.
- Precise long-range passing and switches of play.
- Shielding the defense with intelligent positioning.
In a season where Valencia have surprised many with their cohesion, Pepelu is the heartbeat of their midfield. Without flashy highlights, he dictates tempo with elegance.
4. Iñaki Williams – Athletic Club
Still Delivering, Still Underrated
Though not entirely unknown, Iñaki Williams remains one of the most underappreciated strikers in Europe. Often recognized for his speed, few realize the tactical maturity he brings to Athletic Club’s frontline.
Highlights of his 2024/25 season:
- Double-digit goals and several key assists.
- Tireless pressing from the front.
- Versatility to play on the wing or centrally.
He may not grab global headlines like some of his contemporaries, but in terms of value to his team, Williams is absolutely vital for Athletic’s attacking identity.
5. Óscar Valentín – Rayo Vallecano
The Defensive Shield You Don’t Notice Until He’s Gone
Another Rayo Vallecano representative, Óscar Valentín, is the kind of midfielder who does the dirty work to let others shine. As a defensive midfielder, he breaks up play, screens the backline, and is essential in transitions.
What sets him apart:
- Strong tackling success rate.
- Intelligent positioning that prevents counterattacks.
- A leader on the pitch without wearing the armband.
Valentín rarely appears on stat sheets, but his impact is deeply felt by teammates and appreciated by tactical analysts who study the league.
Why Underrated Players Matter
Underrated players are often the glue that holds successful systems together. Their quiet excellence allows stars to shine while maintaining balance across the pitch. These players may not win Ballon d’Ors or dominate social media, but coaches, scouts, and true fans understand their value.
In a league full of global icons, these unsung heroes keep La Liga competitive, entertaining, and tactically rich.
Honorable Mentions
- Fran García (Real Madrid) – Often overshadowed but consistent when called upon.
- Luis Rioja (Alavés) – A hard-working winger who can win games on his own.
- Rubén Alcaraz (Cádiz) – Offers experience and tactical awareness to a relegation-threatened side.
Final Thoughts
As La Liga continues to evolve, it’s essential to recognize the players who don’t just entertain but also elevate the competitive level of the league. Whether it’s through leadership, tactical intelligence, or raw effort, these underrated talents deserve more spotlight.
The next time you watch a La Liga match, pay attention to the players working behind the scenes—the ones whose names might not trend, but whose performances keep the league thriving.
Support the game beyond the stars! Celebrate the depth and tactical brilliance of football by following and appreciating the unsung heroes of your favorite league. Every pass, tackle, and movement matters—especially from those who work tirelessly in the shadows.