Ranking the 10 best players in La Liga this year (2021)

Real Madrid youngster Vinicius Junior has become something of a poster boy for La Liga after an impressive 2021. After joining Real Madrid for the handsome sum of €45 million as a 17-year-old in 2018, it took the Brazilian nearly three years to blossom beautifully.

Vinicius Junior has contributed 11 goals and eight assists in La Liga this year and is currently one of the best wingers in world football. The youngster has developed a brilliant understanding with club captain Karim Benzema at Real Madrid.

The dynamic duo have fired Real Madrid to the top of La Liga as they look to regain the league title from their neighbors, Atletico Madrid.

#6 Toni Kroos

Peerless German midfield maestro Toni Kroos remains a master of the game despite his advancing years. The Real Madrid star continues to display his genius every year for Los Blancos. The 31-year-old played 26 times in La Liga for Real Madrid in 2021 and contributed four goals and 12 assists.

As a leader in an increasingly youthful Real Madrid side, Kroos has embraced his leadership role and led the team with his performances on the pitch. The Germany international helped Real Madrid reach the semifinals of the UEFA Champions League in 2021 before they lost to eventual winners Chelsea.

Take a look at Toni Kroos' Wife, Jessica Kroos. Get to know her profession, background and relationship with the footballer.

#5 Jules Kounde

French defender Jules Kounde had a breakout year in 2021. The young central defender made 39 La Liga appearances for Sevilla and became an important member of their starting eleven. When he played, Kounde helped Sevilla keep 19 clean sheets in La Liga in 2021.

The 23-year-old earned a place in the French Euro 2020 squad following club-level form. Kounde was the subject of a protracted transfer negotiation involving Chelsea, but the proposed deal fell through at the last minute.

The talented defender will move to a bigger club soon enough, considering his performance levels and output.

#4 Gerard Moreno

Spanish international striker Gerard Moreno has become an absolute menace to clubs in La Liga over the past 12 months. The Villarreal ace made 28 appearances for the Yellow Submarine in La Liga in 2021 and contributed 21 goals and seven assists.

Moreno finished as top scorer and Player of the Year in the UEFA Europa League as Villarreal claimed the title. The 29-year-old striker was part of the Spanish national team that crashed out of the semifinals of Euro 2020.

About the author

Sulayman is a European and international football writer at Sportskeeda covering news and transfer rumors. He has an overall experience of 4 years, having previously worked at the likes of SportsRation and ExtraTimeTalk. His tryst with the sport happened at a young age, playing it at home and watching the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

Sulayman has a good feel for the game, which is reflected in his descriptive articles. He double checks information via multiple sources for accuracy, and only uses top-tier platforms like Transfermarkt and Opta for statistical information. His experience and exploits in the industry have led Sulayman to cover the Nigerian Professional League for three years along with games involving the Nigerian national team. He has also worked in F1, joining hands with industry veterans to provide a smooth viewing experience in Nigeria.

Sulayman hails Lionel Messi as the one true GOAT, and his brace in Argentina’s 2005 U20 FIFA World Cup final win over Nigeria left a lasting impact on him. He also supports Chelsea at club level, having followed their dominance under Jose Mourinho. Sulayman also follows other leagues with Nigerian players like Eredivisie, Saudi Pro League, Turkish Super Lig, and more. When not writing, he enjoys cooking and eating.

Know More

Ranking the 10 best players in La Liga this year (2021)

#7 Vinicius Junior

#6 Toni Kroos

#5 Jules Kounde

#4 Gerard Moreno