The country of Spain has a long, storied tradition when it comes to football. They house some of the most dominant clubs in all the world. With that greatness on the domestic scale comes an expectation of success on the international stage. However, the Spanish national side has struggled under those weighty domestic pressures. Besides their success in the 2010 World Cup, where they were crowned champions, La Roja, haven’t found much success internationally.
Despite having stars like Raul, David Villa, and Xavi throughout the years, Spain has only been able to claim football’s greatest prize once. However, there is reason for optimism for Spaniards. The next generation always brings hope and excitement to the fans and this group is no different.
Much of the attention is given to the young talent in La Liga like Marco Asensio, Álvaro Odriozola, and Ferran Torres. But let’s not forget the other divisions in Spain! The Segunda Division has it’s own young talent to showcase, Spanish or not it deserves recognition. Let’s look at the top 5 wonder-kids in Spain’s Segunda Division!
Javier Ontiveros, Winger, Malaga CF
Having been part of the Malaga side that was relegated to the Segunda Division last season, Ontiveros will be stuck there for another year after losing in the promotion playoff. Unless another team comes calling of course. The young Spaniard enjoyed a solid season with Malaga last season, tallying 5 goals and 4 assists from the right wing. Fast and skillful, Ontiveros was hailed by many as Malaga’s best player last season as he helped lead them to a third place finish.
TransferMarkt Value: €2.5 million
Andrés Martín, Winger, Córdoba CF
One of the lone bright spots for Córdoba this past season, Martín is drawing attention from numerous big clubs. As a 19 year old, Martín scored 6 goals and also added 4 assists to his name. Primarily a winger, Martín can also play up top. His versatility and pace have drawn the attention of a wide range of clubs. Martín has been tied to Barcelona, Real Madrid, and… Aston Villa. Yes, Premier League “giants” Aston Villa are looking to go toe to toe with the Spanish giants for Martín’s signature.
TransferMarkt Value: €300 thousand (I can personally guarantee he will sell for far more!)
Alberto Soro, Attacking Midfielder, Real Zaragoza
At 20 years old, Soro is just starting to make a name for himself at Zaragoza. The youngster from Spain featured in 29 matches for his side this past year. During those 29 matches, many of which he was a sub, he notched a pair of goals and assists. Rumor has it that Real Madrid are monitoring Soro and with the promise he’s showing as a playmaker, it is easy to see why. Will Soro make the move to the Bernabeu this summer? Real have already shown that money is no object!
TransferMarkt Value: €2.5 million
Nacho Méndez, Midfielder, Sporting Gijon
Our third Spaniard on the list, Mendez operates out of the central midfield for his club, Sporting Gijon. In 31 leauge matches this past season, he registered two goals and three assists in a deeper role. With solid physical tools and distribution abilities, Mendez looks like another bright, tiki-taka midfielder for La Roja. Expect Mendez to play a vital role for Gijon next year.
TransferMarkt Value: €800 thousand
Eduardo Expósito, Midfielder, Deportivo La Coruna
Rounding out the top 5 list is Spanish midfielder Eduardo Expósito. The 22 year old appeared in 35 matches for his club, Deportivo La Coruna. His quality play (2 goals and 3 assists) has gotten Coruna to the promotion playoffs where they will face Mallorca. An incredibly gifted technical player, “Edu” has drawn many admirers with his exceptional play this season. If he can drive his team into La Liga, he may finally get the recognition he deserves.