Spanish football’s biggest stars have played key roles in the first half of the 2025/26 LaLiga title race, shaping the battle for the championship, Idman.Biz reports.
At the midway point of the season, it comes as no surprise to see Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid occupying the top positions in the standings. All three clubs boast players capable of deciding the outcome of matches almost every week.
Alongside the most high-profile names, several less-heralded players have also stood out with their individual performances across the first 18 rounds of the season. Underrated defenders, an unexpected midfield standout, and a clear first-choice goalkeeper have earned places in the best XI so far.
According to Sports Illustrated, the LaLiga Team of the Season for 2025/26 to date is as follows:
Goalkeeper: Marko Dmitrovic (Espanyol) – One of the main reasons the Catalan club sits fifth in the table. He has kept seven clean sheets, with a save percentage of 76.7, surpassing Thibaut Courtois’ 71.9.
Right-back: Marcos Llorente (Atletico Madrid) – A key figure for Diego Simeone thanks to his pace, endurance, and three assists.
Center-back: Rafa Marin (Villarreal) – Anchors the league’s strongest defense with just 15 goals conceded, dominates in aerial duels, and stands out for his discipline.
Center-back: Eric Garcia (Barcelona) – Brought stability during a difficult defensive period, impressing with his versatility and leadership.
Left-back: Alvaro Carreras (Real Madrid) – At 22, has adapted quickly to the first team, adding both defensive solidity and attacking dynamism.
Central midfielder: Pedri (Barcelona) – Widely regarded as the league’s best midfielder in terms of technique, game intelligence, and tempo control.
Central midfielder: Luis Milla (Getafe) – Second in the league for assists with six, dictating his team’s rhythm.
Attacking midfielder: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid) – Four goals and three assists in just 11 starts, repeatedly helping his team turn games around.
Right winger: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona) – One of the league’s most productive players with seven goals and seven assists.
Striker: Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid) – Leads the Pichichi race with 18 goals and remains LaLiga’s most dangerous scorer.
Left winger: Ferran Torres (Barcelona) – Scored 11 goals in 17 matches and currently sits second in the Pichichi standings.
As a result, players from Barcelona and Real Madrid dominate Sports Illustrated’s list, emerging as the standout figures who have defined the first half of the season.
