La Liga has seen many talented footballers from around the world, but African players have brought something special to the competition. From dazzling attackers to midfield generals and rock-solid defenders, African footballers have had a significant impact on the league. In this post, we will highlight the best African signings in La Liga history, ranked from least to most influential.
7. Mickaël Essien (Real Madrid)
Mickaël Essien, a Ghanaian powerhouse, joined Real Madrid on loan from Chelsea in 2012. While his time at the club was brief, Essien’s leadership, versatility, and strength in midfield were valuable during José Mourinho’s reign at Madrid.
Essien’s ability to play across the midfield and defense, especially in a tactical system like Mourinho’s, made him an important asset, despite his limited appearances. While he may not have had the same lasting legacy as some of the other African greats, his contribution during his one season at Madrid was solid, helping the team win the Copa del Rey and putting in key performances in La Liga matches.
6. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (FC Barcelona)
— (Photo by Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, the Gabonese forward, joined FC Barcelona in 2022 after leaving Arsenal. His addition to the squad provided immediate impact, with Aubameyang scoring goals in crucial moments and adding a much-needed goal-scoring threat to Barcelona’s attack.
Though his time at Barcelona was relatively short, Aubameyang helped Barcelona in their resurgence, particularly in their push for success in La Liga. His movement, finishing ability, and experience were key factors in Barcelona’s attack, making him one of the best recent African signings in La Liga.
5. Seydou Keita (FC Barcelona)
Mali’s Seydou Keita joined FC Barcelona in 2008 and became a crucial member of the squad during one of the club’s most successful eras. Known for his versatility in midfield, Keita could play both defensively and offensively, contributing to Barcelona’s treble-winning season in 2009 and several other La Liga and Champions League victories.
Keita’s tactical awareness, passing ability, and work rate made him an integral part of Barcelona’s midfield. His ability to score important goals in La Liga and contribute defensively ensured he was valued by both his teammates and managers. Though not always in the spotlight, Keita’s contributions were critical to the club’s success during his time at Barcelona.
4. Éric Abidal (FC Barcelona)
Éric Abidal, a French-born player of Malian descent, was one of the most reliable and respected defenders in La Liga during his time at FC Barcelona. Joining Barcelona in 2007, Abidal became an essential part of Barcelona’s defense, known for his pace, positioning, and intelligence on the field.
Abidal’s most memorable moment came when he made a triumphant return to the field in 2011 after recovering from liver surgery, showcasing his resilience and commitment to the club. His leadership and defensive stability were key components in Barcelona’s La Liga titles, including their 2009 and 2011 Champions League-winning campaigns. Abidal’s legacy at Barcelona is solidified through his defensive contributions and leadership.
3. Yaya Touré (FC Barcelona)
Yaya Touré, an Ivorian powerhouse, joined FC Barcelona in 2007, and his influence on the team was immediate. Touré’s physicality, composure, and ability to control the midfield made him a key player for Barcelona, especially during their treble-winning 2008-2009 season.
While Touré was known for his commanding presence and box-to-box runs, his versatility was also evident in how he could break up opposition attacks while also contributing offensively. Although he moved on to Manchester City in 2010, his role in Barcelona’s midfield during their La Liga and European successes cannot be understated, making him one of the best African signings in La Liga history.
2. Samuel Eto’o (Real Madrid, Mallorca, Barcelona)
Samuel Eto’o, one of Africa’s greatest footballers, had a significant impact on La Liga through his time at Real Madrid, Mallorca, and later, Barcelona. While he started at Real Madrid, Eto’o truly made a name for himself at Mallorca before joining Barcelona, where his legacy would be cemented.
At Barcelona, Eto’o’s goal-scoring exploits were crucial to their success, including winning multiple La Liga titles and the UEFA Champions League. Eto’o formed part of one of the most feared attacking trios in Europe alongside Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi. His tireless work ethic, clinical finishing, and leadership made him one of the most influential African players in La Liga, helping to propel Barcelona to the top of European football.
1. Samuel Eto’o (Continued)
Eto’o’s peak years at Barcelona are iconic, and his two La Liga titles (2005 and 2006), Copa del Rey victory, and 2006 Champions League win cemented his place as one of La Liga’s best signings of all time. His ability to lead the line and score in crucial moments made him a true legend in Barcelona’s history. Eto’o’s time in La Liga was characterized by his dominance, physicality, and ability to rise to the occasion in big matches, earning him a spot as one of the best African players ever to play in the league.
Conclusion
African players have undeniably left their mark on La Liga, contributing significantly to the success of their teams and the league as a whole. From Samuel Eto’o’s goal-scoring heroics at Barcelona to Yaya Touré’s commanding presence in the midfield, these African signings have showcased their immense talent and leadership. Their legacies in La Liga are a testament to the incredible impact African footballers have had on one of Europe’s most competitive leagues.
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These top African signings have helped shape the course of La Liga’s history, and their influence continues to inspire future generations of African players looking to make their mark in Spanish football.
