Raphinha named La Liga Player of the Year, Yamal crowned Best Youngster

Raphinha has been named La Liga Player of the Year after a standout season that saw him lead Barcelona to a domestic double under new head coach Hansi Flick. The Brazilian winger delivered an exceptional campaign, scoring 18 goals and providing 9 assists, earning recognition for both his attacking flair and tireless work ethic.

The 28-year-old, now in his third season at the club after joining from Leeds United, was nearly offloaded last summer. However, Flick's arrival changed his fortunes dramatically — the German tactician not only retained Raphinha but handed him the captain’s armband and a new contract until July 2028.

Known for his blistering runs down the right flank, clever dribbling, and relentless defensive tracking, Raphinha proved to be Barcelona's heartbeat in a title-winning side that also lifted the Copa del Rey.

Yamal Shines as Top U-23 Talent

Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal continued his meteoric rise by winning La Liga's Under-23 Player of the Year award. The 17-year-old forward has cemented his place in both the Barcelona and Spain starting line-ups, earning plaudits across Europe for his maturity, creativity, and composure in front of goal.

Yamal’s performances this season have seen him emerge as one of the brightest young stars in world football, and his recent heroics in Spain’s Nations League semi-final win over France only further solidify his burgeoning reputation.

La Liga 2024–25 Major Awards Recap:

• Player of the Year: Raphinha (Barcelona)
• Best U-23 Player: Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
• Coach of the Year: Hansi Flick (Barcelona) (expected announcement)

With both experience and youth firing on all cylinders, Barcelona’s resurgence under Flick may just be the beginning of a new golden era at Camp Nou.

SportsLigue