Rodri, Raya, Cucurella & Ruiz – Spanish Stars Abroad in 2025

Spain has long been a hotbed for world-class football talent, producing players with technical excellence, vision, and a deep understanding of the game. While La Liga remains the home of many Spanish stars, some of the nation’s finest ply their trade abroad. The 2025/26 season will be no different in that respect, and we’ve picked out some Spaniard’s to watch this term.

Rodri – Manchester City’s Midfield Mastermind

Rodrigo Hernandez, widely known as Rodri, continues to be the heartbeat of Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City. Since arriving from Atletico Madrid in 2019, he has evolved into arguably the best midfielder in the world. Rodri’s vision, ball control, and ability to break up play have made him irreplaceable at the Etihad.

Rodri’s goal in the 2023 Champions League final secured City’s first European crown, and despite a serious knee injury last term, his May 2025 return was perfectly timed. City endured a disappointing 2024/25 campaign, largely due to Rodri’s absence, as proven by the club being seen as more likely to win when he’s on the pitch, according to football betting markets.

David Raya- Arsenal’s Safe Hands

David Raya’s rise to the top has been remarkable. After making his move from Brentford to Arsenal permanent last summer, Raya quickly established himself as one of the Premier League’s top keepers. In 2024/25, he claimed a share of the Golden Glove, breaking the club record for the most shutouts from an Arsenal goalkeeper in their first fifty matches.

Mikel Arteta’s style of building play from the back suits Raya’s excellent distribution, while his shot-stopping has saved Arsenal crucial points. His form has drawn praise from pundits and fans alike.

Marc Cucurella – Chelsea’s Resurgence Story

Marc Cucurella’s time at Chelsea has had its ups and downs, but the 2024/25 campaign marked a significant upturn in form. Initially signed from Brighton in 2022, the left-back endured inconsistent spells before becoming a regular starter under the club’s new tactical identity.

In 2024/25, Cucurella showcased the energy and tenacity that made him a standout in the Premier League for Brighton. His overlapping runs, defensive work rate, and improved end product have helped Chelsea regain stability in defence. He’s also a starter for the Spanish national team, due to his upturn in form and fortunes.

Fabian Ruiz – Paris Saint-Germain’s Midfield Conductor

Fabian Ruiz’s move from Napoli to PSG in 2022 has allowed him to operate alongside some of the biggest names in world football. The central midfielder brings a blend of technical finesse and tactical awareness that fits perfectly with Luis Enrique’s style of play.

In 2024/25, Ruiz became more of a central figure, dictating the tempo and linking play between defence and attack. His composure on the ball and ability to retain possession under pressure were vital in PSG winning Ligue 1 and the Champions League last season.

The Global Footprint of Spanish Football

The achievements of Rodri, Raya, Cucurella, and Ruiz underline a broader truth, that Spanish football’s influence does indeed extend far beyond La Liga. Whether in England’s higher tempo Premier League or elsewhere, Spain’s best continue to excel and inspire.

For fans, it’s proof that while La Liga offers plenty of talent, some of Spain’s most compelling stories are unfolding abroad.