Regarded as probably the most cultured and technically gifted footballers in World football for the last few years, more and more premier league clubs are looking to Spain to import and recruit these top quality footballers. The market in Spain is a lot different to the glamour and money of the premier league, with the economic status of the country; many clubs struggle to balance the books. Only the real celebrated clubs in Spain are well off financially. Premier league clubs can often buy these players on the cheap, a lot less than from elsewhere. In this article I give my views on the top 3 performers from Spain that are plying their trade in the EPL this season, in my opinion.
Juan Mata:
You can’t look far away from Juan Mata at Chelsea, the 25 year old was a product of the famous Real Madrid academy that like many, wasn’t given a chance at Los Blancos. Impressive performances by him gained him a moved to Valencia where he caught the eye of many in La Liga. He has been arguably Chelsea’s most consistent player all season long and has deservedly been voted as a nominee for PFA player of the year. With 10 goals in 30 appearances for Chelsea, that is a very good record considering he is renown for his assist play for the blues. Statistically he has provided 80 chances for his side this season, more than anyone else in his squad. The versatility in his play style makes him one of the most important players for me, a magician.
Michu:
The Swansea man is lauded by many as the best signing of the season, he was signed by Michael Laudrup in the summer of 2012 for a fee of £2.2 million. After 15 league goals for Rayo Vallecano last season, he caught the eye of Laudrup who is a big fan of Spanish footballers, having managed in La Liga previously. With 17 goals in 31 outings this season for the Swans, he has helped them achieve success in terms of league progression and silverware. With Swansea’s recent Capital one cup success, Michu can look forward to European football next season. He has also contributed to his team as well as key goals helping create over 30 key chances for his team, as well as making 28 key decisive passes statisically. Whether playing upfront or in midfield, Michu is a truly good player, physical and skillful, the perfect mix.
David De Gea:
Probably the most controversial of picks, the former Atletico Madrid man and Spanish international has had a mixed time at Manchester United. Often criticised by media and fans alike due to his quiet and fragile nature, he really has put in some exceptional performances for United. He has also improved his physical nature, and although still of slight figure, he has bulked up and there looks a lot more to him, vital in the Premier League. Out to prove his critics who often deem his claiming and commanding as a severe weakness; he has successfully claimed 87% of balls that he has gone for. He also completes 2.54 saves per game, which is one of the highest ratios in United’s history. Not bad statistics for a goalkeeper supposedly not deemed good enough by some media sources and several television pundits. Considering his age, the Spaniard could become a pivotal figure for United and Spain internationally for years to come.
With Swansea announcing the signing of Real Betis midfielder Canas this week on a 3 year deal and with the overall transition from most Spanish players that come to the Premiership. That won’t be the last signing from Spain this summer.
Have your say: are Michu, Mata and De Gea the best Spanish Players in the EPL? Comment in the section below.