Real Madrid: 5 future stars to monitor around La Liga

Real Sociedad LW Ander Barrenetxea

Real Sociedad left winger Ander Barrenetxea found it difficult to obtain consistent minutes this season, as La Real have one of the best attacking fronts in all of Europe. But Barrenetxea is likely no stranger to Real Madrid’s decision-makers, as he’s one of the top attacking prospects in Spanish football.

Mostly used as a left winger, the 18-year-old made 14 substitute appearances and three starts for Sociedad this past season in La Liga. He had an additional three appearances in the Copa del Rey.

Barrenetxea is a fearsome dribbler with a LOT of skill. WhoScored.com had him credit with just 1.3 dribbles per game, but that’s only because he came on as a sub so often. His per game numbers are deflated. If we look at his stats per 90 minutes, Barrenetxea averaged a remarkable 4.6 successful dribbles per 90 minutes to lead all players under the age of 23 with a minimum of 10 appearances.

He needs to work on his consistency, but the intent and skill are clearly there. Real Madrid already have two teenage left wingers with even more talent and dribbling skills, but Barrenetxea is one of those guys you can’t take your eyes off of. He has the potential to become a great goal-scorer in La Liga.