🏆 La Liga Team of the Week – Round 22
Formation Created For Illustration Purpose Based On Author's Pick And Doesn't Represent The Actual La Liga Team Of The Week.
📊 LaLiga EA Sports — Team of the Week • Jornada 22
LaLiga’s Round 22 produced moments of brilliance, tactical intrigue, and renewed momentum for several clubs fighting at both ends of the table. With a series of competitive matches across the weekend, Team of the Week (TOTW) selections rarely come from a single standout performance — instead they reward players who not only influenced results but also made a decisive impact through creativity, defensive stability, tactical intelligence, and match-winning moments. Here’s our expert breakdown of this week’s best XI, analyzed in depth.
🧤 GK: Unai Simón (Athletic Club)
Starting between the sticks, Unai Simón earns his spot for a string of commanding saves and leadership at the back. In a derby where Athletic drew 1–1 with Real Sociedad, Simón was instrumental in keeping Athletic competitive, showcasing reflexes and positioning that kept his team in the game until the final whistle. His distribution was crisp under pressure, launching attacks with accuracy and intent — an underrated but crucial facet in today’s game. His presence in goal gives Athletic not just shot-stopping ability, but a reliable organiser of the back line.
🛡️ Defensive Line
Left Back: Javi López (Real Oviedo)
A standout performer in Oviedo’s eye-catching 1–0 victory over Girona, where the Asturian side finally broke a long winless run, Javi López was a constant outlet down the left flank. His defensive discipline and ability to transition quickly into attack provided balance to Oviedo’s setup, helping them keep a clean sheet in a tightly contested battle.
Centre Back: Eric García (Girona)
Despite Girona falling to Oviedo, Eric García’s positional sense and aerial dominance were highlights. He marshalled the centre of defence with calm authority, intercepting danger and reading attacks intelligently. For a side that sits mid-table with European aspirations, his leadership at the back remains key.
Centre Back: Marc Bartra (Real Betis)
Betis’ hard-fought 2–1 win over Valencia showcased Bartra’s composure and organisational ability in defence. Often the stabilising force when Betis come under pressure, Bartra’s intelligent reading of play and timely interventions helped thwart Valencia’s late surge, particularly in moments that could have swung the result.
Right Back: Pablo Maffeo (RCD Mallorca)
Maffeo was a livewire on the right flank as Mallorca thumped Sevilla 4–1. His energy and overlapping runs provided width and attacking impetus, while defensively he remained alert in tracking back. His contributions on both ends of the pitch have been a major factor in Mallorca’s resurgence.
🧠 Midfield Engine Room
Left Midfield: Nicolás González (RC Celta)
Nico González delivered a performance packed with dynamism and creativity. His dribbling, incisive balls between the lines and willingness to drive at defenders made him a constant threat. Even where results didn’t go Celta’s way, González’s individual influence was notable, creating chances and adding tempo to attacks.
Central Midfield: Dani Parejo (Villarreal)
Veteran midfielder Dani Parejo continues to be the metronome for Villarreal. In their 2–2 draw with Osasuna, Parejo dictated the rhythm of play with smart ball circulation, intelligent positioning and well-timed forward passes — breaking lines and creating opportunities with his vision. His calmness under pressure makes him invaluable.
Central Midfield: Arda Güler (Real Madrid)
Arda Güler’s inclusion is reward for a performance that blended flair with impact. In Real Madrid’s 2–1 win over Rayo Vallecano, where a dramatic late penalty sealed the win, Güler’s creativity and ability to unlock the defensive block stood out. With Jude Bellingham sidelined through injury, Güler has stepped up to add spark and unpredictability in the final third.
Right Midfield: Gonçalo Guedes (Real Sociedad)
Guedes was one of the few bright sparks in Real Sociedad’s 1–1 draw with Athletic. His direct play and incisive movement caused constant problems for the opposition. Guedes combined pace with a willingness to take on defenders, making him a standout performer even in a relatively balanced encounter.
⚽ Attacking Duo
Striker: Lucas Boyé (Alavés)
Boyé‘s goalscoring instincts were on full display in Alavés’ 2–1 away win at Espanyol. His strike not only secured three valuable points but also highlighted his ability to find space between defenders and finish clinically under pressure. Boyé’s work rate and link-up play make him a deserving pick in the TOTW.
Striker: Lamine Yamal (FC Barcelona)
The teenage prodigy continues to blaze a trail in La Liga and this week was no different. In Barcelona’s 3–1 victory over Elche, Yamal’s goal and eye-catching attacking play were decisive to Barça’s control of the contest. His pace, directness and end product make him a constant menace for defences — and an easy pick for the TOTW.
🔍 Tactical Themes & Takeaways
LaLiga’s Round 22 highlighted several key tactical narratives:
- Experience & Youth Combination: The blend of seasoned pros like Dani Parejo with emerging stars like Lamine Yamal shows the league’s generational depth.
- Defensive Solidity Wins Games: Teams prioritising organisation — like Athletic and Betis — reaped the benefits.
- Impact of Game Management: Close matches like Real Madrid’s late penalty win underline how crucial tactical discipline and mental strength are across all 90 minutes.
🏁 Final Thoughts
This TOTW isn’t just about who scored goals — it’s about who shaped matches. From Simón’s commanding goalkeeping to Parejo’s midfield orchestration and Yamal’s electrifying attacking threat, these eleven players stood above the rest in a captivating round of LaLiga action.
Whether you’re analysing fantasy impact, scouting form players, or simply tracking the season’s storylines, this team gives a clear snapshot of the league’s best performers in Round 22.
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