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Seven young stars that will impress in La Liga this season

By Steve Zavala

PORTO, PORTUGAL - JUNE 09: Joao Felix of Portugal looks on prior to the UEFA Nations League Final between Portugal and the Netherlands at Estadio do Dragao on June 9, 2019 in Porto, Portugal. (Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images)
PORTO, PORTUGAL - JUNE 09: Joao Felix of Portugal looks on prior to the UEFA Nations League Final between Portugal and the Netherlands at Estadio do Dragao on June 9, 2019 in Porto, Portugal. (Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images) /
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LA CORUNA, SPAIN – AUGUST 10: Eneko Boveda of Deportivo de La Coruna competes for the ball with Diego Lainez of Real Betis during the pre-season friendly match between Deporivo de La Coruna and Real Betis at Riazor Stadium on August 10, 2019 in La Coruna, Spain. (Photo by Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)
LA CORUNA, SPAIN – AUGUST 10: Eneko Boveda of Deportivo de La Coruna competes for the ball with Diego Lainez of Real Betis during the pre-season friendly match between Deporivo de La Coruna and Real Betis at Riazor Stadium on August 10, 2019 in La Coruna, Spain. (Photo by Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) /

Diego Lainez (19) – Winger/Attacking Midfielder, Real Betis

While Christian Pulisic has gained high praise as the most promising prospect in the CONCACAF, Mexico’s Diego Lainez is surely not that far off behind.

Lainez moved to Real Betis from Club America during the winter transfer window. In just 16 appearances for the club in all competitions last season, the Mexican international gave glimpses of what he could bring to the team in the long-term. He scored a goal against Stade Rennais in the Europa League knockout stage and provided an assist against Barcelona in league play.

Heading into this season, it will be intriguing to see how new manager Rubi will utilize Lainez. The 19-year-old can play out in the wing or inside as an attacking midfielder. Known for his pace, Lainez is capable of beating multiple defenders on the dribble with a burst of speed like a rocket out of a cannon. His off-ball movements into space is a trait of his that while it is a work in progress, he can still be impactful with his runs.

Playing time for Lainez may be arbitrary as there is no clear-cut plan as to how he will be used. Nonetheless, how he continues to adapt to playing in La Liga will be something to watch for.

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