Discover the most improved teams in La Liga 2024/25. See which clubs have risen, how they’ve done it, and what it means for the league.

La Liga’s Most Improved Teams in the 2024/25 Season

La Liga has always been known for its fierce competition, tactical variety, and clubs steeped in tradition. But this 2024/25 season has been especially exciting—not because of dominant title runs by heavyweights like Real Madrid or Barcelona, but because of the remarkable improvements by several mid-table and underdog teams. These clubs have defied expectations, upgraded their tactics and rosters, and turned heads across Europe.

This transformation isn’t just good news for the teams themselves; it’s a huge win for La Liga as a whole. Increased competitiveness makes the Lgd gaming league more exciting for fans and more respected globally.

In this article, we’ll break down the most improved teams in La Liga for the 2024/25 season and examine how they’ve achieved such dramatic turnarounds.

1. Girona FC: From Mid-Table to European Dreams

Key Stats:

• 2023/24 Finish: 10th

• Current 2024/25 Standing: 3rd

• Goals Scored: 60+ (among top 5 in league)

• Major Wins: Real Madrid (H), Atlético Madrid (A)

Girona FC’s transformation has been nothing short of a fairytale. Under manager Míchel Sánchez, the Catalan club has developed a balanced system that emphasizes attacking width, ball retention, and coordinated pressing. Their ability to maintain a compact shape while transitioning rapidly into attack has surprised many.

Standout Players:

• Artem Dovbyk – A revelation in attack

• Aleix García – The midfield maestro dictating tempo

• Miguel Gutiérrez – One of the league’s top progressive full-backs

Girona’s newfound resilience and fluid football make them one of La Liga’s best stories this year.

2. Athletic Club: Youth Meets Experience in Bilbao

Key Stats:

• 2023/24 Finish: 8th

• Current 2024/25 Standing: 4th

• Goals Conceded: 25 (2nd best defense)

• Tactical Note: Press-heavy, 4-2-3-1 formation

Athletic Club’s loyalty to their Basque-only player policy makes their success even more impressive. This season, they’ve become a formidable force, blending veteran leadership with youth academy gems. Manager Ernesto Valverde has re-energized the team with aggressive pressing, high-intensity transitions, and an organized backline.

Key Contributors:

• Iñaki Williams – Still crucial on the wing

• Oihan Sancet – Flourishing as a No. 10

• Unai Simón – Top 3 goalkeeper in La Liga

Bilbao’s ability to disrupt top teams and secure vital wins away from home has elevated their league position dramatically.

3. Real Betis: Pellegrini’s Tactical Evolution

Key Stats:

• 2023/24 Finish: 9th

• Current 2024/25 Standing: 5th

• Ball Possession Avg: 58% (Top 3 in league)

• Tactical Evolution: More verticality and faster build-up

Manuel Pellegrini’s Betis have matured tactically this season. While past versions of the squad leaned heavily on technical playmakers, this year’s team incorporates more pace and directness. The midfield duo of Guido Rodríguez and Isco offers both stability and creativity.

Impact Players:

• Isco – Resurgent and central to creativity

• Ayoze Pérez – Offers versatility up front

• Luiz Henrique – Provides width and one-on-one threat

Real Betis’ adaptation and depth have enabled them to compete more consistently and challenge the traditional top four.

4. Deportivo Alavés: Defensive Solidity Driving Stability

Key Stats:

• 2023/24 Finish: 14th

• Current 2024/25 Standing: 9th

• Clean Sheets: 10+

• Goals Conceded: Among the lowest outside top 4

Alavés were tipped for relegation battles, but instead, they’ve exceeded expectations. Under coach Luis García Plaza, the team has focused on a solid defensive structure, quick counters, and set-piece efficiency.

Unsung Heroes:

• Rubén Duarte – Defensive leadership at left-back

• Antonio Blanco – Breakout holding midfielder

• Samu Omorodion – Power and pace up front

Their ability to stay compact and steal points from bigger sides makes them one of the most surprising and improved teams in La Liga this season.

5. Las Palmas: Controlled Possession and Tactical Intelligence

Key Stats:

• 2023/24 Finish: Promoted from Segunda

• Current 2024/25 Standing: 11th

• Pass Accuracy: 87% (Top 5)

• Tactical Identity: Possession-based 4-3-3

Las Palmas have embraced the challenge of La Liga with style. Instead of bunkering down, they’ve implemented a possession-heavy system under manager García Pimienta. While goals are still a bit scarce, their tactical approach has earned praise.

Key Players:

• Kirian Rodríguez – Dictates tempo from deep

• Sergi Cardona – Attacking threat from full-back

• Munir El Haddadi – Brings top-level experience to the attack

Las Palmas’ brave style has added a refreshing dimension to the league this season.

Why These Improvements Matter

The elevation of these clubs is a sign of La Liga’s increasing competitiveness. It’s no longer a two-horse race between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Clubs like Girona, Betis, and Athletic Club are not just participating—they’re challenging for Europe.

This shift enhances:

• The league’s global appeal

• Scouting and development pipelines

• Tactical diversity in Spanish football

It also gives fans across Spain a reason to believe that with the right structure, scouting, and coaching, even smaller clubs can climb the ranks.

What’s Behind the Improvements?

A few key trends have fueled these transformations:

1. Smart Recruitment

Most of the improved teams invested wisely in players that fit their tactical system rather than chasing big names.

2. Stability in Management

Consistent philosophies under long-term coaches like Pellegrini, Valverde, and Míchel have provided tactical continuity and trust.

3. Youth Development

Teams like Athletic Club and Las Palmas are reaping the rewards of long-term investments in youth academies.

Final Thoughts

The 2024/25 La Liga season has proven that improvement is possible even without sky-high budgets. These teams have succeeded through tactical coherence, player development, and strategic planning. They’re not just competing—they’re reshaping the league narrative.

With each upset, clean sheet, or breakout star, they keep La Liga exciting for fans across the globe.

Love competitive football? Support these rising teams and celebrate the growing parity across your favorite league. Let’s show appreciation not just for the giants, but also for the ambitious clubs changing the La Liga landscape!