Madrid's January takeover: La Liga's Best XI crowns Real, with Barcelona's star shining

4 February 2026

January La Liga XI Highlights

The January La Liga best XI from WhoScored highlighted a Madrid heavy lineup for the month.

In goal, Mathew Ryan of Levante earned 7.49, while in defense Federico Valverde of Real Madrid 7.53, Kike Salas of Sevilla 7.57, Raul Asensio of Real Madrid 7.45, and Javi Galan of Osasuna 7.62, the highest defensive rating of the month.

In midfield, Barcelona's Lamine Yamal led the way at 8.75, Dani Olmo at 7.60, Arda Guler from Real Madrid 7.52, and Jude Bellingham at 7.64.

In attack, the pair Toni Martinez from Deportivo Alavés 7.48 and Vedat Muriqi from Mallorca 7.56 completed the XI.

Punchline 1: January was so Madrid-heavy that even the trophy shelf started filing for overtime.

Punchline 2: Barcelona's sun may shine brightest, but the rest of La Liga is squinting a bit and learning to wear sunglasses.

Author

Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who made WhoScored's January La Liga XI?

The XI features Mathew Ryan in goal; Valverde, Salas, Raul Asensio, and Javi Galan in defense; Yamal, Olmo, Guler, and Bellingham in midfield; Martinez and Muriqi upfront.

Which club is most represented in the XI?

Real Madrid has several players represented, underscoring a strong month for the club.

Which players from Barcelona and other clubs are included?

Lamine Yamal leads the midfield/attack, with Dani Olmo and Arda Guler from Real Madrid, and teammates Bellingham also rated highly.

What are the top-rated players in the XI?

Lamine Yamal tops the XI with 8.75, followed by Jude Bellingham at 7.64 and Vedat Muriqi at 7.56 among attackers.

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