As African talent continues to flourish in Europe’s elite competitions, nowhere is their influence more evident than in LaLiga.
Long known for its emphasis on flair, technical excellence and tactical intelligence, Spain’s top flight has welcomed a generation of African players who are not only excelling on the pitch but also rising as respected leaders in their clubs.
Captaining in LALIGA is not simply about wearing the armband—it’s a responsibility steeped in history, identity and character.
Today, a new chapter is being written by stars such as Iñaki Williams and Djene Dakonam, who are leading with distinction and breaking new ground.
Iñaki Williams (Ghana) – A new chapter at San Mamés
With two consecutive African LALIGA MVP awards to his name, Iñaki Williams’ influence at Athletic Club goes far beyond goals and appearances.
In the summer of 2025, the Ghanaian forward was officially named the club’s new captain, succeeding the retiring Oscar de Marcos.
In doing so, Williams became the first Black captain in the club’s 126-year history—a landmark moment for both Athletic Club and African representation in Spanish football.
Williams, now 30, has been synonymous with consistency and commitment. His record-setting run of 251 straight league appearances between 2016 and 2023 remains unmatched, a testament to his physical and mental durability.
Having debuted in 2014, he has since amassed nearly 500 appearances and over 100 goals for the Basque side, while also playing a pivotal role in Ghana’s national team setup.
His leadership credentials were already evident in Athletic’s successful 2024 Copa del Rey campaign and a sustained push in the league. But this latest honour, conferred in front of a packed San Mamés, affirms his standing as a cultural icon in Bilbao and a symbol of pride for African football.
Djene Dakonam (Togo) – The general of Getafe
For eight seasons and counting, Djene Dakonam has anchored Getafe CF with tenacity, intelligence and quiet authority. The Togolese defender, who arrived in Spain via Cameroon and stints in Belgium, has become the face of Getafe’s defensive resilience.
With nearly 300 appearances to date, Djene stands as the club’s all-time appearance leader in LALIGA. His leadership was recognised formally when he was entrusted with the captain’s armband—an appointment that speaks volumes about his standing within the dressing room and fan base.
Now 33, his ability to play across the backline and in midfield adds tactical flexibility, while his international record—84 caps for Togo, many as captain—completes the picture of a seasoned leader.
Thomas N’Kono (Cameroon) – The pioneer between the posts
Few African players in Spain have left as enduring a legacy as Thomas N’Kono. The Cameroonian goalkeeper redefined expectations during his time at RCD Espanyol from 1982 to 1990, with 242 appearances and a near-mythical presence in goal.
N’Kono was a cornerstone of Espanyol’s run to the 1988 UEFA Cup final, but his influence has lasted well beyond his playing days.
He transitioned into coaching and has since spent over two decades developing the next generation of goalkeepers at the Catalan club. Revered across Spain and Africa alike, N’Kono remains one of the most influential African figures in LALIGA history.
Samuel Eto’o (Cameroon) – A legacy of trophies and leadership
Samuel Eto’o’s name evokes dominance, charisma and unrelenting ambition. Starting modestly at RCD Mallorca, where he scored 70 goals in 160 games and lifted the 2003 Copa del Rey, Eto’o’s LALIGA legend status was solidified at FC Barcelona.
At Barça, Eto’o was a catalyst for one of the most successful periods in club history, scoring 130 goals in 199 appearances and helping secure three LALIGA titles and two UEFA Champions League trophies.
Beyond his goals, Eto’o led by example, earning respect as both a star performer and a motivator. His success inspired a generation of African players to believe they could lead—and win—at the highest level.
Carlos Kameni (Cameroon) – The iron man of the goal
Carlos Kameni holds a unique place in LALIGA history. With 334 appearances—most by any African goalkeeper—his career has been defined by longevity and dependability.
At RCD Espanyol (2004–2012) and later Málaga CF (2012–2017), Kameni not only defended expertly but also wore the captain’s armband during crucial moments.
He first captained Espanyol in the intense derby against FC Barcelona in 2011—a mark of the trust placed in him. At Málaga, he repeated that leadership role, guiding younger teammates and anchoring the team during European campaigns.
His influence is measured not just in saves, but in his ability to lead from the back, in two of Spain’s most demanding footballing cities.
Noureddine Naybet (Morocco) – Commanding Depor’s golden era
In an eight-year spell at RC Deportivo, Noureddine Naybet embodied the strength and poise of the club’s backline. From 1996 to 2004, the Moroccan centre-back was at the heart of the defence as Depor won LALIGA in 2000, the Copa del Rey in 2002, and the Supercopa shortly after.
Naybet brought a calm but authoritative presence, both in La Coruña and in Morocco’s national team, where he earned 115 caps and played a vital role in their 2004 AFCON final run. His achievements helped elevate the status of African defenders in Spain and cemented his place among the continent’s most successful exports.
Seydou Keita (Mali) – The model professional
Seydou Keita’s time at FC Barcelona (2008–2012) may have flown under the radar compared to his flashier teammates, but his contribution was every bit as crucial. Signed by Pep Guardiola, Keita was the quintessential utility player—adept in midfield, tactically astute, and always dependable.
His leadership wasn’t always verbal, but rather evident in his professionalism and performance. He helped Barça win three LALIGA titles and two UEFA Champions Leagues, often stepping in seamlessly for Xavi or Iniesta. Internationally, Keita was a rock for Mali, earning over 100 caps and leading them to back-to-back AFCON bronze finishes in 2012 and 2013.
Frédéric Kanouté (Mali) – The heart of Sevilla’s golden age
Frédéric Kanouté’s seven-year spell at Sevilla FC coincided with the club’s most successful period in modern times. The graceful striker netted 136 goals in 290 appearances and became a cult hero for the Andalusian faithful.
Kanouté frequently wore the captain’s armband, particularly in key matches, including the 2006 and 2007 UEFA Cup finals. His 2006/07 campaign was particularly memorable—30 goals and silverware in the Copa del Rey, UEFA Cup and UEFA Super Cup. On the international stage, he scored 23 goals in 38 games for Mali, a talismanic figure in every sense.
Geoffrey Kondogbia (Central African Republic) – Leading Valencia’s midfield
At Valencia CF, Geoffrey Kondogbia brought steel and leadership to the midfield. Arriving in 2017 on loan from Inter Milan, he quickly became a fixture in the starting XI. His commanding displays saw him handed the captain’s armband on several occasions, guiding Valencia through a transition period.
His stint in Spain culminated in a move to Atlético de Madrid, but it was at Mestalla where he left a lasting impression—blending leadership with physicality. Internationally, he committed to the Central African Republic in 2018, where his influence continues to be significant.
Kenneth Omeruo (Nigeria) – The anchorman of Leganés
Kenneth Omeruo’s LALIGA journey began on loan from Chelsea, but his heart has remained with CD Leganés. Since signing permanently, the Nigerian defender has become a foundational figure at the club, culminating in his appointment as captain in 2022.
A composed and intelligent centre-back, Omeruo has been instrumental in Leganés’ fight for promotion and has become a role model both within the team and for aspiring African players aiming to rise through Europe’s ranks.
