The 2025/26 season finds RC Celta de Vigo in a state of measured evolution at the Estadio ABANCA-Balaídos, as the Galician club continues its project under the guidance of Claudio Giraldez. The 37-year-old manager, now in his second full campaign after replacing Rafa Benítez, has instilled an ambitious possession-based identity while maintaining the fighting spirit synonymous with this historic region of northwestern Spain. Known as Os Celestes (The Sky Blues) in homage to Galicia’s ancient Celtic heritage, Celta ended the 2024/25 season in a respectable ninth position—their highest finish since 2018—fueling optimism for a potential European push. This season’s squad reflects a strategic pivot: capitalizing on the loan market, integrating undervalued international talents (Moriba, Swedberg, Starfelt), and continuing to build around the legendary Iago Aspas, now in the twilight of his career but still the club’s beating heart. Balaídos, with its raucous local support, remains a difficult outpost for visiting giants like Real Madrid and Barcelona. Below lies an exhaustive examination of Celta’s first-team roster for 2025/26, organised by position, with each player’s journey, financial details, and stylistic fingerprints dissected thoroughly .
Goalkeepers
1. Iván Villar
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate (Celta B, Levante on loan)
Transfer Fee: Academy graduate
Iván Villar has finally emerged from the long shadow of Vicente Guaita to claim the number one jersey permanently, his patient years as an understudy rewarded with consistent performances. The 28-year-old’s reflexes (74% save percentage in 2025/26) and command of the penalty area have been instrumental in Celta’s defensive solidity. A product of the famed A Madroa academy, Villar possesses excellent distribution with his feet (89% pass completion), which suits Giraldez’s demand for building possession from the back. Having started 26 league matches this season, keeping 9 clean sheets, he has silenced previous doubts about his ability to handle the pressure of being a starter in La Liga. His performance against Real Betis in December 2025—making 8 saves, including a spectacular diving stop from an Isco free-kick—demonstrated his growing authority .
2. Ionuț Radu
Nationality: Romanian
Former Clubs: Inter Milan (youth), Genoa (loan), Cremonese (loan), Bournemouth
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2025)
Ionuț Radu arrived in the summer of 2025 on a free transfer, bringing Premier League and Serie A experience to bolster the goalkeeping unit as a reliable backup. The 28-year-old Romanian international’s shot-stopping (71% save percentage in limited minutes) and reflexes remain solid, though his distribution (85% pass completion) is less polished than Villar’s. Radu’s experience—including 30+ Serie A appearances for Genoa and a brief stint at Bournemouth—provides valuable depth. He started 12 matches in 2025/26 (primarily in the Copa del Rey and rotation fixtures), keeping 5 clean sheets. Radu’s contract runs through 2028, with Celta viewing him as a stabilizing veteran presence .
3. Marc Vidal
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Marc Vidal has served as the emergency third-choice option following his return to Galicia. The 25-year-old’s role is primarily training-based, maintaining fitness and pushing the starters in drills. Vidal’s contract runs through 2028 .
Defenders
1. Carl Starfelt
Nationality: Swedish
Former Clubs: IFK Göteborg, Celtic
Transfer Fee: €1.5 million (2025)
Carl Starfelt has become the defensive rock of the new-look Celta, bringing Scottish Premiership-winning experience and Nordic physicality to the heart of the backline. The 30-year-old’s aerial duel success (83%) leads the team, neutralizing physical target forwards and providing set-piece security. His positioning (2.4 interceptions per 90) and no-nonsense tackling (2.7 per 90) embody the defensive discipline Celta lacked in previous seasons. Starfelt’s partnership with Óscar Mingueza has provided balance; the Swede handles the physical duels while Mingueza steps out with the ball. His arrival from Celtic for a modest fee has proven to be one of the shrewdest pieces of business by the sporting department. Starfelt’s contract runs through 2029, with the club viewing him as the long-term organizer of the defense .
2. Óscar Mingueza
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Barcelona B, Barcelona
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2022)
Óscar Mingueza has completed his transformation from promising Barcelona B graduate into one of La Liga’s most versatile and progressive defenders. The 26-year-old’s ability to operate across right-back, centre-back, and even defensive midfield has made him indispensable to Giraldez. Mingueza’s ball-carrying (4.3 progressive carries per 90) and passing (5.0 progressive passes per 90) initiate attacks from deep; his chemistry with Iago Aspas on the right flank creates consistent overloads. Defensively, his tackling (2.5 per 90) and interceptions (1.9 per 90) have improved significantly through consistent first-team exposure. Mingueza’s five assists in 2025/26 demonstrate his attacking threat, often underlapping into the box to support the forwards. His contract runs through 2028, with Celta rejecting January 2026 approaches from Villarreal .
3. Javi Rodríguez
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy)
Javi Rodríguez is the latest crown jewel of the A Madroa academy, forcing his way into the first-team rotation with mature performances beyond his 22 years. The young full-back’s defensive positioning (2.0 interceptions per 90) and crossing accuracy (39%) have impressed scouts from across Europe. Rodríguez’s relationship with the club—academy since childhood—provides emotional connection for the Balaídos faithful. Having logged 33 appearances in 2025/26, he has effectively displaced the aging veterans and established himself as the long-term heir on the flank. His contract, extended in 2025 through 2031 with a €30 million release clause, protects Celta’s asset .
4. Manu Fernández
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate
Transfer Fee: Academy graduate
Manu Fernández has provided steady defensive depth across multiple positions, offering tactical versatility and a professional attitude. The 24-year-old’s ability to cover both centre-back and right-back roles makes him a valuable utility option from the bench. Fernández’s contract runs through 2029 .
5. Sergio Carreira
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate
Transfer Fee: Academy graduate
Sergio Carreira has seen increased minutes in the 2025/26 campaign, providing youth and energy on the flanks. The 24-year-old’s pace (34.8 km/h top speed) and overlapping runs offer a different dimension when introduced late in matches. Carreira has contributed 2 assists in limited minutes, demonstrating his potential as a future starter .
6. Marcos Alonso
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Real Madrid Castilla, Bolton Wanderers (loan), Fiorentina, Sunderland (loan), Chelsea, Barcelona
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Marcos Alonso returned to Galicia (his father’s homeland) as a veteran signing following his departure from Barcelona, adding Champions League-winning experience and left-sided quality. The 35-year-old’s role has evolved from marauding wing-back to a more conservative left-back rotation option. Alonso’s set-piece delivery (2 assists from corners) and tactical intelligence remain valuable, though his lack of recovery pace limits him against rapid wingers. His relationship with the club—his father, Marcos Alonso Peña, was a star for Celta and Atlético Madrid in the 1980s—adds a sentimental layer to his presence. Alonso’s contract expires in 2027, with retirement likely .
7. Álvaro Núñez
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Athletic Bilbao B
Transfer Fee: €1 million (2025)
Álvaro Núñez arrived in the 2025 summer window to provide specialist cover at right-back, competing with Mingueza and Rodríguez. The 25-year-old’s defensive diligence and crossing (36% accuracy) have earned him 6 appearances off the bench. Núñez’s contract runs through 2029 .
8. Yoel Lago
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy)
Yoel Lago has emerged as a promising centre-back prospect, featuring in 16 matches in 2025/26 as the fifth-choice defender. The 21-year-old’s physicality (6’2”) and aerial duel success (78%) suggest a future role in the squad. Lago’s contract runs through 2029 .
9. Joseph Aidoo
Nationality: Ghanaian
Former Clubs: Genk
Transfer Fee: £5 million (2019)
Joseph Aidoo has fallen down the pecking order following the arrival of Starfelt and the emergence of Rodríguez. The 30-year-old Ghanaian’s playing time has been limited to just 8 appearances in 2025/26, but his physical presence remains a functional emergency option. Aidoo’s contract expires in 2028, though he is expected to seek a move in the summer for regular football .
Midfielders
1. Ilaix Moriba
Nationality: Guinean (Spanish-born)
Former Clubs: Barcelona B, RB Leipzig, Valencia (loan), Getafe (loan)
Transfer Fee: €6 million (2025)
Ilaix Moriba has finally found a stable home at Celta, reviving a career that once stalled after his controversial departure from Barcelona’s La Masia. The 23-year-old’s physicality (6’0”, 79kg) and ball-carrying (4.1 progressive carries per 90) provide unique midfield penetration. Moriba’s passing range (88% completion, 4.5 progressive passes) and ability to break lines with his dribbling make him a dangerous attacking threat from deep. His two goals and four assists in 2025/26 represent his most productive season in professional football. Moriba’s partnership with Fran Beltrán (prior to the latter’s departure) and later with Williot Swedberg has provided Celta with a blend of power and technique. Signed permanently from RB Leipzig for €6 million, this transfer represents a calculated gamble that appears to be paying off. Moriba’s contract runs through 2029 .
2. Williot Swedberg
Nationality: Swedish
Former Clubs: IF Brommapojkarna, CSKA Moscow (loan), Häcken (loan)
Transfer Fee: £5 million (2024, following loan)
Williot Swedberg has erupted as one of La Liga’s most exciting young attacking midfielders, justifying Celta’s patient investment following his loan from CSKA Moscow. The 22-year-old’s dribbling (3.6 successful take-ons per 90) and creativity (0.39 expected assists per 90) unlock packed defenses. His finishing (10 goals in 2025/26) and goal-scoring instincts from midfield are remarkable for a player who started the season as a rotation option. Swedberg’s relationship with Swedish compatriot Carl Starfelt has eased his adaptation to Galician life. His contract runs through 2029, with Celta rejecting January 2026 approaches from West Ham United .
3. Miguel Román
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy)
Miguel Román has emerged as a reliable midfield rotation option, providing energy and tactical discipline to the engine room. The 23-year-old’s work rate (11.3 kilometres per match) and pressing intensity (11.0 pressures per 90) set standards in training. Román’s single goal and two assists in 2025/26 belie his importance as a system player who allows Moriba and Swedberg the freedom to attack. His contract runs through 2029, with the club viewing him as a long-term squad anchor .
4. Hugo Sotelo
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy)
Hugo Sotelo has continued his progression from academy prodigy to dependable first-team contributor, featuring in 27 matches during the 2025/26 season. The 22-year-old’s passing (4.2 progressive passes per 90) and composure under pressure suit Giraldez’s possession demands. Sotelo’s relationship with the club—academy since childhood—provides emotional connection for the fans. His contract runs through 2030 .
5. Damián Rodríguez
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate
Transfer Fee: N/A (Academy)
Damián Rodríguez has accepted a limited role as emergency midfield cover, providing homegrown depth and tactical discipline. The 22-year-old’s contract expires in 2027 .
6. Andrés Antañón
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate
Transfer Fee: Academy graduate
Andrés Antañón has been promoted from the reserve team to gain first-team experience, featuring in two senior matches in 2025/26. The 19-year-old’s technical quality and youth suggest potential for future development .
7. Fer López (on loan)
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Wolves Academy, Real Madrid Castilla
Transfer Fee: Loan from Wolverhampton Wanderers (2025)
Fer López arrived on loan from Wolves’ Premier League setup to add attacking midfield depth. The 21-year-old’s creativity and dribbling (3.0 successful take-ons per 90 in limited minutes) have shown flashes of quality. His loan expires at the end of the 2025/26 season .
8. Luca de la Torre (on loan)
Nationality: American
Former Clubs: Fulham, Heracles Almelo (loan)
Transfer Fee: Loan expired (returned to Celta then loaned again)
Luca de la Torre remains a functional midfield option but has been loaned out for regular minutes after finding his opportunities limited in the star-studded Celta midfield. The 27-year-old American’s work rate and tactical discipline remain his primary assets .
Forwards
1. Iago Aspas (Captain)
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Liverpool, Sevilla (loan)
Transfer Fee: Academy graduate (returned from Sevilla for €5 million, 2015)
Iago Aspas, now 38, continues to defy the ravages of time, remaining Celta’s captain, talisman, and all-time leading scorer (167 La Liga goals). The forward’s minutes are now carefully managed (25 appearances, 17 starts in 2025/26), but his genius remains undiminished when on the pitch. Aspas’s left-footed finishing (5 goals in 2025/26, despite his reduced role) and movement off the right wing remain elite. His playmaking (6 assists) and link-up with the younger forwards demonstrate his evolution into a deeper creator role. Aspas’s relationship with the club—academy since age eight—provides emotional connection supporters adore; he embodies Celta’s identity more than any player since Mostovoi. His contract runs through 2028 (with the club offering rolling veteran extensions), ensuring he will retire in the sky blue of Celta. Aspas’s performance against Deportivo Alavés in October 2025—scoring a 90th-minute bicycle kick to salvage a draw—added yet another highlight to his legendary career .
2. Borja Iglesias
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Celta B, Villarreal B, Real Zaragoza, Espanyol, Real Betis
Transfer Fee: €2 million (2025)
Borja Iglesias made an emotional return to his boyhood club in the summer of 2025, arriving from Real Betis to lead the line. The 32-year-old striker, known affectionately as “El Panda,” provides a classic target-man presence (6’2”, 86kg) that Celta lacked in previous seasons. His aerial duel success (79%) and hold-up play (72% success receiving back to goal) occupy defenders, creating space for Swedberg and the wingers. Iglesias’s finishing (11 goals in 2025/26) and experience—including a Spain cap in 2022—provide a reliable focal point in the attack. His partnership with Iago Aspas, two Galician-born forwards, has delighted local fans. Iglesias’s contract runs through 2028 .
3. Ferran Jutglà
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Barcelona B, Club Brugge, Shakhtar Donetsk
Transfer Fee: €5 million (2025)
Ferran Jutglà arrived from Shakhtar Donetsk to add technical quality, versatility, and goal-scoring threat to the frontline. The 27-year-old’s movement off the shoulder (2.9 shots per 90) and finishing (10 goals in 2025/26) have made him a valuable rotation option behind Iglesias. Jutglà’s experience—including Champions League football with Club Brugge and Shakhtar—provides European pedigree. His versatility across center-forward and right wing offers Giraldez tactical options. Jutglà’s contract runs through 2029 .
4. Bryan Zaragoza (on loan)
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Granada, Bayern Munich
Transfer Fee: Loan from Bayern Munich (€1 million fee, 2025)
Bryan Zaragoza’s loan arrival from Bayern Munich was a coup for Celta, bringing the diminutive dribbler back to Spanish football after a challenging stint in Germany. The 24-year-old’s acceleration (0-30 km/h in 2.5 seconds) and close control terrorize defenders on the left flank. His finishing (7 goals in 2025/26) and creativity (4 assists) have provided a spark, though his defensive work rate remains inconsistent. Zaragoza’s relationship with Spanish teammates has eased his adaptation. The loan includes a purchase option (€12 million) that Celta is actively considering .
5. Pablo Durán
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate
Transfer Fee: Academy graduate
Pablo Durán has emerged as a reliable secondary forward, providing energy and finishing (5 goals in 2025/26) off the bench. The 24-year-old’s work rate pressing centre-backs (10.8 pressures per 90) sets a defensive tone. Durán’s contract runs through 2029 .
6. Franco Cervi
Nationality: Argentine
Former Clubs: Rosario Central, Benfica
Transfer Fee: Free transfer (2024)
Franco Cervi has accepted a limited role as a veteran wide option, providing Argentine technical quality and experience in short cameos. The 31-year-old’s contract expires in 2027 .
7. Hugo Álvarez
Nationality: Spanish
Former Clubs: Academy graduate
Transfer Fee: Academy graduate
Hugo Álvarez has seen first-team minutes in 2025/26, contributing 4 goals from the wing. The 22-year-old’s pace and dribbling suggest potential as a future starter .
Conclusion
Celta de Vigo’s 2025/26 squad represents a successful transition from the aging squads of previous years into a vibrant, physically imposing, and technically gifted team capable of challenging for European places. The defence, anchored by Carl Starfelt’s Swedish solidity and Óscar Mingueza’s Spanish versatility, has provided the platform for the team’s high-pressing system. The midfield, revitalized by Ilaix Moriba’s power and Williot Swedberg’s Swedish creativity, controls matches through physicality and technique. The attack, headlined by the legendary Iago Aspas and the returning Borja Iglesias, carries genuine goal threat while mentoring the next generation of Galician talent. Crucially, Celta has balanced immediate competitiveness with financial sustainability; Swedberg, Moriba, and Javi Rodríguez represent significant resale value while contributing immediately. The looming challenge involves navigating the inevitable departure of Iago Aspas, the club’s spiritual anchor, and replacing his genius without disrupting the squad harmony. Yet Balaídos’s intimate and passionate atmosphere, amplified by supporters who remember the EuroCelta era of Mostovoi and Makelele, provides emotional fuel. Celta no longer fights merely for survival; they compete with genuine ambition to break into La Liga’s top seven and return to European competition. The Sky Blues are soaring once more. Forza Celtiña .
