The youngsters who took LaLiga Santander by storm in 2016

The future of LaLiga lies at their feet. Young, gifted and hugely hungry, they have already shown that they have what it takes to shine in the best league in the world, LaLiga Santander. The ambition and fearlessness they have displayed prove that age is no obstacle on the road to success, and they have made major strides in the right direction.

One of the most exciting figures in this up-and-coming generation is Malaga CF's Javier Ontiveros, who has veritably kicked down the first-team door at La Rosaleda. The livewire winger's pace and goal threat have caught the eye and he has established himself as a regular in the line-up, a status the 19-year-old – whose maturity belies his tender age – seems set to maintain under new manager Marcelo Romero.

An equally bright future beckons for 21-year-old Marcos Llorente, who is also making waves in the middle of the park. The D. Alaves loanee, who came up through the academy at parent club Real Madrid, lies near the top of the LaLiga Santander standings when it comes to ball recoveries so far this season and is providing balance and ballast in the heart of the Basque outfit's midfield.

Speaking of highly talented young midfielders, we mustn't forget 20-year-old Rodrigo Hernandez, better known as Rodri. The cultured Villarreal CF anchorman's attributes give him an uncanny resemblance to club captain Bruno and the budding prospect is serving a privileged apprenticeship alongside the talismanic maestro, under the assured stewardship of coach Fran Escriba.

There is double delight in the Hernandez family, with Lucas (20)and Theo (19)both blossoming. The brothers can both acquit themselves with equal ease at left-back and in central defence, and both are highly rated at Atletico Madrid. While Lucas has already made the breakthrough for the Rojiblancos first team, Theo is out on loan at Alaves, where he is getting plenty of game time. With them in the picture, Atletico would appear to have the left side of their defence locked up for many years to come.

Another fledgling defender who has shot to prominence is R. Sporting's 19-year-old rock at the back, Jorge Mere. The centre-back born in 1997 has been instrumental throughout 2016 and played a particularly key role at the tail end of the 2015/16 campaign, helping Sporting to stay up against the odds. Hailing as he does from Asturias, he is a massive fan favourite and looks destined for big things.