The Granada forward spoke from the national team concentration and made clear that Lionel Messi is his idol, while naming Ronaldinho, Neymar and Vinícius as players he admires and studies closely.
Watching Bryan Zaragoza play is a real treat. The 22-year-old striker is one of LaLiga’s rising sensations, emerging from Granada after a breakout spell in the second division. His scoring prowess and pace were on full display in the win against Barcelona at El Carmen, a performance that earned him a call-up to the Spain national team under Luis de la Fuente. This week marked his first press conference as an international with La Roja during the concentration period.
Who is Bryan Zaragoza, Granada’s breakout star? Contract details, transfer value, and market assessment
The move to Spain’s top flight has not diminished his hunger or impact. Zaragoza, born in Málaga on September 9, 2001, has drawn attention from the very first matchday. He impressed in the season opener against Athletic, and his influence helped Granada secure three points in a win over Mallorca in the following fixture. He progressed steadily, posing a constant threat to rival defenses. When asked about his preferred position, he explained that he can adapt to the left or right wing or even play as a second striker. He added that he feels most comfortable as a winger, and that the team’s tactical shifts never restrict his willingness to contribute—he simply wants to be involved and dangerous whenever a chance arises, even if it means adjusting to a different role on the field.
His brisk pace, fearless dribbling, and the joy he radiates on the pitch reflect a player confident in his abilities. In an interview, Zaragoza revealed that his childhood idol was Lionel Messi. He also admitted admiring Ronaldinho at times, and that Neymar and Vinícius frequently catch his eye when he studies top-level performances. His approach to the game centers on joy and freedom: the first thought when stepping onto the pitch is to enjoy the moment, a philosophy that has guided him since he was a kid playing football on the streets. He explained that street football formed the core of his development and remains his strongest asset as a player who thrives on creativity and instinct.
Market observers note Zaragoza’s rapid rise as a potential game-changer for Granada and perhaps for the national team in the near future. His current market valuation is modest by top-tier standards, but the trajectory suggests a substantial increase as his performances continue to improve and he gains more exposure on the big stage. The transfer market will be watching closely as negotiations and potential interest begin to surface, though at this stage his focus remains on his development and contributions to Granada’s ambitions. The emphasis is on growth, consistency, and seizing every opportunity when it arises on the field.
Regarding the national team’s approach, Zaragoza recalled his brief conversation with the head coach yesterday. He was told that his selection was earned and that he should play boldly and without fear. The guidance centered on staying true to himself, maintaining the level of intensity he shows at Granada, and carrying the same confidence into every touch of the ball. The message was clear: take the ball, act decisively, and replicate the performance standards he has already demonstrated at his club. This confirmation from the national team staff underscores the trust placed in him as a forward who can make a tangible difference in Spain’s attacking setup.
— End notes: The narrative surrounding Bryan Zaragoza continues to evolve as he balances club duties with international aspirations. His journey from the streets of Málaga to the national team camp mirrors a classic path of ambition, persistence, and natural talent that resonates with fans across Spain and beyond. The on-pitch results and the growing confidence of coaches point toward a bright horizon for the young winger, who is already becoming a fixture in discussions about Spain’s new generation of attack-minded players. [Goal]