Last update January 2, 2025 by Alberto Llopis
The decade of the 90 marked a before and after in Spanish football, with an opening to foreign players that enriched the competitive level of the League. Among them, African footballers left an indelible mark thanks to their talent, charisma and contribution to the show. Then, We review the best representatives of the African continent who shone in the stadiums of Spain during this era.
Some of the most prominent African footballers in the League in the 90
Rashid Yekini: The Nigerian goalscorer
Rashid Yekini, Nigerian football icon, landed in the League in the season 1994-1995 after standing out in the USA World Cup 94 to play for Real Sporting de Gijón. Although his time at the Asturian club was not extensive, his reputation as a lethal goalscorer preceded him, after having led Nigeria in the World Cup 1994 and be recognized as the best African player in 1993. His physical power and skill in the area left glimpses of his quality in the Spanish championship. It was one of those players who played in the USA 94 and died relatively young.
Finidi George: Class and overflow at Real Betis
The Nigerian winger Finidi George arrived at Real Betis in 1996, from Ajax, where he had already won the Champions League. In Seville, He quickly became an idol, standing out for his ability to overflow, precision in crosses and scoring ability. During his years at Betis, Finidi was key to consolidating the team as one of the most competitive of the time. His celebrated custom of celebrating goals with a wide-brimmed hat remained engraved in the memories of fans..

Samuel Eto'o: The first steps of a legend
Although Samuel Eto'o would shine in the following decade, The Cameroonian began his professional career in Spain during the 90. Trained in the Real Madrid youth academy, He had his first experiences in the first team and brief assignments in clubs like Leganés. His talent was evident, but it was at the end of the 90 when he began to establish himself as a promise in world football.
Mutiu Adepoju: The silent genius of the Super Eagles
Mutiu Adepoju, Known for his tactical intelligence and versatility, was a Nigerian midfielder who stood out for Racing de Santander during the 90. Nicknamed “The Magic Head” for his ability in the air., He was a key player in the team's permanence in the First Division. further, His leadership in the dressing room and international experience with Nigeria gave him special status among fans..
Geremi Njitap: Cameroonian youth and strength
The Cameroonian Geremi Njitap arrived in Spanish football in 1999 from the hand of Real Madrid. Although it was still in the process of consolidation, His physical power and ability to play in various midfield positions predicted a promising future.. in the white club, Geremi proved to be a reliable and hard-working player, characteristics that led him to win titles in later years. Although his time in Spain was brief, He was part of the team that won the Champions League 2000.
Jaques Songo’o: The lock of Depor
Jacques Songo'o was one of the best African goalkeepers in the history of the Spanish League over the years 90. The Cameroonian goalkeeper, born in 1964, He left an indelible mark thanks to his outstanding performances, especially with Deportivo de La Coruña.
Songo'o in “Super Depor”
Songo'o joined Deportivo in 1996 and quickly became a key piece for the Galician team, known as “Super Depor”. His agility, Reflexes and confidence under the three sticks made him stand out in one of the club's most successful periods.. It was a fundamental factor in the team's classification for European competitions and in the consolidation of Deportivo as one of the greats of the League during that time..
In the season 1996-97, Jacques Songo'o was awarded the Zamora Trophy, which is awarded to the goalkeeper with the fewest goals scored in the League with 28 goals conceded 37 matches. This achievement not only established him as one of the best goalkeepers in the tournament, but also made him a benchmark for African football in Europe.
Africa, cradle of footballers for Spanish football
African footballers not only contributed talent and spectacle, but they also helped to diversify and globalize Spanish football. The League began to be an attractive destination for African stars, and many of them took advantage of this opportunity to establish themselves as references in their teams.
From the strength and determination of Rashidi Yekini to the class of Finidi George, African players began to arrive in large numbers to the Spanish football 90. In a time of great change and openness in sport, Africans showed that their talent could shine on any stage, including demanding European football.