From rising stars to revitalized veterans, discover the most improved players in Ligue 1 this season and how they’re transforming the league’s competitive balance.

Ligue 1’s Most Improved Players This Season

The 2024–25 season of Ligue 1 has been nothing short of exhilarating. As the French top flight continues to evolve, so too do its players. While stars like Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé often dominate the headlines, a different set of players have been quietly — and consistently — elevating their game. These are the most improved players in Ligue 1, whose remarkable development is changing not just their personal trajectories but also the dynamics of the Wild33 league.

In this in-depth scouting review, we explore the standout names who have transformed themselves into key assets for their clubs this season — from promising youth who made the leap to seasoned professionals rediscovering their best form.

1. Bradley Barcola (Paris Saint-Germain)

After joining PSG from Lyon, many were unsure whether Bradley Barcola could adapt to the intense demands of a star-studded team. But in 2025, he has proven himself as one of the most improved wide forwards in Ligue 1.

Stat Jump: From 4 G/A last season to 14 G/A this season
Strengths: Improved decision-making, off-ball movement, and one-on-one dribbling
Tactical Role: Often deployed on the left wing, Barcola provides width and pace to complement PSG’s central threats

His growth underscores the club’s new direction of nurturing young, high-ceiling French talent.

2. Eliesse Ben Seghir (AS Monaco)

Still only 20 years old, Ben Seghir has taken massive strides in his second full season with Monaco. While he showed flashes of brilliance previously, this season he’s delivering consistency.

Position: Attacking Midfielder
Key Stats: 8 goals, 6 assists
Traits: Vision, close control, and composure under pressure

His ability to play between the lines and connect midfield with attack has made him a linchpin in Monaco’s surprise title push.

3. Carlos Baleba (Lille OSC)

The Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleba has transitioned from a rotational role to a central figure in Lille’s engine room. With improved positioning and passing range, he’s one of Ligue 1’s midfield revelations.

Strengths: Ball recovery, vertical progression, tactical awareness
Impact: Leads Lille in tackles and interceptions

At just 21, Baleba’s upward trajectory is symbolic of Lille’s continued ability to develop and refine raw talent.

4. Jean-Clair Todibo (OGC Nice)

The former Barcelona defender has been quietly refining his game, and in 2025, Todibo is finally reaching his full potential.

Defensive Stats: Top 5 in Ligue 1 for clearances and successful duels
Improvements: Positional awareness and discipline
Leadership: Now seen as the heart of Nice’s backline

With rumored interest from Premier League clubs, Todibo’s resurgence could soon earn him a big-money move.

5. Nuno Tavares (Olympique Marseille)

Loaned back into Ligue 1, Tavares has significantly upped his defensive output and maturity compared to his earlier spells.

Role: Wing-back in a 3-4-3
Strengths: Explosive pace, tracking back, and improved crossing
Output: 3 goals and 5 assists in all competitions

Tavares is finally combining his athleticism with tactical discipline, making him a major asset for OM.

6. Thijs Dallinga (Toulouse FC)

The Dutch striker has quietly evolved into one of Ligue 1’s most clinical finishers.

Goals: 15 in all competitions
Shooting Accuracy: Among top 3 in the league
Notable Trait: Excellent movement in the box

From an unknown name to a top scorer, Dallinga’s progression exemplifies Toulouse’s growing ambition.

7. Bilal Brahimi (OGC Nice)

With increased minutes and a more central attacking role, Brahimi has showcased what he’s truly capable of.

Key Metrics: Doubled his assist tally
Style: Agile, creative, and dangerous from distance
Contribution: Often unlocks stubborn defenses with flair

His growth highlights the technical quality blossoming across mid-table clubs in Ligue 1.

8. Lucas Chevalier (Lille OSC)

Goalkeepers rarely receive the spotlight, but Lucas Chevalier deserves it this season.

Clean Sheets: 12 so far
Save Percentage: Among the highest in Ligue 1
Development: Commanding in the air, excellent distribution

At only 23, he’s now in the conversation for the French national team — a testament to Ligue 1’s keeper production line.

9. Rayan Cherki (Olympique Lyonnais)

Once criticized for inconsistency, Cherki has finally added end product to his immense technical skill.

Stats: 7 goals and 9 assists
Improvements: Tracking back, maturity in the final third
Style: One of Ligue 1’s most entertaining dribblers

Lyon’s faith in Cherki is beginning to pay off as he takes up a leadership role within the squad.

10. Farès Chaïbi (Stade de Reims)

A former youth prospect from Lyon, Chaïbi is now flourishing under Will Still at Reims.

Role: Dynamic central midfielder
Strengths: Passing range, defensive work rate
Contribution: Key connector between defense and attack

Reims’ midfield transformation owes much to Chaïbi’s relentless energy and football intelligence.

Why Improvement Matters in Ligue 1

Ligue 1 has long been viewed as a “selling league,” where stars are developed and sold abroad. But this narrative misses an important point: the league’s greatest asset is its ability to develop players year-on-year.

What we’re witnessing in 2025 is not just the emergence of new stars, but the refinement of raw, untapped potential into top-tier performers. These improvements are why Ligue 1 remains a vital pipeline to the world’s biggest clubs and competitions.

The Broader Impact on the League

As players improve, so does the overall competitiveness of Ligue 1. More balanced games, tactical diversity, and emerging contenders — these trends are being driven by the development of players within clubs.

Improved individual performance also raises:

Market values
European qualification chances
Youth academy standards

It’s a positive feedback loop that strengthens the foundation of the league itself.

Final Thoughts: Celebrate Growth in the League

While household names continue to draw global attention, it’s important to recognize the hard-working professionals who elevate their game and, by extension, their teams.

These most improved players are the unsung heroes driving Ligue 1 forward — and they deserve the spotlight.

Support the Growth. Support the League.

If you’re passionate about football development, talent evolution, and tactical refinement, Ligue 1 is the league to follow. These stories of progress make the sport richer and more inspiring.

📣 Celebrate the rise of tomorrow’s stars today. Follow and support the league as it shapes the future of football!