Karl Etta Eyong: The Rising Cameroonian Star
No player has more goal involvements in La Liga this season than Levante’s Karl Etta Eyong. With a stunning 6 goals and assists (G/A) in just 5 starts, the 21-year-old striker is producing a record matched at the top of the league only by global superstar Kylian Mbappé. This explosive arrival on the scene is the culmination of a steady rise through Spanish football.
Born in Douala, Cameroon on October 14, 2003, Etta Eyong began his career with local side Ecole de Football Galactique in Cameroon before joining the youth academy of Cádiz CF in January 2022. His excellent performance there, which led to a first-team debut in January 2024, ultimately caught the attention of Villarreal, who secured his signature in August 2024.
Karl Etta Eyong against Madrid - Credit : Levante
Style of Play: The Complete Forward
Etta Eyong is developing into a modern and complete attacking threat. His game is built on a foundation of electrifying pace and directness, but it's his all-around ability that marks him as a special talent. He possesses a strong hold-up play, a skill honed during his time at Villarreal B, where he scored 19 goals in 30 matches. This allows him to act as a deep-lying link-up player, effectively progressing the ball forward and breaking defensive lines. Furthermore, he is very sleek with both feet and complements his technique with a powerful header, making him a multifaceted danger in the box.
Development: A Steady Ascent
Etta Eyong's path to stardom has been one of deliberate and impressive progression. After his foundational years at the Ecole de football Galactique in Douala, he moved to Cádiz CF in 2022, steadily rising through their youth categories before his senior debut in early 2024. His potential prompted Villarreal to bring him in later that August. He continued his prolific form for Villarreal B while earning his first-team debut on April 20, 2025, and scoring two goals in seven senior appearances. This successful adaptation made him a valuable asset and set the stage for his next step.
Karl Etta Eyong ( Youth training in Doula) - Credit: Ecole de football Galactique in Douala
La Liga 25/26 Form: An Explosive Breakthrough
Etta Eyong started his campaign with Villarreal, and what a start it was. On his very first start in La Liga, he announced himself by scoring the opening goal of the entire 2025/26 season in a 2-0 win over Real Oviedo. Seeking more playing time for a real breakthrough, he made a €3 million move to Levante. The transfer has proven inspired. With Levante, he has started three games, scoring against Real Betis and Girona. His goal against giants Real Madrid made it three from three, showcasing his good anticipation and good movement to get off his marker, beating Thibaut Courtois to the ball from only a yard out.
Cameroon Call Up: The Anticipation Builds
Karl Etta Eyong's recent exclusion from the senior squad for a World Cup qualifier by coach Marc Brys raised eyebrows among fans, especially given his electrifying form. The striker's historic start to the season has only intensified the anticipation for his inevitable senior call-up. Speaking after the snub, Etta Eyong remained focused: "Playing for Cameroon is a major goal for me, but for now my priority is to settle in at Levante and give my best. If I perform well, opportunities will come naturally." His record-breaking performances suggest that a call-up for the next World Cup qualifiers is a compelling possibility.
Karl Etta Eyong against Real Betis - Credit : Levante
Future is Bright: Following a Legend's Path
The future looks exceptionally bright for Karl Etta Eyong. To be mentioned in the same breath as Kylian Mbappé for any statistical reason is a monumental achievement, signaling his world-class potential. For Cameroonian fans, this sparks an exciting narrative. Samuel Eto'o lit La Liga ablaze in his prime, and Etta Eyong, inspired by that legacy, appears to be following in those legendary footsteps. With a complete skill set, proven goal-scoring ability at every level, and confidence that is soaring, the rising star from Douala is on a clear trajectory to become Cameroon's next football superstar.