The Pirate and the Swan: a salute to two of La Liga’s less-celebrated forwards

March 10, 2026

TL;DR

Vedat Muriqi (Mallorca) and Ante Budimir (Osasuna) have scored 31 league goals combined this season.
Muriqi, nicknamed 'the Pirate,' has overcome physical challenges and early doubts about his playing ability.
Budimir, nicknamed 'the Swan,' is praised for his humility and impactful performances, despite early career struggles.
Both players' families were displaced due to war, shaping their disciplined and resilient personalities.
In a recent match, Muriqi scored twice, and Budimir scored the equalizer in a 2-2 draw between Osasuna and Mallorca.
Despite modest club support, Muriqi and Budimir are crucial to their teams, contributing a high percentage of their goals.
Neither player has scored more than 13 goals this season, but their impact is significant given their teams' chance creation rates.
Both are considered old-school No. 9s, excelling in aerial duels and embodying antiheroic qualities that endear them to fans.
They have a shared history of costing €8 million and finding success in their 30s at their respective clubs.

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