5 La Liga summer signings who've surprisingly fared well

Andres Guardado (Real Betis)

Guardado (pictured, left) in action against Real Madrid

When Guardado joined Real Betis last summer despite interest from the MLS, it was seen as a move which would boost the Mexican's chances of playing in this year's World Cup.

When you analyse the situation now though, it can be said that he's the best Mexican performer in Europe currently. Under the guidance of manager Quique Setien, the 31-year-old midfielder has turned out to be an important figure in Betis' setup - which connects the defence and attack.

After a three-year stint with PSV, he was signed for around €2.3m last summer. This has turned out to be a shrewd piece of business as Guardado's performance levels have increased in his new environment, while his attributes on the pitch help the team more than statistics suggest.

He's scored one and assisted six in 16 league appearances this term, so he'll be hoping for more of the same ahead of the business months of the campaign. The energy and balance he provides in midfield is incomparable, while lower expectations have allowed him the opportunity to work hard, without having to worry much about criticism or needless media coverage.

The way he's performing for his team now justifies what his countrymen call him - Principito - which translates to the Little Prince.