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Real Madrid usually turns up at the business end of the season.
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In soccer, the Premier League tends to gobble up. Its clubs regularly splash out the most on crowd-pulling transfers. It’s often considered the most-viewed division on the planet. And it has the most lucrative television rights—walking over the European competitors.
Yet, for all champion-elect Liverpool’s smoothness this season, the heady rise of underdogs Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest, and big shots like Manchester City falling, some are bemoaning the English top flight’s sense of predictability as the finish line nears. In contrast, a far from predictable competition is La Liga.
Indeed, eyeballs should zero in on Spain over the next few weeks. And here’s why.
Hay Liga—There’s A Title Race
Entering the final stages of La Liga with three, potentially four, names in contention for the trophy is a rarity. From a neutral point of view, it’s thankfully happening, with Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Atlético Madrid going for gold. Behind the usual candidates, Athletic Club is enjoying an admirable run.
Real has not looked as complete as last season, already dropping more league points than in 2023/24, yet the squad chemistry—with Kylian Mbappé in the mix—is strengthening with each test. Barcelona is fascinating—fast and fluid under the beady eyes of coach Hansi Flick but vulnerable on occasion. After a summer of change, Atlético has emerged as a force; striker Julián Álvarez’s effect is noticeable. Hard to beat, Athletic is on the up.
Regarding possible victors, only Italy’s Serie A compares for excitement in Europe’s strongest leagues.
Changing Narratives
On an individual level, it’s refreshing to see Brazilian winger Antony rediscover fun and form at Real Betis after a taxing period at Manchester United. The disrepair at Old Trafford would test any player’s resolve, but the upshot is a fresh environment and change in circumstance serves as a remedy. No longer weighed down, Antony has scored goals and been entertaining to watch in green and white. How fortunes turn.
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