What a time to be a fan of Spanish football. With the league suffering something of an austerity period, the duopoly of Real Madrid and Barcelona finally saw their stranglehold on the La Liga title end after seven years when Diego Simeone’s Atlético Madrid swept in out of the blue on the final day and won the league. It was a momentous occasion only slightly hampered by the fact fans weren’t allowed into the ground to celebrate due to the coronavirus pandemic.
This season’s title race is looking as exciting as ever. At the time of writing, just four points separate first and fifth, with Sevilla and Real Madrid still having a game in hand. European commitments, injuries and fatigue will play huge parts in dictating how the league will pan out over the course of the season and as we approach the business end — with Barcelona not even being considered in the running in the betting exchange. With that in mind, we thought we’d run through the top five and realistically outline their title chances.
Real Sociedad
Currently sitting pretty at the top of the table, Sociedad have built a great squad over the last few seasons under Imanol Alguacil. Assembling a well organised unit spearheaded by a variety of attacking options including Alexander Isak, Mikel Oyarzabal and David Silva, who looks rejuvenated playing in his homeland since leaving Manchester City. Despite having a strong starting 11, a title race challenges the experience and depth of a squad, something the other sides have in abundance compared to Sociedad. They may make a valiant effort of it, but we think they will come up short.
Real Madrid
A side in transition under Carlo Ancelotti in his second stint at the club, Real Madid still have enough ability to compete for the title, even after losing key players over the summer. They don’t look phased by their makeshift backline and impose themselves on the majority of La Liga games with their versatility and firepower in attacking areas. They will be in contention for the title right up until the final day should they remain consistent.
Sevilla
The divide in points last season between the top four and the rest of the league shows just how hard it is to earn Champions League football and it is testament to Sevilla that they have embedded a place in the country’s elite teams and picked up where they left off last season. Aided by new talisman Érik Lamela, who like Silva looks to have found a new lease of life since departing England, the Rojiblancos might not take the title, but will certainly be happy establishing themselves as a regular Champions League outfit.
Atlético Madrid
The reigning champions, Atleti will have gained so much experience and confidence from last season’s title win. Under Simeone they have become a well-oiled unit that is capable of competing in Europe as well as defending their title. Considering they went to the wire last season and held their nerve, and that the goalscoring prowess of Luis Suárez is yet to wane despite the Uruguayan’s age, we think Real’s noisy neighbours are once again favourites for the title.
