The Digest:
The 2025 La Liga season begins with Real Madrid under the guidance of new manager Xabi Alonso, but can they topple the defending champions, Barcelona?
Key Points:
- Real Madrid's early struggles last season saw Barcelona dominate, including winning all four El Clásico matches.
- The departure of Carlo Ancelotti and the arrival of Xabi Alonso mark a new chapter for Los Blancos.
- Alonso's challenge is to resolve Madrid's attacking and midfield issues, with new signings like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Alvaro Carreras.
- Barcelona has made fewer moves in the transfer market, relying on key players like Lamine Yamal and Marcus Rashford.
- The lack of a major squad overhaul for Barcelona raises questions about their ability to defend their title against stronger competition.
- Real Madrid’s struggle to integrate Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, and Rodrygo into a cohesive attack is a key concern.
- Atletico Madrid also aims to challenge, with key new signings including Thiago Almada.
The battle for La Liga supremacy between Barcelona and Real Madrid remains intense, with both sides adjusting their squads and strategies ahead of the new season.
