5 Things to Watch Out For as Spain’s La Liga Begins

Spain’s La Liga returns this weekend, and the stage is set for another season of drama, rivalry, and footballing brilliance. 

With champions Barcelona looking to defend their crown, Real Madrid desperate to wrestle it back, and several clubs entering a new era, here are five key storylines to keep an eye on as the new campaign kicks off.

Xabi Alonso’s Real Madrid Era Begins

Real Madrid fans are stepping into unfamiliar territory, Carlo Ancelotti’s calm leadership has been replaced by the sharp tactical mind of former midfield general Xabi Alonso. 

The new coach inherits a star-studded squad featuring Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior, but also a few glaring concerns. Luka Modrić’s departure leaves a hole in midfield, while Jude Bellingham will be sidelined until October after shoulder surgery.

Madrid’s pre-season included a bruising 4-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup, raising questions about fatigue and readiness. 

New arrivals Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen bring defensive reinforcements, and Dani Carvajal’s return from injury adds stability but Alonso’s biggest challenge will be restoring Madrid’s winning mentality after Barcelona dominated them last season.

Can Lamine Yamal Keep Shining?

Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal was one of the breakout stars of last season, dazzling fans with his skill, composure, and knack for game-changing moments. 

Now wearing the iconic No. 10 shirt once worn by Lionel Messi, the 18-year-old carries even greater expectations.

Fresh from helping Spain win Euro 2024, Yamal will be central to Hansi Flick’s plans as Barça move back into their renovated Camp Nou. But with the Champions League also in their sights, keeping him fresh will be vital. 

If new signing Marcus Rashford settles quickly, Yamal might get some much-needed rest, allowing Raphinha to take shifts on the right wing.

Atletico Madrid’s Big Summer Shake-Up

Diego Simeone is starting his 14th season in charge of Atletico Madrid, but the pressure is rising. After a disappointing end to last year and an early Club World Cup exit, the club has undergone a squad reshuffle. 

Midfield creativity has been boosted with the arrivals of Alex Baena from Villarreal and Johnny Cardoso from Real Betis, but long-time stalwarts like Ángel Correa, Rodrigo De Paul, and Saúl Ñíguez have moved on.

Despite Simeone’s legendary status, Atletico’s trophy haul over the past decade is modest by their standards. If the new-look squad struggles early, the debate over whether “El Cholo” has taken the team as far as he can may flare up again.

Santi Cazorla’s Last Dance with Oviedo

Few comeback stories in football rival that of Santi Cazorla. The former Arsenal magician, who once faced the possibility of losing his right leg, played a key role in guiding his boyhood club Real Oviedo back to La Liga for the first time in 24 years. 

At 40, Cazorla has signed on for one final season, ready to lead Oviedo into their emotional top-flight return.

He’ll kick things off against former club Villarreal, and while his influence on the pitch may be limited compared to his prime, Cazorla’s presence guarantees a hero’s reception wherever he goes. 

Fresh Starts at Real Sociedad and Sevilla

Two of Spain’s most recognisable clubs are pressing the reset button. Real Sociedad bid farewell to long-serving coach Imanol Alguacil, replacing him with reserve team boss Sergio Francisco. 

Meanwhile, Sevilla, who barely escaped relegation last season have brought in Matías Almeyda to spark a revival.

Both teams have proud histories and strong fan bases, but recent struggles have dulled their shine. Sevilla in particular face a steep climb after finishing 17th last season, while Sociedad must find a way to fill the void left by midfield linchpin Martín Zubimendi, now at Arsenal.