Spain`s La Liga is entering its critical final phase, with three potential champions vying for the title. FC Barcelona currently holds the top spot in the standings, with Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid trailing behind the squad managed by German coach Hansi Flick.
While Barcelona has shown impressive consistency throughout the season so far, Real Madrid remains a significant contender with just over a month left before the campaign concludes. A pivotal moment arrives on May 11 when the two giants will face off in Barcelona for the final La Liga El Clasico of the season. This match has the potential to heavily influence the outcome of the 2024-25 championship race.
Despite a strong season themselves, Atletico Madrid is currently positioned further back and is considered less likely to claim the title. This follows a summer of significant squad changes in 2024, including the notable acquisition of Argentinian striker Julian Alvarez from Manchester City for Diego Simeone`s team.
Barcelona`s appointment of former Bayern Munich head coach Hansi Flick has initiated a new era at the club. Flick could potentially achieve a historic treble in his debut season, as FC Barcelona is still actively competing in the Copa del Rey, where they are set to meet Real Madrid in the final on April 26, and the UEFA Champions League. Flick`s side will face Inter in the two-legged Champions League semifinals, which are scheduled to begin on April 30.
Real Madrid continues to be recognized as one of Europe`s elite teams, even after their UEFA Champions League quarterfinal elimination against Arsenal. Following the high-profile free transfer signing of French superstar Kylian Mbappe in the summer of 2024, Los Blancos have successfully integrated their star players, creating a formidable attacking lineup featuring the former PSG forward alongside Brazilian striker Vinicius Jr.
Below is a closer look at the current La Liga standings for the top contenders:
La Liga Standings
| TEAM | GP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | PTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Barcelona | 32 | 23 | 4 | 5 | 88 | 32 | +56 | 73 |
| 2. Real Madrid | 32 | 21 | 6 | 5 | 65 | 31 | +34 | 69 |
Title Race: Remaining Schedule
- Mallorca (H)
- Real Vallodolid (A)
- Real Madrid (H)
- Espanyol (A)
- Villarreal (H)
- Athletic Club (A)
- Getafe (A)
- Celta (H)
- FC Barcelona (A)
- Mallorca (H)
- Sevilla (A)
- Real Sociedad (H)
Dominic Ashworth