La Liga, also known as Spanish Primera Division, is the Spanish League for the top clubs in the country. Barcelona are the current champions, closely followed by runners-up Real Madrid in the 2009-2010 season. Real Madrid currently holds the record for winning the La liga for a total of 31 titles. Their last title coming in 2007-2008 season. Real Madrid together with Barcelona and Athletic Bilbao are the only clubs that never have been relegated from the Primera League. La Liga is currently ranked second by the UEFA.The 2010-2011 season starts from 29th August 2010.
Preview: September 2010
Valencia
Alot of questions arose when the Silva and Villa left Valencia, and there were speculations that perhaps Valencia would not be able to perform as well as they did last season. But they have proved those speculations wrong and have proved it on their opening game against Malaga that they still have it.Valencia don't have hard tasks to deal with in September. However one challenge remains i.e. the game against Atletico Madrid at home. This game is vital for both the clubs and whoever wins it will have the upper hand in the rest of the season. Valencia, on the least, should be able to get a minimum of 9 points. Only if they play the way they are expected to play.
Upcoming Games: Racing (H), Hercules (A), Atletico (H), Sporting (A)
Players to Watch: Joaquin, Soldado.
What to Expect: A good decent position in the table at the end of the month. Probably in top 5.
Real Madrid
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With the new coach Jose Mourinho, Madrid are expected to win titles this season. And the reputation of the manager also conveys the same. However, Los Merengues have not been able to fulfill expectations. As they failed to win the opening day game against Real Mallorca. The game ended in a goaless draw and disappointment for Madridistas. The Ronaldo + Higuain formula is a fail. As both of the strikers have missed most of the easiest chances to score in the opening game.
Real Madrid doesn't have much challenging games this month so they are expected to win all 12 points. The only game that might be a little concern for Mourinho is against Espanyol at home. Though Real Madrid's recent performance raise questions whether they'll be able to achieve their target or not, but the madridistas believe in the coach's ability to win.
Upcoming Games: Osasuna (H), Real Sociedad (A), Espanyol (H), Levante (A)
Players to Watch: C. Ronaldo, S. Canales, Özil.
Wat to Expect: Would try to break into the top three and stay there before the end of this month.
Barcelona
The La Liga Champions have continued their fabulous form under Guardiola. Perhaps Guardiola has once again formed the 'The Dream Team'. The Catalans now are playing in a Pro-Spanish sort of way. And as most of the Spanish internationals played for Barcelona, so it wouldn't be hard at all. Barcelona had a easy opening day win against Racing Santander. The new signing David Villa, also opened his account for Barcelona.
Barcelona have resumed with their winning ways, and these are unlikely to change in the next month. The match against Atletico would be a crucial one. If Barcelona wants to climb to the top of the table, its essential they win that game. If all goes the catalan way, it wouldnt be a problem for them to snatch all 12 points.
Upcoming games: Hercules (H), Atletico (A), Sporting (H), Athletic Bilbao (A)
Players to Watch: Villa, Xavi, Messi.
What to Expect: Leaders of the table.
Hercules
The newly promoted Hercules face a battle to avoid relegation. So far they are the 'favourites' to be relegated but its just a hypothesis. However they have made some new signings with some big names on it as well. Most of them are to bolster the attack. Although they have lost against Athletic Bilbao, they will try to bounce back and win some points this month. However they have got some tough games this month. With Barcelona, Valencia & Sevilla all in the same month.
Upcoming Games: Barcelona (A), Valencia (H), Zaragoza (A), Sevilla (H)
Players to Watch: Trezeguet, Drenthe.What to Expect: Would probably be at the end of the table because of the tough fixtures. Would be a miracle if they're not in the last 5.
