Spain`s La Liga season is entering its critical final stretch, with a fierce title race unfolding. Currently leading the pack is FC Barcelona, closely pursued by rivals Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
Under the guidance of new German manager Hansi Flick, Barcelona has shown remarkable consistency throughout the season, putting them in a strong position. However, Real Madrid remains a significant threat with just over a month remaining until the final matchday.
A pivotal moment in the title race will be the upcoming El Clasico clash between Barcelona and Real Madrid on May 11 in Barcelona. This late-season encounter could potentially play a decisive role in determining the champion of the 2024-25 campaign. (Note: Before this, they will meet in the Copa del Rey final).
Atletico Madrid, despite a solid season, are currently trailing the top two and appear less likely to challenge for the title. The club made notable roster changes in the summer of 2024, including acquiring Argentinian striker Julian Alvarez from Manchester City, joining the squad coached by Diego Simeone.
For FC Barcelona, the appointment of former Bayern Munich head coach Hansi Flick has ushered in a new era. Flick`s first season could be exceptionally successful, as the Blaugrana are still in contention for a potential Treble. They are set to face Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey final on April 26 and are also competing in the UEFA Champions League, where they will play Inter in a two-legged semifinal tie beginning on April 30.
Real Madrid continues to be a formidable force in European football, despite their elimination from the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals by Arsenal. The Blancos strengthened their squad significantly in the summer of 2024 by signing French superstar Kylian Mbappe as a free agent. This addition has allowed them to field a potent attack featuring Mbappe alongside Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr. Let`s examine the current standings and their respective schedules for the final weeks of the season:
La Liga Standings
| TEAM | MP | 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
1. FC Barcelona — 73 points
Mallorca (H), Real Valladolid (A), Real Madrid (H), Espanyol (A), Villarreal (H), Athletic Club (A).
2. Real Madrid — 69 points
Getafe (A), Celta (H), FC Barcelona (A), Mallorca (H), Sevilla (A), Real Sociedad (H).
