Even in the scorching summer heat, LaLiga Santander moves forward this Friday in an extraordinary season that centers on the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, shaping competition, planning, and football across the league. Osasuna versus Sevilla opens a campaign of resilience; Barcelona against Ray, Almeria versus Real Madrid, and Getafe versus Atlético Madrid highlight the early tales of a season with numerous storylines.
Everything kicks off this Friday with 380 matches on the slate, leaving no room for half measures to decide the title. The World Cup schedule has reshaped the calendar by pausing the league from November 10 to December 28, pushing pivotal fixtures toward the middle of the season and forcing clubs to adapt their plans around the break.
The title race intensifies as Real Madrid aims to defend its status after capturing the Champions League and the European Super Cup this week. Barcelona remains a major challenger, backed by stars like Robert Lewandowski, Jules Koundé, Raphinha, and Franck Kessié. Atletico Madrid also looms large, with a roster that includes Álvaro Morata, Saúl Ñíguez, Axel Witsel, and Nahuel Molina. The prevailing strength of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad and the formidable presence of Karim Benzema, along with Thibaut Courtois, continue to shape the league’s balance.
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Sevilla seeks to challenge Osasuna for an early positive start. Julen Lopetegui has faced changes after departures like Jules Koundé and Diego Carlos, but the club has responded with players such as Marcao, Alex Telles, and Isco Alarcon, aiming to reconnect with the best form of a coach who has shown his ability to elevate players on the national stage.
The pre-season turbulence, including losses in England, casts doubt on Osasuna’s trip to El Sadar. Players like Moi Gómez, who remained with the squad, along with Moncayola, David García, Budimir, and Manu Sánchez, look to build momentum as the season begins.
The big versus the humble
Real Madrid looks set to be tested, yet their recent triumphs and the enduring impact of Karim Benzema put them firmly in the conversation for the title. The defending European champions appear ready to defend their crown as the season unfolds, with Almería returning to the top flight.
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The league’s coverage continues to expand across networks, with teams presenting new signings and strategic shifts. After a notable retooling period, Real Madrid enters the campaign with added depth in defense and midfield, while Isco, Bale, and Jovic look to contribute when called upon. The squad remains anchored by star performers who shaped last season’s success.
Barcelona enters the campaign stronger, emphasizing Lewandowski’s influence and a lineup full of pace and creativity. Raphinha’s impact is evident, and the defense benefits from Koundé’s solidity. A vibrant, competitive squad under Xavi Hernández promises exciting matchups and a deep roster ready for the challenges ahead.
Atletico Madrid, under Diego Simeone, starts with a robust pre-season showing and a squad prepared to push for a high finish. The team finished third last season and is aiming for more sustained success, with a relentless, hard-working mindset that defines Simeone’s approach.
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And he became a champion twice. In recent years, the league has seen historic battles among the top clubs, with key moments shaped by Morata’s goals, Saúl Ñíguez, Axel Witsel, Nahuel Molina, and Getafe’s challenging fixtures as they chase a strong start to the campaign. The opening weekend features a mix of fixtures designed to test each side’s readiness, including a high-profile match to welcome the season.
The tough fight for Europe
Three clubs emerge as serious contenders to vie for European places. Sevilla and Real Sociedad both aim for a top finish, with Betis also seeking a return to the champions league contention. Manuel Pellegrini has reinforced his squad with Luiz Henrique and Luiz Felipe to support the core group, while veteran Joaquín continues to contribute with experience.
Real Sociedad remains without key players but adds depth with young talent and proven performers. Cadiz reconnects with the Nuevo Mirandilla stadium after recent fixtures, and Real Madrid shows a balance across attack and defense that signals a challenging run for the competition. The league also features ambitious rivals looking to disrupt the usual order, with Villarreal and Valencia among those aiming for higher finishes. Girona visits Mestalla to face Valencia, as the season’s early matchups set the tone for a dynamic campaign.
Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic Club returns with renewed expectations, though no official signing has yet closed. The Bilbao side looks to make a strong start, while Mallorca and Celta Vigo prepare to compete for points as the calendar turns. Both teams are ready for an intense season, with Balaídos set to host an opening weekend clash and several compelling fixtures on the horizon.
First business day
– Friday, August 12:
21:00: Osasuna – Sevilla
– Saturday, August 13:
17:00: Celtic-Spanish
19:00: Valladolid-Villarreal
21:00: Barcelona – Ray Vallecano
– Sunday, August 14:
17:30: Cadiz-Real Sociedad
19:30: Valencia-Girona
22:00: Almería – Real Madrid
– Monday, August 15:
17:30: Athletic Club–Mallorca
19:30: Getafe – Atlético Madrid
21:30: Betis-Elche