Real Madrid ended the 2022/23 La Liga season narrowly short of the title, finishing as runners-up after a campaign that kept supporters on edge until the final whistle. The season closed with a home clash against Athletic Bilbao that finished in a 1-1 draw. Karim Benzema struck in the 72nd minute to cancel out an early lead from Athletic Bilbao, but the opener came from Ohian Sanchet, a 23-year-old midfielder who announced himself and reminded fans of Real Madrid’s depth and readiness to respond under pressure. The late goal by Benzema underscored the club’s habit of finding a way to stay in the fight even when the going gets tight, echoing a season defined by resilience in moments that mattered most.
In a separate fixture, Atletico Madrid pressed for a decisive result in their visit to Villarreal, yet the match ended level at 2-2. The final table after 38 rounds showed Real Madrid on 78 points and Atletico Madrid just behind them on 77, illustrating a tightly contested title race that was decided in the closing stages. The run of results highlighted the margin of small plays and late twist of fate that can swing a championship bid, even for teams with storied histories like these two Madrid clubs.
Across the rest of the campaign, Barcelona secured the league title, grabbing the crown with a performance that reflected consistency, depth, and a clear game plan that paid off over the season. Real Sociedad finished fourth, earning a spot in the UEFA Champions League group stage, while Villarreal settled into fifth and earned entry into the Europa League group stages, signaling a continued European push alongside domestic commitments. These placements shaped the broader narrative of a season where Spanish clubs balanced domestic battles with continental ambitions, all while trying to sustain momentum for the next cycle.
Beyond the on-pire results, the season carried intriguing off-pitch threads. Discussions emerged around Artem Dzyuba and his potential forward role, reflecting the ongoing debate about personnel and how squad composition could adapt to evolving tactical needs. The coaching landscape also drew attention, with observers weighing the stance and strategy of Leonid Slutskiy in guiding the team through a period of transition and adjustment. These conversations formed a backdrop to on-field events, influencing expectations and positioning as clubs looked ahead to future campaigns.
As the season drew to a close, the narrative was clear: a league that continues to evolve, fueled by talent, strategic shifts, and the constant search for improvement. Real Madrid did not lift the league trophy, but the campaign showcased consistent performance, depth, and the ability to stay competitive across a demanding schedule. The club reinforced its ongoing pursuit of both domestic and European glory, signaling a readiness to push for major honours in the seasons to come. The balance of competitive pressure, tactical adaptation, and player development suggested a bright horizon for Real Madrid, with the squad and its supporters eager to translate strength into sustained success in the primed environments of both La Liga and continental competition.