The big football news of the week was Lionel Messi leaving F.C Barcelona after 18 years. Before the departure of the Argentine talisman, Barcelona were outright favourites to win La Liga with transfers Memphis Depay, Sergio Aguero, Eric Garcia and Emerson adding value to their squad, but Messi's absence will be clearly felt at Barcelona even after some good signings. FC Barcelona's financial problems in relation to La Liga rules have also resulted in them not being able to officially register Memphis Depay and Sergio Aguero. Whether that situation is solved before La Liga begins on 14th August remains to be seen.
Real Madrid on the other hand have problems of their own. Los Blancos have made only one signing this season which was David Alaba from Bayern Munich. Real Madrid sold club captain Sergio Ramos along with his center back partner Raphael Varane while Brahim Diaz was once again loaned out. After losing two first choice players Madrid didn't make any subsequent additions to an already depleted squad. Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Marcelo and Benzema are all past their prime age-wise. As of now there is no progress with long term target Kylian Mbappe who might come a little closer to Madrid if PSG do sign Lionel Messi.
Amidst all these problems with the two La Liga giants, defending champions Atletico Madrid are silently building a project. Diego Simeone led Atleti to the La Liga title last season beating Real Madrid by just 3 points. They have strengthened their squad by signing Rodrigo De Paul after his Copa America heroics for Argentina. Fluminense youngsters Marcos Paulo also joined Atlético for free. With quality players all around the pitch, Luis Suarez leading the line and a manager like Diego Simeone Atletico Madrid are undoubtedly the favourites to win the La Liga.
Also read: Why F.C Barcelona’s problems lie deeper than Lionel Messi’s departure
Last season Atletico were cruising in the La Liga by January, but a drop in form allowed both Real Madrid and FC Barcelona to catch the Rojiblancos. Real's injury woes and Blaugrana's inconsistency against bottom placed teams meant that Atletico won the title by just 3 points. This season a lot more will be expected from Someone's side. Atletico haven't won back to back La Liga titles since 1951 but this season will arguably be their best opportunity to do so. If Luis Suarez continues firing on all cylinders then nobody can stop Atletico Madrid from winning the title.
La Liga as a brand has taken a huge hit by the departure of Lionel Messi and Sergio Ramos. A good three horse title challenge will work very well for La Liga. Both Real Madrid and Barcelona still have good squads with world class players and hence cannot be underestimated. La Liga kicks off on 14th August with Valencia Vs Getafe at the Mestalla stadium.
