The 2018/19 La Liga season starts tonight and here is a little overview of what to expect.
Antoine Griezmann ready to challenge the Messiah
Cristiano Ronaldo exited La Liga for Juventus in the Serie A in July, leaving Lionel Messi as the undisputed king of the championship. Antoine Griezmann has been touted in the past as a potential candidate with the technical abilities and talent to rival the Argentine. The Frenchman is on a cloud after winning the World Cup with his country, and he was among the top scorers last season with 19 goals to his credit. This time, the stars could line up in his favour as evidenced by his record in Russia. If he remains collected and manages to avoid injuries, Griezmann could tear off the number one banner, especially now that Messi is not getting any younger.
Betis to spread its new talents
Real Betis finished the 2017/18 season in sixth place, their best result in 13 years. They did not waste time when the season was over but instead, they rummaged through the transfer window looking for talent that will help them take a new course this season. They have focused on their midfield, starting with the signing of William Carvalho, an experienced international with Portugal and a real bully in defensive midfield. They then obtained the services of Takashi Inui and Sergio Canales. It is almost certain that we will see new faces on the meadow this weekend.
Julen Lopetegui finally washes his dirty clothes
Julen Lopetegui is perhaps the number one public enemy in Spain according to a section of the public. His dismissal from the national coaching position on the eve of the opening match of the World Cup caused damage to the national side and completely destabilised the team. He would have definitely known that it is not easy to take over from a man like Zinedine Zidane at Real Madrid, as he found out in their UEFA Super Cup defeat to Atletico Madrid. This must have left a bitter taste in his mouth, but he will finally have a chance to smile this weekend when they host Getafe. This is a team that the Blancos have dominated in the past and they should have no problem doing that.
Huesca’s first lesson
Huesca will play their very first game in La Liga this Saturday when they make the trip to Eibar. This is a coincidence as the hosts are a team that knows a thing or two on how to succeed on your first try. The Ameros came into La Liga for the very first time in 2014 and they have never been relegated since. During their stay at the highest level of Spanish football, they have had ups and downs like any other team but they have managed to keep the balance season after season. They will have one or two tips for Huesca this weekend.
A world-class Russian in Valencia
Denis Cheryshev made a name for himself at the 2018 World Cup, and Valencia made a great move by acquiring his services. He has spent his entire senior career in Spain, and even scored three goals in seven games for Los Che while on loan in 2016. He has the credentials to succeed once more in this Valencia side that have done some good business in the transfer market with the signing of Michy Batshuayi and Kevin Gameiro.