LA LIGA
2021-22 LA LIGA SEASON PREVIEW
LEVANTE Trying to predict a Levante season is a seemingly impossible task. Last season the club recorded away wins at both Real and Atletico Madrid whilst also going on to take only three points from their final eight games. The potential is there but can head coach Paco Lopez capitalise on it? With Roberto Soldado the only significant signing to date the club is relying heavily on last season’s squad but with a 4-3-3 formation and good blend of experience and youth, expect Levante to punch above their weight.
REAL MALLORCA At his first attempt, Luis García Plaza guided Real Mallorca back to the top flight after a runners-up spot in the Segunda Division. Survival is clearly the aim for Los Piratas although they will have to do it without Ante Budimir, who has made his loan move to Osasuna permanent. Angel Rodríguez and Jaume Costa both signed on a free add much needed experience for a side who could end up finding this a long campaign. Offer Real Mallorca 17th now and they will snap your hand off.
OSASUNA A strong campaign last season has left plenty of optimism in the Osasuna camp and for a number of reason. Firstly, Ante Budimir has made his loan signing permanent and repeat of his 11 goals last term will be very welcome. Secondly, the future looks bright as Javi Martinez and Kike Saverio have been promoted from the youth ranks. Formation is key for manager Jagoba Arrasate with a rumoured 4-3-3 going to be the approach as the Gorritxoak target possible European qualification.
LAST SEASON FINISH: 14TH
PROMOTED TO LA LIGA
LAST SEASON FINISH: 11TH
RAYO VALLECANO Rayo Vallecano may have caught themselves out a little bit after just sneaking into the Segunda Division top six and then earning promotion via the playoffs. A lack of preparedness has left Los Franjirrojos facing something of a mountain in their quest for survival with a lack of top flight experience in the squad. Head coach Andoni Iraola has managed to bring in talented 21-year-old left-back Fran Garcia from Real Madrid but one does feel Vallecano will be occupying the bottom three come the season’s end.
REAL BETIS Manuel Pellegrini has helped return Real Betis from mid-table mediocrity to the Europa League. Sixth place last season can be built on this campaign, although an identical season to last will likely be the aim. European football may impede their progress, however they have managed to bag talented goalkeeper Rui Silva on a free and last season’s loan signing Juan Miranda is now at the club on a permanent deal. Betis will be tough opponents and a top 10 finish beckons for Los Verdiblancos.
REAL MADRID This season may be similar to Barcelona’s and approached as something of a transition although anything other than the title will still be viewed as a disappointment. Carlo Ancelotti is back as coach but stalwart Sergio Ramos is out, as is Raphael Varane. However, the signing of David Alaba on a free is a shrewd move. The question mark remains over Gareth Bale and Eden Hazard. If they can get back to full fitness, then Los Blancos could take some stopping, and a return to the top of the table is what Madrid want. If not, and they struggle domestically, then Ancelotti could find himself in trouble and looking to the Champions League to save him.
LAST SEASON FINISH: 6TH
PROMOTED TO LA LIGA
RIGHT, BOTTOM: Osasuna's striker Ante Budimir celebrates after scoring the 1-0 lead during the Spanish LaLiga soccer match between CA Osasuna and Cadiz CF
ABOVE, LEFT: Real Madrid’s question mark remains over Eden Hazard ABOVE, MIDDLE: Carlo Ancelotti left Everton to return to Real Madrid six years after he was sacked
LAST SEASON FINISH: 2ND
DID YOU KNOW? 36
Sevilla have won their two opening league games during three seasons in a row for the first time ever.
SOCCER360 SEPTEMBER • OCTOBER 2021
Celta Vigo captain Iago Aspas Flag of Spain has played more games at El Sadar without scoring than at any other stadium in his entire career.
Real Madrid have beaten Levante the most times of any away side in La Liga history (11). Furthermore, only Barcelona (40) have scored more away goals against Levante than Real Madrid (29) in the competition.
