La Liga opens with Barcelona and Real Madrid rivalry central to discussion
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 8:03 PM
Last updated Aug 20, 2026
La Liga kicks off this season with longstanding rivals FC Barcelona and Real Madrid again in focus. Carles Puyol and Steve McManaman highlight that the title race is expected to center around these two clubs, which have dominated the league for decades. Barcelona aims to defend their title after winning their 29th championship last season, overcoming injuries to key players. The ongoing discussions about the season's trajectory indicate a familiar narrative in Spanish soccer.
- •La Liga season begins with emphasis on Barcelona and Real Madrid.
- •Puyol and McManaman discuss title contention between the two clubs.
- •Barcelona seeks to repeat as champions after their recent victory.
- •Historical dominance: both clubs have won nearly all titles since 2000.
- 8:03 PMYahoo Sports — Barcelona or Real Madrid? As La Liga kicks off, the eternal question once again dominates debate
"FC Barcelona great Carles Puyol and former Real Madrid forward Steve McManaman believe this year's La Liga race will come down to the usual suspects.
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