The race for the La Liga title is set to be intense,with Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid all closely competing for a top spot. As the season progresses, each team will be looking to capitalize on any slip-ups from their rivals. Real Madrid with their strong quad and depth and experience, will aim to maintain consistency, while Barcelona continues to thrive under their current management. It will be fascinating to see who will lift the La Liga trophy this season.
Yes, this year's race seems to continue until the end of the season. Barcelona won all the matches played between Real Madrid and Barcelona. Moreover, Barcelona gained a clear advantage in these matches. In this respect, the game that Barcelona achieved in the matches played with Real Madrid makes them the natural favorite. Although Barcelona seems strong for the championship right now, it should not be forgotten that they are losing points even to the middle-ranking teams. The situation in the league can change at any time. Both Real Madrid and Barcelona seem to continue the fight until the end. Also, let's not forget Atletico Madrid, they are also in the championship race.
Natural favorite is quite a big claim because these games went flawlessly for them and I wouldn't expect that it goes the same way every time they play. It could be, but it doesn't have to be, there is no mechanism for that that ensures Real Madrid won't fight back if the time has come that a title is on the line and this could soon be the case. The game on May 11th may be a decider and then I think Barcelona won't beat them 4-0.
The same might be in the Champions League if they play against each other. It's a different vibe in that competition and the pressure is much higher for both teams. I think Barcelona has more versatility in their game and that makes them strong, but Mbappe is in shape now and I think it will be different from now on.