La Liga made its triumphant return this past weekend and it certainly did not disappoint. Recently promoted clubs and middle-table clubs shocked us this weekend with their outstanding performances that turned the biggest clubs upside down. 

Real Madrid v. Almeria

If you’re a Real Madrid fan, you were on the edge of your seat during the entire match with Almeria. The recently promoted side came out and made a shocking statement just six minutes into the match. Real Madrid’s new signing, Antonio Rudiger got a rude awakening into the world of Spanish football.  While the club is still looking to work out the kinks in terms of a new back line, they certainly have the tools for success. However, what Rudiger and the backline lacked defensively, was one of the only players to spark an offensive presence in the first half. While the defensive presence was more than lacking in the match, we did see bright spots off the bench. After coming off the bench, Alaba’s first touch of the game was a beautiful free kick just outside the 18 that helped Madrid seal the victory. 

Almeria, who was just promoted to the Primera division, showed the world that they were back on top for a reason. While the result did not pan out in the fashion they hoped, their early strike had one of the world’s biggest clubs on their toes. The key to their success you ask? Youth. Many of their young players made a huge impact in their return to the top. While youth was on their side, the club still has a few players yet to make their debuts and they’re certainly top talent. 

Barcelona v. Rayo Vallecano

Slow. That’s ultimately the word to describe Barcelona’s performance against Rayo Vallecano. Barça last played Rayo Vallecano in April and saw them suffer a humiliating defeat that sparked the need for a multitude of signings and exits for the club. However, all the money spent and the reshuffling done by the club did not seem to make a difference. We did see the debut of Lewandowski, Dembele, and Raphina in the first match of the season, but what was meant to be a bright spot for the match fell completely flat. 

What did we learn from this match up? Barcelona’s attack needs more time and games to reach their full potential. While the club has signed new players and used them in the match, there needs to be more intermixing of new and old because La Liga is a totally different league. However, we cannot forget about Rayo Vallecano because their performance led them to a 0-0 draw with the Spanish legends. They’re a team that needs to be taken seriously coming into this season as they try to cement themselves as a real threat to the rest of the league. 

My biggest advice for Barça fans; be patient, time will power the club forward. They have all the tools  for success, but connections and success do take time. Don’t worry, just be patient. 

What to look forward to

The first week was everything as advertised and brought us excitement, tears and celebrations among the world’s top clubs. Performances for the clubs that spent the most money this offseason were less than average, which is certainly a concern for many players and fans alike. It’s not the big spenders that are making a statement this season. Smaller clubs didn’t grab three points, but they certainly grabbed our attention with early goals and impressive performances that caught the big clubs slacking this weekend. While clubs like Atletico Madrid did not open up this weekend, it will be interesting to see how the small clubs compete this season. 

Will new players fit in? Are we going to see a new champion? Was the transfer window successful? Stay tuned all season long for our thoughts, opinions, and updates.