The round begins on Friday when Villarreal host struggling Espanyol. Espanyol parted ways with coach Manolo Gonzalez on Tuesday following their Copa del Rey exit. Barcelona will look to bounce back from last weekend’s El Clasico defeat as La Liga enters its 11th round of matches, while Atletico Madrid could temporarily move to the top of the table and the traditional Basque derby between Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad promises another fierce chapter in one of Spanish football’s oldest rivalries. B-team coach Sergio Garcia will take charge for Friday’s fixture Although the club has appointed Eder Sarabia as his successor.
Atletico Madrid can climb to the top of the standings if Diego Simeone’s side defeat Levante on Saturday. Atletico will once again rely on the attacking threat of Argentine forward Julian Alvarez, although they must be wary of a disciplined Levante team that has already defeated Real Betis and Athletic Bilbao at home this season.
Barcelona, meanwhile, have injury concerns ahead of Saturday night’s home clash against Alaves, with Xavi Espart the latest player ruled out. Jules Kounde could return from an ankle injury in time for the match, providing a timely boost for Hansi Flick as Barcelona attempt to recover from back-to-back defeats. Saturday’s schedule also includes Rayo Vallecano’s home fixture against Celta Vigo.
Real Betis will look to return to winning ways after losing to Barcelona and drawing 0-0 away to Celta Vigo when they host Malaga on Saturday. Malaga are still searching for their first win after 11 matches since returning to La Liga, although Juanfran Funes’ side came close last weekend before conceding late against Alaves.
