As we approach August, the excitement begins to build once again as another season of La Liga action is set to kick off in a matter of weeks.
There has been plenty of entertainment off the field this summer, so how has this affected the betting markets, and are there any little gems to be looking out for?
Outright Winner
Picking the La Liga title winner leaves you with only three realistic options and the bookmakers reflect this.
Adding one of Real Madrid, Barcelona or Atletico Madrid to your bet slip makes complete sense, however, with numerous betting options available, having the types of bet slips explained could put you in an advantageous position in La Liga this season.
Unsurprisingly, Real Madrid’s sale of Cristiano Ronaldo has made Barcelona odds-on favourites to win the league at a best price 4/5 with Real at 6/4.
However, Atletico is worth a look at 14/1 with some significant signings made which have only strengthened Diego Simeone’s side.
Relegation
All three promoted sides from last season head the relegation betting this time around.
Huesca may be making their debut in the league but at 11/13 for the drop, it seems the bookies believe it will be a fleeting visit.
Valladolid is the next predicted side for the drop at a best price 15/8 (which could be worth a look) and Rayo Vallecano at 9/4.
However, it is important to note that all three promoted teams from the season prior all managed to stay in the division.
Could history repeat itself once more?
If so, then the next three in line for relegation according to the bookmakers are Levante, Leganes, and Alaves who all secured safety relatively early on in last season’s campaign.
For an outside bet, take a look at Girona, the Spaniards shocked all last season by finishing 10th but still remain one of the smaller sides in La Liga and could be susceptible to second season syndrome.
At 5/1 or the drop, Girona’s misery could well be the punters gain.
Top Four
Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid seemingly lock out the top three each season and there is little reason to believe that will not be the case once more.
Because of this, it means there is just one sole spot left for Champions League participation for the following season and this is where the betting hots up.
Discounting the top three, Valencia, Villarreal and Sevilla are unsurprisingly the main contenders to be vying for fourth.
Valencia achieved the feat last term after a number of seasons in the doldrums and are a best price 2/1 to repeat fourth place again this campaign with Sevilla at 11/4 and Villarreal at 4/1.
However, why not try an alternative, Real Sociedad has looked strong in recent seasons and is currently at around 5/1 to make the top four which is not a bad outside bet or alternatively Athletic Bilbao are pitched in at around 9/1 which is valuable if they manage to get their act together.
