Three years ago, Iker Muniain found himself being lauded as a major part of a talented Athletic Bilbao side who wowed worldwide audiences as they ripped through Manchester United on the way to the Europa League final. Playing as part of a front three alongside Fernando Llorente and Markel Susaeta, Muniain flourished and was heralded as one of the best young players in the world. Although Bilbao were defeated in the Europa League final by Atletico Madrid, Muniain’s stock went through the roof. Soon links with the world’s biggest clubs were being made, hyperinflated valuations were being placed … [Read more...]
The best La Liga XI of the 21st Century
La Liga has hosted many of the modern day greats. Yet, many pundits in the United Kingdom are keen to criticise the apparent monopolization of resources by Barcelona and Real Madrid. Is this really any different to Manchester United and Liverpool until recently, anyway? Or in Germany where Bayern Munich essentially buy off the competition? Or about in Italy where Juventus appear to be on track for a fourth Serie A title? Since 2000, five, yes five different teams in La Liga have won the league. This number is more than all the other major leagues, including England. Valencia, Deportivo, … [Read more...]
Five things the Premier League can learn from La Liga
For once let us not get into this subjective and yet a futile debate on whether La Liga is better than the Premier League and vice-versa. Why can’t we be happy with the notion that both are great leagues in their own right and have enriched the beautiful game in various manners. … [Read more...]
Benzema leads our La Liga team of the week
Almeria goalkeeper Julian was huge for the relegation strugglers over the last round of games, and is the first name on the list in La liga Blog’s Team of the Round. … [Read more...]
Has Torres been reborn?
Every self-respecting football fan is well aware of Fernando Torres' sad decline over the last four years. He went from being a Euro 2008 winning player. And match-winner in that final, to a misfiring shell of his former self. While, I believe we saw a slight resurgence of Torres under Rafa's brief stewardship, it was nothing to get too excited about. More importantly, he'd show signs of class but that'd quickly disappear. However since returning 'home' to the Vincente Calderon, a new wave of optimism has been borne. His two goals against Real Madrid have largely contributed to this. In his … [Read more...]