Barcelona, Real Face Contrasting Tests As La Liga Returns

Barcelona and Real Madrid return to La Liga this weekend with contrasting challenges, as the leaders host struggling Getafe while Madrid face an in-form Villarreal side.

Barcelona top the table with 21 points from seven matches and have won all their league games, scoring 31 goals.

They will be confident against a Getafe side yet to score away from home this season.

Hansi Flick’s side have been in devastating attacking form, with Raphinha scoring a hattrick in the 3-1 win over Sevilla.

The Brazilian leads Barcelona’s league scoring with 12 goals, while Lamine Yamal has seven goals and four assists.

Barcelona could, however, be without Raphinha due to a thigh problem, while Joan Garcia is doubtful.

Andreas Christensen, Frenkie de Jong and Roony Bardghji are also unavailable. Real Madrid, meanwhile, will seek a response when they host Villarreal after losing 2-1 to Atletico Madrid before the international break.

The defeat left Jose Mourinho’s side fourth on 15 points, six behind Barcelona, making victory important if they are to remain in touch with the leaders. Madrid have been perfect at home, winning all three league matches and scoring 12 goals.

However, defensive concerns remain, with only one clean sheet in seven matches. Their problems could worsen with Dean Huijsen suspended, Raul Asencio injured and Ibrahima Konate doubtful.

Eder Militao is also still unavailable, while Kylian Mbappe is a major doubt after picking up a knee problem on international duty.

Mbappe has scored seven league goals this season, making his possible absence a major concern for Madrid.

Villarreal arrive with confidence after back-to-back 3-1 victories over Malaga and Levante.

They have scored 13 goals in seven league games and will hope to exploit Madrid’s defensive weaknesses.