La Liga 2017/18: A Season of Triumphs and Challenges

The 2017/18 La Liga season was a captivating chapter in the history of Spanish football. Known for its intense competition and world-class talent, La Liga once again delivered a season filled with drama, skill, and unforgettable moments. This article delves into the intricacies of the 2017/18 La Liga table, exploring the performances of top teams, standout players, and the overall impact of the season on Spanish football.

Overview of the 2017/18 La Liga Season

The 2017/18 La Liga season, officially known as the La Liga Santander due to sponsorship reasons, was the 87th edition of Spain’s top-flight football league. The season commenced on August 18, 2017, and concluded on May 20, 2018. Featuring 20 teams, the league was a battleground for some of the world’s most prestigious clubs, including FC Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atlético Madrid.

Key Highlights

• FC Barcelona emerged as the champions, securing their 25th La Liga title.
• Lionel Messi was the top scorer, winning the Pichichi Trophy with 34 goals.
• Deportivo La Coruña, Las Palmas, and Málaga were relegated to the Segunda División.
• Valencia CF made a strong comeback, finishing fourth and securing a Champions League spot.

FC Barcelona: Dominance and Excellence

FC Barcelona’s performance in the 2017/18 season was nothing short of spectacular. Under the management of Ernesto Valverde, Barcelona demonstrated consistency and resilience, losing only one match throughout the season. Their dominance was evident as they clinched the title with several games to spare.

Key Players

Barcelona’s success was largely attributed to the brilliance of their star players:

• Lionel Messi: The Argentine maestro was instrumental in Barcelona’s triumph, scoring 34 goals and providing numerous assists.
• Andrés Iniesta: The veteran midfielder’s vision and leadership were crucial in orchestrating Barcelona’s play.
• Marc-André ter Stegen: The German goalkeeper was a formidable presence between the posts, making crucial saves throughout the season.

Real Madrid: A Season of Mixed Fortunes

Real Madrid, the reigning champions from the previous season, experienced a rollercoaster campaign in 2017/18. Despite their struggles in the league, they found solace in their European exploits, winning the UEFA Champions League for the third consecutive time.

Challenges Faced

Several factors contributed to Real Madrid’s inconsistent league performance:

• Injury Woes: Key players like Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema faced injuries, affecting the team’s attacking prowess.
• Defensive Vulnerabilities: The team struggled with defensive lapses, conceding goals at crucial moments.
• Managerial Changes: Zinedine Zidane’s mid-season departure created instability within the squad.

Atlético Madrid: Consistency and Resilience

Atlético Madrid, under the stewardship of Diego Simeone, continued to be a formidable force in Spanish football. Known for their defensive solidity and tactical discipline, Atlético finished second in the league, showcasing their ability to compete with the best.

Defensive Mastery

Atlético’s success was built on a rock-solid defense, led by players like:

• Jan Oblak: The Slovenian goalkeeper was a standout performer, earning the Zamora Trophy for the best goals-to-games ratio.
• Diego Godín: The Uruguayan defender was a commanding presence, organizing the backline with precision.

Valencia CF: The Resurgence

Valencia CF’s resurgence was one of the most compelling stories of the 2017/18 season. After years of underperformance, Valencia secured a top-four finish, earning a coveted spot in the UEFA Champions League.

Factors Behind the Revival

Several factors contributed to Valencia’s impressive campaign:

• Managerial Stability: Marcelino García Toral’s appointment brought tactical acumen and stability to the team.
• Young Talent: Players like Gonçalo Guedes and Carlos Soler emerged as key contributors, injecting energy and creativity into the squad.
• Defensive Organization: Valencia’s defense was well-organized, conceding fewer goals than in previous seasons.

Relegation Battle: The Struggle for Survival

The battle to avoid relegation was fiercely contested, with several teams fighting to retain their top-flight status. Ultimately, Deportivo La Coruña, Las Palmas, and Málaga were unable to secure enough points to stay in La Liga.

Key Factors in Relegation

The relegated teams faced numerous challenges:

• Inconsistent Performances: A lack of consistency in results plagued these teams throughout the season.
• Defensive Frailties: Conceding too many goals proved costly in their quest for survival.
• Managerial Instability: Frequent changes in management disrupted team cohesion and strategy.

Impact of the 2017/18 Season on Spanish Football

The 2017/18 La Liga season had a significant impact on Spanish football, influencing both domestic and international perceptions of the league. The season highlighted the competitive nature of La Liga, showcasing the depth of talent and tactical innovation present in Spanish football.

International Recognition

La Liga’s reputation as one of the world’s premier football leagues was further solidified by:

• European Success: Spanish clubs continued to excel in European competitions, with Real Madrid winning the Champions League and Atlético Madrid clinching the Europa League.
• Global Audience: The league’s global reach expanded, attracting viewers from around the world and enhancing its commercial appeal.

Conclusion: A Season to Remember

The 2017/18 La Liga season was a testament to the enduring allure of Spanish football. From Barcelona’s dominance to Valencia’s resurgence, the season was filled with narratives that captivated fans and analysts alike.