La Liga Round 11 features Barcelona seeking a comeback against Alaves after their Clasico defeat, while Atletico Madrid target the top spot against Levante. The Basque derby between Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad headlines a weekend of Spanish football action.
Atletico Madrid will have an opportunity to move temporarily to the top of the La Liga standings when they face Levante away from home, while Barcelona aim to recover from their Clasico defeat against Alaves in the 11th round of Spanish league fixtures. Sunday’s Basque derby between Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad is also expected to attract significant attention as traditional rivals prepare to meet at San Mames.
The weekend’s action begins on Friday night, when Villarreal host Espanyol. Espanyol recently dismissed coach Manolo Gonzalez following the club’s Copa del Rey exit. Although Eder Sarabia has been announced as his replacement, B-team coach Sergio Garcia is expected to take charge of the team for Friday’s match. Espanyol will look to overcome their recent difficulties against a Villarreal side playing on home turf.
Atletico Madrid’s away fixture against Levante on Saturday presents Diego Simeone’s team with an opportunity to put pressure on their title rivals. A victory would allow Atletico to move to the top of the standings, at least temporarily, depending on other results. Argentine forward Julian Alvarez is expected to play an important role in the team’s attacking plans.
However, Levante could prove a difficult opponent. The hosts have demonstrated their ability to challenge established sides, having secured home victories against Real Betis and Athletic Bilbao. Atletico will therefore need to combine attacking quality with defensive discipline to secure the three points.
Barcelona, meanwhile, return to action at home against Alaves on Saturday night, hoping to respond positively after consecutive defeats. The Catalan club face concerns over injuries, with Xavi Espart among the latest players ruled out. Defender Jules Kounde could return from an ankle injury, potentially providing a boost to coach Hansi Flick as Barcelona attempt to regain momentum.
Alaves arrive in Barcelona after a difficult spell following their encouraging start to the campaign. The team has recorded four defeats and two draws since its last victory on September 6. Barcelona will look to take advantage of their home conditions, although they must avoid underestimating opponents seeking to end their disappointing run.
Real Betis will also attempt to return to winning ways when they host Malaga on Saturday. Betis have suffered a defeat against Barcelona and played out a goalless draw with Celta Vigo in their recent matches. Malaga, meanwhile, are still searching for their first victory in 11 league games since returning to La Liga. Coach Juanfran Funes’ side came close to breaking that run last weekend but conceded a late setback against Alaves. Saturday’s programme also includes Rayo Vallecano’s home match against Celta Vigo.
Sunday’s headline fixture is the Basque derby between Athletic Bilbao and Real Sociedad at San Mames. The encounter carries considerable local significance, with both clubs looking to claim regional bragging rights and valuable league points. Athletic could welcome midfielder Oihan Sancet back after a muscle injury, while Spain international Aymeric Laporte is available again following suspension. His return comes after Athletic’s 4-0 home victory over Getafe last weekend.
Getafe face another challenging assignment as they take on Sevilla. Getafe need to improve their defensive performance after conceding nine goals across their previous two matches. Sevilla, under coach Luis Garcia Plaza, have made a positive start to the season. Garcia Plaza’s previous experience as Getafe coach adds another point of interest to the contest.
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Elsewhere on Sunday, Racing Santander will play at home, while Elche welcome Valencia. Valencia remain second from bottom in the standings and have managed only two draws and one defeat since Javier Aguirre took over as coach. Their task is further complicated by the absence of teenage winger David Otorbi, who is recovering from a right hamstring injury.
The 11th round concludes on Monday, when Deportivo La Coruna host Osasuna. With Barcelona seeking a response, Atletico chasing the summit and the Basque derby promising an intense local contest, the weekend offers several important tests for clubs looking to improve their positions in La Liga.
