"Defending champions Barcelona were Spain's "Christmas champions," heading into the break with a four-point lead at the top of the table despite losing the first Clásico of the season against their bitter rivals 2-1 back in October. Despite turning their stadium into a winter wonderland over the festive period, the Bernabéu has not been a happy place for Real Madrid,"
"- How Alonso's Real Madrid start compares to Mourinho, Ancelotti, Zidane -Hunter's midseason verdicts: Barça lead the way, but is there a title race? -Messi, Ronaldo, Mbappé, Haaland, Kane? Who was 2025's top goal scorer? Atlético Madrid and Villarreal round out the top four as the season approaches the halfway point, and neither team should be discounted from making a push into the top two before the campaign is over."
After an 11-day winter break LaLiga resumes. Barcelona lead by four points and earned the 'Christmas champions' tag despite an earlier 2-1 Clásico loss in October. Key players Raphinha and Pedri have returned from injury and Barcelona recorded eight straight LaLiga wins before the break. Real Madrid have suffered disappointing results, prompting speculation over Xabi Alonso's job security, but Kylian Mbappé's excellent form offers revival hope. Atlético Madrid and Villarreal occupy third and fourth and remain capable of challenging for higher places before the season's second half. On current form, Madrid face a difficult task to overtake Barcelona.
Read at ESPN.com
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