LaLiga 2018/19: 5 reasons to get excited about the new season

#2 An Unpredictable Title Race

Any of Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Athletico Madrid could lift the title this season

All three of the top Spanish teams enter this season as champions. Barcelona as La Liga champions, Real Madrid as Champions League winners, and Athletico Madrid as Europa League winners.

While Barcelona begins the season as favourites to retain the league title, it would come as no shock if either Madrid team sat at the peak of La Liga come May. Each club should rightly have aspirations to lift the championship this season and there are many intriguing subplots to the title race.

The departure of Cristiano Ronaldo and Zinedine Zidane were huge blows for Real Madrid. However, it also represents an opportunity for Los Blancos. Ronaldo's transfer to Juventus removes the talisman from Real but also creates the chance to play as more of a team for the coming season.

While everything went through Ronaldo last season, this year play could be spread around the midfield and forward lines more evenly and benefit the style of play. Appointing Julen Lopetegui as manager could also play in the hands of Madrid as he will bring hunger and desire to a squad which may have otherwise lacked motivation.

Athletico Madrid also has reasons to be optimistic coming into the season. A superb Super Cup victory over their city rivals will instill belief throughout the squad and some canny transfer business has significantly strengthened the team.

The major signing of Thomas Lemar could prove essential for an assault on the title by Athletico. The 22-year-old will slot nicely into Simeone's preferred formations and his versatility across the attacking lines will allow the Argentinian manager to use him in multiple positions if necessary.

Of course, Barcelona remains the team to beat and it will be fascinating to see if either Madrid team can challenge Messi and company for the league title.

Next Up, #1 La Liga's Revolutionary Partnerships.