Barcelona’s record-breaking start to the 2026–27 campaign has given the impression that the two Madrid clubs may well be merely fighting for second place in La Liga.
Real Madrid retooled well in the summer and are enjoying the honeymoon phase of José Mourinho’s return. Madrid’s new Gálacticos have embraced a supposedly calmer Mourinho, and a harsh defeat at Real Betis is the only blemish on their record to date.
