Last weekend changed everything in La Liga. A title race in which Barcelona seemed in control was thrown open again. When La Liga restarted in January, Barcelona were top with 46 points, four clear of Real Madrid. The Catalans' return to form was impressive: two wins from two including a comfortable league victory over Espanyol and a place secured in the Super Cup final in Saudi Arabia. This was to be Xabi Alonso's last match in charge of Real Madrid, as he stepped down the following day.

Source: BBC January 23, 2026 20:11 UTC