European Football Weekly: La Liga Drama, Premier League Chaos & More
⚽ La Liga: Real Madrid in Crisis
Real Madrid suffered a shocking defeat at the hands of Valencia, a team that was battling relegation just weeks ago. Once again, the cracks in Ancelotti’s defense were wide open, and the fans are no longer silent—they're furious.
"The fans believe they understand Real Madrid more than Ancelotti himself."
The real issue? Poor defensive coordination and the lack of a reliable penalty taker. VinÃcius Jr., Bellingham, and even Mbappé (reportedly) aren’t strong from the spot. Ancelotti needs to train a designated penalty expert—perhaps someone like Valverde?
Defensively, mistakes keep repeating. Alaba's form has been disastrous, and teammates like Vázquez and Tchouaméni are struggling to hold the line. It’s causing a ripple effect that even solid players like Rüdiger and Fran GarcÃa can’t resist.
Real have now conceded 12 goals from set-pieces this season—an alarming stat ahead of their upcoming clash with Arsenal, one of the best teams in the world when it comes to corners and free kicks.
🔥 Premier League: Everyone's Struggling
The English Premier League isn't faring any better. Liverpool may be leading the table, but their form is inconsistent. Arsenal, their closest challenger, also dropped points against Everton. The top of the table looks weak, but the battle for European spots is fierce.
- Liverpool lost to Fulham 3-2
- Arsenal drew with Everton
- Man City, Chelsea, and Spurs all show signs of instability
Even Mohamed Salah's form has dipped, while Man United only seem to turn up when it's a derby. Casemiro, however, shined against City with an 11-tackle performance—the highest for any player in a match vs. Guardiola's City since 2008.
🇪🇸 Barcelona Hanging On
Despite Real Madrid's collapse, Barcelona failed to capitalize. They were held to a draw by Real Betis, whose manager Manuel Pellegrini is proving to be a tactical mastermind. He’s the only La Liga coach to remain unbeaten against Barça and Real this season.
"Barcelona looked tired and lacked sharpness — fatigue from packed fixtures is catching up."
Javi was the standout performer, while Ferran Torres and Koundé wasted key chances. Raphinha continues to look lost after Brazil's national team drama, and Pedri seems to be their only consistent creator.
🇮🇹 Serie A: Title Race Heats Up
Inter Milan slipped up against Parma, drawing 2-2 after leading 2-0. This opened the door for Napoli, who could close the gap to just one point with a win over Bologna.
Meanwhile, all eyes are on Inter's upcoming clash with Bayern Munich in the Europa League, though Bayern have suffered massive injuries to key players including Jamal Musiala, Alphonso Davies, and Upamecano.
🇫🇷 Ligue 1: PSG Crowned Again
Paris Saint-Germain clinched their 13th Ligue 1 title after defeating Angers. They remain unbeaten this season and could replicate Arsenal’s 'Invincibles' campaign if they keep it up.
Now, Luis Enrique’s team will turn their full attention to the UEFA Champions League, with a tough clash against Aston Villa on the horizon.
💬 What’s your take on Real Madrid’s collapse and the EPL chaos? Let us know in the comments!