Liga: Lamine Yamal’s jewels, Raphinha’s explosion, Pedri the master of the game… The highlights of Barça’s 28th title
Espanyol Barcelona will eventually apply for a derogation from playing Barça in the final rounds of La Liga. Just as they did in 2023, the Blaugrana were crowned Spanish champions at their neighbors’ ground on Thursday evening. With a seven-point lead over Real Madrid with two rounds remaining, Hansi Flick’s pupils can no longer be caught by their arch-rivals.
This 28th La Liga title in the Catalan club’s history punctuates an incredible season, somewhat overshadowed by their elimination from the Champions League semi-finals by Inter Milan at the end of a Homeric double-header. But with a pleasing style of play, a high-powered defense and a host of individual talents, Barça were on cloud nine. And some players more than others.
Lamine Yamal, potential Ballon d’Or winner
The second half of the season was far less impressive in statistical terms. But it only took two games for Lamine Yamal to set everyone right. With two magnificent goals against Real Madrid and Espanyol Barcelona, the boy from La Masia punctuated a marvellous 2024-2025 campaign (which is not yet over): 8 goals and 15 assists in 33 La Liga games.
He became the first player to win two Spanish championships at the tender age of 18. And he could even become the youngest ever Ballon d’Or winner. Competing with Ousmane Dembélé and his team-mate Raphinha (among others), Lamine Yamal almost enabled the Catalans to win the title.