Real Madrid's recent acquisition of Kylian Mbappé has sparked discussions about the team's chances of repeating their LaLiga title success from last season. Despite finishing 10 points clear at the top of the table in 2023-24 and strengthening their squad with the addition of Mbappé on a free transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, LaLiga president Javier Tebas has emphasized that the arrival of a star player does not always translate to immediate success.
Tebas pointed out that the departures of key players like Toni Kroos and Nacho Fernández, coupled with the unpredictable nature of football, make it challenging to predict Madrid's performance in the upcoming season. He highlighted that winning the league with Mbappé on board does not guarantee an even earlier triumph, emphasizing the importance of various factors in determining a team's success.
While acknowledging the impact of Mbappé's arrival, Tebas also noted that other top players like Antoine Griezmann, Robert Lewandowski, Pedri, and Lamine Yamal are poised to make significant contributions in the league.
On the other hand, Barcelona, Madrid's traditional rivals, have faced financial constraints in recent years, limiting their ability to make significant signings. However, Tebas suggested that Barcelona is now in a better position to invest in players, hinting at a potential deal for Spain and Athletic Club winger Nico Williams.
Regarding technological advancements in LaLiga, the league confirmed the introduction of semi-automated offside technology for the upcoming season. Despite calls for goal-line technology implementation, Tebas defended LaLiga's decision to rely on VAR for goal-line decisions, citing concerns about the accuracy of existing technology.
Tebas argued that goal-line technology is not flawless and highlighted the limitations of current systems in accurately determining whether the ball has crossed the line. He emphasized that while VAR helps resolve many contentious decisions, the quest for perfection in technology remains ongoing.
As LaLiga prepares for the 2024-25 season, the league's approach to technology and team dynamics continues to be a subject of debate, setting the stage for an intriguing campaign ahead.
