Football club Barcelona and Real Madrid are again expected to dominate the competition as the Spanish La Liga prepares to kick off the new season next weekend.

The economic power of Spain's two biggest clubs, which comes partly through their lucrative TV contracts, means the battle for the title is almost certain to be a two-horse race.

Last season saw Barcelona edge out Real Madrid for the second successive season, winning the title by three points. But just as revealing was the fact that Madrid finished 25 points ahead of third placed Valencia and 33 points above Sevilla, the side that finished fourth and while Madrid's squad looks stronger this time around, those of Valencia and Sevilla do not.

Barcelona will look to defend its title and coach Pep Guardiola has got his side playing possible the best football in the World. This season Barcelona will be able to field eight members of the triumphant Spanish World Cup winning squad, plus Leo Messi, who is considered to be the best player in the World.

Barcelona's squad has suffered few changes from last season. striker David Villa has arrived from Valencia and will guarantee at least 20 goals a season, while former Sevilla player Adriano offers cover in a variety of defensive and midfield roles.

Barca will miss the presence of Toure Yaya, who has joined Manchester City, while Rafael Marquez, Thierry Henry and Chygrynskiy have all left the club.

The summer saw Pep Guardiola put his faith in players from the club's productive youth system, but there is a feeling that Barcelona's squad could lack depth if injuries strike key players during a long season.

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