Sevilla's season depends on the continued form of strikers Freddy Kanoute and Luis Fabiano and winger Jesus Navas.

If Kanoute continues to struggle with injuries while his Brazilian strike partner focuses more on a lucrative transfer at the end of the season, Sevilla could struggle. That is bad news for coach Alvaro Alcaraz, given that club president Jose Maria del Nido is not a patient man.

Atletico Madrid looks to have bought well to tighten up in defense with the arrivals of Godin and Felipe Luis. Meanwhile the return of Thiago Cardoso on loan and the signing of Fran Merida should give Quique Sanchez Flores' side creativity in midfield.

Perhaps just as important is the fact that the club has retained the services of star strikers Kun Aguero and Diego Forlan, which means Atletico should be candidates for a top four finish.

Elsewhere a Villarreal side based on the exciting players from its youth system could also mount a top four challenge, while Athletic Club Bilbao will be hoping to continue its improvements under coach Joaquin Caparros.

Athletic has several exciting young players such as Mikel san Jose and Markel Susaeta, while Spain internationals Fernando Llorente and Javi Martinez will be vital for any top six challenge.

Mallorca and Getafe finished fifth and sixth last season, but their squads look to be weaker this time around.

Economic problems saw Mallorca kicked out of Europe and new coach Michael Laudrup will do well to fashion a competitive side following the departure of nearly all of his best players. Indeed Mallorca kicks off the season among the favorites for relegation.

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