At the start of every season, LaLiga fans ask the same question: Will this be yet another head-to-head title race between the two giants, Real Madrid and Barcelona? Or will Atletico Madrid mount a serious third-party challenge for the crown?
Over the past 10 years, Atletico have consistently punched above their weight. Under coach Diego Simeone they've won the league twice -- in 2014 and 2021 -- and finished second in 2018 and 2019, breaking up the big two. They haven't finished outside the top three since 2012.
It's the most consistent spell in the club's history, but improved performance has raised expectations.