<p>One of the soccer fans’ favorite things to debate is how strong one league is compared to another. A club winning La Liga, such as Real Madrid this season, is not the same task as one of the three clubs battling it out in the Premier League. Given the differences in the quality of the opposition and the fact that these are domestic leagues, it is nearly impossible to directly compare leagues.</p>



<p>One way to compare the two is to use Opta’s power rankings. Opta, a British sports analytics firm, assigns an ability score to each team worldwide. On this scale, the top team in the world, Manchester City, has an ability score of 100. By contrast, the worst team in the world has an ability score of zero. Clubs earn points on their <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2023/01/power-rankings-your-club-ranked/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Elo rating</a> by beating teams ranking higher than them. Consequently, losing to teams with a lower rating deducts more points from a side’s ability score.</p>



<p>It is a vastly technical process that the number wizards at Opta have been practicing for some time. While there will never be a perfect way to analyze clubs and leagues across competitions, this is perhaps the best holistic approach.</p>



<h2>The top 30 men’s soccer leagues in the world</h2>



<p>The following ratings are the average club rating for every team in a domestic league as of April 3, 2024. These numbers constantly change with the world’s leagues in action. With continental competition, for example, these numbers change often.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>RANK</td><td>LEAGUE</td><td>AVERAGE CLUB RATING</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Premier League</td><td>87.59</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>La Liga</td><td>84.8</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Serie A</td><td>84.7</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Bundesliga</td><td>84.3</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Ligue 1</td><td>83.6</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Primeira Liga</td><td>77.47</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>English Championship</td><td>76.38</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Superligaen</td><td>76.12</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>La Liga 2 (Segunda)</td><td>75.48</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Brasileirao</td><td>75.31</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Liga MX</td><td>75.16</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Russian Premier League</td><td>75.15</td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>Major League Soccer</td><td>75.1</td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Swiss Super League</td><td>74.81</td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Eredivisie</td><td>74.79</td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Turkish Super Lig</td><td>74.54</td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>Argentine Primera</td><td>74.53</td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>2. Bundesliga</td><td>74.39</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Austrian Bundesliga</td><td>74.21</td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>HNL Croatia</td><td>74.03</td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>K League</td><td>73.49</td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>J League</td><td>73.39</td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>Eliteserien</td><td>72.99</td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>Allsvenskan</td><td>72.18</td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>Cyprus First Division</td><td>72.08</td></tr><tr><td>26</td><td>Saudi Pro League</td><td>72.01</td></tr><tr><td>27</td><td>Czech First League</td><td>71.81</td></tr><tr><td>28</td><td>Greek Super League</td><td>70.76</td></tr><tr><td>29</td><td>Scottish Premiership</td><td>70.25</td></tr><tr><td>30</td><td>Ekstraklasa</td><td>69.41</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p>If you need any indication of how fast these rankings can change, look no further than two weeks prior. Again, these rankings apply specifically to April 3, 2024. On March 26, 2024, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mls-breaks-into-top-10-strongest-leagues-in-the-world/">Major League Soccer cracked the top 10</a>. Now, it is no longer the highest-rated league in North America. Instead, that honor belongs to Liga MX. </p>



<p>Since those rankings from just a few weeks ago, Liga MX sides have had strong results against Major League Soccer in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240403_WST_499198_Club-America-New-England-1200x670_16a60e5c.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-499228" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Club-America-New-England-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Club-America-New-England-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Club-America-New-England-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Club-America-New-England.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Averages ranked among the top soccer leagues in the world</h2>



<p>Looking at the above chart, certain teams from those leagues prop up each of those leagues. The Eredivisie is one example. PSV Eindhoven and Feyenoord rank in the top 40 clubs in the world. However, those two clubs are dragged down by Vitesse, Excelsior and Volendam. None of those clubs creep into the top 900 clubs in the world. Consequently, the league’s average ranks it as No. 15 in the world. </p>



<p>On the other hand, having a compact league can help the rankings. Major League Soccer shows that, as the highest-ranking team is the Columbus Crew, at No. 145. Twenty-five of MLS’s 29 teams are inside the top 500 clubs in the world That greatly helps the league’s positioning on average.</p>



<p>That said, here are the top clubs from each of those divisions to get a grasp on where they fall. The league rank on the left side is where the average falls. As a result, the best club’s rating will not follow numerical order.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>League Rank</td><td>League</td><td>Best rated club</td><td>Best club’s rating</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Premier League</td><td>Manchester City</td><td>100</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>La Liga</td><td>Real Madrid</td><td>97.5</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Serie A</td><td>Inter Milan</td><td>97.3</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Bundesliga</td><td>Bayer Leverkusen</td><td>94</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Ligue 1</td><td>PSG</td><td>95.2</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Primeira Liga</td><td>Sporting CP</td><td>89.7</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Championship</td><td>Leeds</td><td>83.6</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Superligaen</td><td>Kobenhavn</td><td>82.6</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Segunda Division</td><td>Eibar</td><td>78.5</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Brasileirao</td><td>Palmeiras</td><td>80.6</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Liga MX</td><td>Club America</td><td>83.1</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Russian Premier League</td><td>Zenit</td><td>82.8</td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>MLS</td><td>Columbus Crew</td><td>79.6</td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Swiss Super League</td><td>Young Boys</td><td>80.8</td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Eredivisie</td><td>PSV Eindhoven</td><td>88.6</td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Turkish Super Lig</td><td>Fenerbahce</td><td>86</td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>Argentine Primera</td><td>River Plate</td><td>80.8</td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>2. Bundesliga</td><td>St. Pauli</td><td>80.4</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Austrian Bundesliga</td><td>RB Salzburg</td><td>86.3</td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>HNL (Croatia)</td><td>Dinamo Zagreb</td><td>82</td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>K League</td><td>Ulsan</td><td>78</td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>J League</td><td>Vissel Kobe</td><td>78.4</td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>Eliteserien</td><td>Bodo/Glimt</td><td>82.6</td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>Allsvenskan</td><td>Malmo FF</td><td>77.8</td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>Cyprus First division</td><td>APOEL</td><td>79.7</td></tr><tr><td>26</td><td>Saudi Pro League</td><td>Al Hilal</td><td>86.4</td></tr><tr><td>27</td><td>Czech</td><td>Slavia Praha</td><td>83.7</td></tr><tr><td>28</td><td>Greek Super League</td><td>PAOK</td><td>81.3</td></tr><tr><td>29</td><td>Scottish Premiership</td><td>Rangers</td><td>83.1</td></tr><tr><td>30</td><td>Ekstraklasa</td><td>Rakow Czestochowa</td><td>79.1</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<h2>Looking at the ‘best of the worst’ clubs in each league</h2>



<p>It would also be fair to see the bottom half of these extremes to even out.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Rank</td><td>League</td><td>Worst rated club</td><td>Worst club’s rating</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Premier League</td><td>Sheffield United</td><td>79.3</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>La Liga</td><td>Almeria</td><td>76.5</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Serie A</td><td>Salernitana</td><td>76.5</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Bundesliga</td><td>Darmstadt 98</td><td>76.6</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Ligue 1</td><td>Metz</td><td>76.8</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>Primeira Liga</td><td>Portimonense</td><td>70.9</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>Championship</td><td>Rotherham United</td><td>69.6</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Superligaen</td><td>Hvidovre</td><td>69.5</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>Segunda Division</td><td>Villarreal II</td><td>71.3</td></tr><tr><td>10</td><td>Brasileirao</td><td>Criciuma</td><td>72.7</td></tr><tr><td>11</td><td>Liga MX</td><td>Juarez</td><td>69.6</td></tr><tr><td>12</td><td>Russian Premier League</td><td>Sochi</td><td>71.2</td></tr><tr><td>13</td><td>MLS</td><td>Toronto FC</td><td>69.6</td></tr><tr><td>14</td><td>Swiss Super League</td><td>Stade-Lausanne-Ouchy</td><td>69.6</td></tr><tr><td>15</td><td>Eredivisie</td><td>Volendam</td><td>66.5</td></tr><tr><td>16</td><td>Turkish Super Lig</td><td>Istanbulspor</td><td>66.7</td></tr><tr><td>17</td><td>Argentine Primera</td><td>Tigre</td><td>70.1</td></tr><tr><td>18</td><td>2. Bundesliga</td><td>Hansa Rostock</td><td>70.2</td></tr><tr><td>19</td><td>Austrian Bundesliga</td><td>Austria Lustenau</td><td>67.1</td></tr><tr><td>20</td><td>HNL (Croatia)</td><td>Rudes</td><td>65.5</td></tr><tr><td>21</td><td>K League</td><td>Suwon</td><td>68.6</td></tr><tr><td>22</td><td>J League</td><td>Sagan Tosu</td><td>69.8</td></tr><tr><td>23</td><td>Eliteserien</td><td>Sandefjord</td><td>68.7</td></tr><tr><td>24</td><td>Allsvenskan</td><td>Halmstad</td><td>68.5</td></tr><tr><td>25</td><td>Cyprus First division</td><td>AE Zakakiou</td><td>63.6</td></tr><tr><td>26</td><td>Saudi Pro League</td><td>Al Hazm</td><td>65.7</td></tr><tr><td>27</td><td>Czech</td><td>Ceske Budejovice</td><td>65.4</td></tr><tr><td>28</td><td>Greek Super League</td><td>Kifisia</td><td>63.5</td></tr><tr><td>29</td><td>Scottish Premiership</td><td>Livingston</td><td>62.6</td></tr><tr><td>30</td><td>Ekstraklasa</td><td>Lks Lodz</td><td>67.4</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="Opta Sports Analytics - Behind The Scenes And Interviews With The Sports Data Mavens" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ySlAzS8Oouw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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Top soccer leagues in the world as ranked by Opta

The top soccer leagues in the world are nearly impossible to be ranked accurately. One metric provides insight as to where they stand.

Top soccer leagues in the world as ranked by Opta - World Soccer Talk

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<p>The impending departure of Xavi from Barcelona has several key ramifications. For one, the club is losing an icon because he claims it will release the tension within the club, perhaps attributing the massive pressure of managing <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a> to personal struggles. This also means Barcelona will be back in the market for a manager. Whoever replaces Xavi is going to be the fifth permanent Barcelona manager in six seasons. </p>



<p>Rampant managerial change can work for some clubs. Barcelona is not one of those. With the financial constraint on Barcelona, the club needs consistency from its supposed leaders. Moreover, the club is in a peculiar position where it has a dependency on young players. Teenagers like Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, Vitor Roque and Gavi can use the experience of a manager like Xavi to further their development. Yet, even without the playing expertise of Xavi, these players need one consistent guide.</p>



<p>Barcelona found a manager who understands the identity of the club, something that disappeared since the departure of Luis Enrique in 2017. It has been far from perfect. Barcelona is not going to win <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/la-liga-tv-schedule/">LaLiga</a> this season after shocking performances at home against the likes of Girona, Villarreal and Real Madrid. Yet, there have been flashes of some of the Barcelona style of play that Xavi was brought up on. </p>



<p>Additionally, Barcelona must retain Xavi because of his desire and drive with the club. Previous managers sat on the bench and let the game go on. It became a matter of letting Lionel Messi or one of the elder players be the impetus in guiding the club to success. That changed under Xavi. An emotional leader, Xavi brought back the passion of a club in a stadium like Camp Nou that had turned into a quiet cathedral of soccer. Going back to Pedri’s stunning goal to beat Sevilla in the 2021/22 campaign, Xavi has instilled energy at Barcelona. Take his two dismissals from the touchline as the primary example. As a midfielder, he had one red card in his career. Now, he is readily available to defend his players in any situation. </p>



<h2>Maintaining the development of Barcelona’s young stars</h2>



<p>For better or for worse, Barcelona has been forced into a situation where it <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/la-masia-continues-to-pay-dividends-for-cash-strapped-barcelona-20231023-WST-464128.html">depended on young graduates of La Masia</a>. Consequently, the Catalan club has used the aforementioned teenagers without caution. It falls on the manager to make the call as to put the teenagers in key situations. Few can look at 16-year-old Lamine Yamal or 17-year-old Pau Cubarsi and take issue with them. Xavi is the one that took the risk.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240402_WST_498967_Xavi-development-1200x670_b3937938.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-498984" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Xavi-development-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Xavi-development-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Xavi-development-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Xavi-development.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>Barcelona needed a risk taker as a manager, and that is what they got in Xavi. Even if some of it was a forced hand because of Barcelona’s financial struggles, Xavi recognized the talent that he had at his disposal. At the same time, he understood how to get the most out of each of these players. For example, he isolates Lamine Yamal on the wing to allow him to use his speed and dribbling. In the case of Pau Cubarsi, the defender needs the insurance that a mistake will not cost him or the team. Therefore, Xavi always puts the 17-year-old between Jules Kounde and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/barcelona-willing-to-sell-ronald-araujo-in-summer-for-huge-price/">one of the other center-backs</a>. In doing so, Xavi lets Cubarsi express himself more with his passing ability, which already stands out among the side’s back line.</p>



<p>Xavi’s development of these young players has freed the club from depending on lofty transfer deals on some of the best players in the world. </p>



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<h2>The manager hunt will not be cheap</h2>



<p>Barcelona will struggle to find a manager that is willing to gamble like Xavi. Much of that comes from the fact that no Barcelona supporter could ever dislike Xavi. His playing days in the midfield ensured his legendary status for the club. </p>



<p>Yet, even if Barcelona finds its perfect managerial candidate, it will not come cheap. As of now, there are two likely replacements for Xavi. The first is Brighton and Hove Albion boss Roberto de Zerbi. Then, Sporting CP manager Ruben Amorim is also in the mix. Both the Italian and the Portuguese are under contract at their new clubs for the foreseeable future. According to some reports, Amorim would cost Barcelona around <a href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/barcelona-ruben-amorim-liverpool-manager-32495072" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">$16 million</a> if the Spanish side wants to pry the manager away from Sporting. </p>



<p>That would be a painful irony for Barcelona. It would sacrifice its manager, who says leaving the club will help it find its footing for the future. At the same time, it would pay top funds for a manager. In fairness, both Amorim and de Zerbi have proven that they can work a great team without overly spending. Yet, Barcelona should work to retain its manager that will not cost some form of a transfer fee.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>

Why Barcelona needs Xavi to stay despite desire to leave the club

To avoid financial restrictions and to promote growth, Barcelona must do whatever it can to convince Xavi to stay on as manager.

<p>Real Madrid made headlines in the early 2000s as it bought major star after major star. David Beckham, Zinedine Zidane, Ronaldo and Luis Figo assembled an all-star team wearing Real Madrid’s famous white kit. Yet, that cast did not have the success that its transfer fees and wages. That relative failure, and the ending of the Cristiano Ronaldo era, forced Real President Florentino Perez into a new era. The adoption of youth and development as a means to success has already paid dividends for Real Madrid, and it will continue to do so for at least one decade.</p>



<p>Most recently, transfer rumors emerged that Real Madrid is <a href="https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2024/04/01/660ae0ccca474183388b4594.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">targeting two teenage talents</a>. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/lille-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Lille</a> center-back Leny Yoro and Franco Mastantuono, a midfielder at River Plate, are at the top of Perez’s transfer goals. These two go far against the Galacticos that Perez would have preferred during his first stint as the club’s president. </p>



<p>This follows the club’s signing of players like Eduardo Camavinga, Aurelien Tchouameni, Arda Guler and even Jude Bellingham. When these players joined <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a>, they were either teenagers or in their early 20s. For some, that meant unproven gambles from Real Madrid. While Bellingham had shown what he was capable of at Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, Tchouameni and Camavinga did not have significant experience in major contests. </p>



<p>Now, Real Madrid is reaping the rewards of having those young players. Bringing in more players like that will ensure more success, whether domestically or internationally, over the next generation.</p>



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<h2>Real Madrid youth ensure major trophies without spending</h2>



<p>This season, Real Madrid is nearing a second <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-la-liga-on-us-tv-and-internet/">LaLiga</a> title in the last three seasons. Also, the club is back in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-uefa-champions-league-and-europa-league-on-us-tv-and-internet/">UEFA Champions League</a> quarterfinals for the third straight year. While players like Karim Benzema and Cristiano Ronaldo carried the side to success in the 2010s, Real Madrid quickly realized that this was not a sustainable practice. Spending loads of cash on players that may not pan out directly with Real Madrid led to harsh criticisms. </p>



<p>That is what happened in <a href="https://tenlegend.com/blogs/news/the-galacticos">the early 2000s</a>. Real Madrid won La Liga in the first year of the Galacticos era before triumphing in the UEFA Champions League in the 2000/01 campaign. Yet, a barren spell from the 2002/03 season to 2005/06 yielded just one trophy. Granted, Real Madrid finished second in La Liga twice and was the runner-up in the 2003/04 Copa del Rey. Given the talent in the squad, particularly leading the line, this was a massive disappointment.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240402_WST_498881_Camavinga-Bellingham-Vini-1200x670_cad45d7a.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-498927" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Camavinga-Bellingham-Vini-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Camavinga-Bellingham-Vini-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Camavinga-Bellingham-Vini-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Camavinga-Bellingham-Vini.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>Bringing in younger players serves multiple benefits to Real Madrid. On one hand, it is cheaper. That does not mean Real Madrid is getting players at bargain prices. It spent $110 million on Bellingham and a further $86 million on Tchouameni. But it did save, relatively speaking, on other players. Camavinga was just $33 million. Guler cost $21 million. Brahim Diaz fetched a fee of $18 million as a teenager five years ago. Even Vinicius Jr. and Rodrygo each cost less than $50 million as teenagers. They finished their youth development in the Real Madrid system before starring for Los Blancos. </p>



<h2>Kylian Mbappe combines Galacticos with developed players</h2>



<p>The other benefit comes from development and experience. Each of those players is under the age of 25. That gives Real Madrid multiple opportunities and ways to capitalize on success. In the short term, each of these players has proven that they are among the world’s best in their position. Real Madrid remains one of the most formidable teams in the world. The upcoming tie against Manchester City is a battle between perhaps the two best teams in Europe. That was the biggest game of the young careers of several Real Madrid players. With the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/fan-favorite-bellingham-makes-committment-to-madrid-future-20231018-WST-462987.html">addition of Bellingham</a> to go along with that experience, Real Madrid is perhaps even more formidable. </p>



<p>When you consider how successful Real Madrid’s talents are already, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/real-madrid-is-only-club-that-can-control-kylian-mbappe-stardom/">tacking on someone like Kylian Mbappe</a> sets the club apart. By many accounts, Kylian Mbappe is the best soccer player in the world. Despite the impending log jam of players up front, Carlo Ancelotti will have options to score goals with ease. Vinicius and Rodrygo have developed into truly world-class players, and Jude Bellingham sitting just behind them makes for an elite front three.</p>



<p>Kylian Mbappe would be the jewel in a front-four diamond that seemingly no defense would be able to stop. That is what having players develop allows the club to do. </p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>

Real Madrid's investment in youth works better than Galacticos

Transitioning from Galacticos to the youth is paving the way for an extended period of success at Real Madrid.

<p>Over the last several months, a lot of talk has revolved around Xabi Alonso and his future. Bayern and Liverpool have both shown interest in recruiting the 42-year-old, who is having fantastic success at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/bayer-leverkusen-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Bayer Leverkusen</a> at the moment.</p>



<p>Still, the Spaniard confirmed on Friday that he will <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/liverpool-looks-to-plan-b-as-alonso-announces-leverkusen-stay/">stay as Black and Reds’ head coach</a> for the next season. For the several teams who had high hopes of appointing him as their manager this summer, this news is devastating.</p>



<p>“I am convinced it is the right decision, I am happy,” <a href="https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/68692969" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">he said</a>. “We have had a lot of speculation regarding my future,” he said. “Until now we have had so many games, been pretty busy and focused, and I wanted to reflect during the international break and take a decision.</p>



<p>“The players gave me so many reasons to keep believing in the team – for their commitment, for their desire, for their hunger to have a great season. My job is not over here.”</p>



<h2>What did Alonso say about interest from other clubs?</h2>



<p>Alonso addressed the attention from two of his previous teams. “It wouldn’t be correct of me to talk about other clubs when they are in this situation. For sure there are clubs I have a strong link [as] I played there. So I respect them.</p>



<p>“[I have] the conviction I am in the right place at Bayer Leverkusen and I want to keep growing with the club, growing with the players. We have speculated enough. I want to enjoy wherever I am and I am enjoying it at Leverkusen.”</p>



<p>Now that Alonso will stay with Leverkusen for the next season, he will be in charge of the team’s Champions League run. Supposedly, a release provision in his contract will become effective in the summer of 2025. Interestingly, this might be his possible departure date.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="800" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240330_WST_498384_imago0028483527h-1200x800_f88625da.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=800" alt="" class="wp-image-498426" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago0028483527h-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago0028483527h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago0028483527h-768x512.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago0028483527h-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago0028483527h-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Carlo Ancelotti signed a contract extension until 2026, but he could leave a year early if Real Madrid want to make a play for Xabi Alonso</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Door open for Madrid move in near future?</h2>



<p>After Alonso turned down <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/liverpool-tv-schedule/">Liverpool</a> and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/bayern-munich-tv-schedule/">Bayern</a>, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> executives were reportedly ecstatic. It allegedly gave them an opening to go for him next season. He is much sought-after by Los Blancos, who believe he would be an ideal replacement for Carlo Ancelotti, <a href="https://www.relevo.com/futbol/liga-primera/decision-xabi-alonso-sigue-hoja-20240330033655-nt.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Relevo</a> claim.</p>



<p>The Basque coach is allegedly willing to take over in Madrid. As a result, Los Blancos are considering a move for him, even though Ancelotti signed until 2026.</p>



<p>Because of the Italian’s new contract, we will not be seeing a new manager anytime soon. However, the experienced boss may decide to leave in the next twelve to twenty-four months. It would only <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/reject-liverpool-xabi-alonso-advised-to-wait-for-only-one-club/">allow Alonso to take over</a>.</p>



<p>The report adds that Florentino Perez has great respect for Alonso because of his time spent coaching Real Madrid’s junior teams. Not only was the ex-midfielder an important cog in the club’s wheel as a player, but he may wind up back there in a managerial capacity someday.</p>



<p>Hence, Perez may try to make a move for him in the summer of 2025. That’s when the release clause supposedly becomes operative in his contract with Leverkusen.</p>



<p>Alonso is undeniably one of the most exciting managerial possibilities in soccer right now. Thus, it’s no surprise that Real Madrid are hoping to sign him. At 42 years old, he has plenty of time to see action from the bench as well.</p>



<p>Photo credits: IMAGO / Funke Foto Services : IMAGO / DeFodi</p>

Top club plan future with Xabi Alonso from 2025 after Bayer stay

After Xabi Alonso turned down Liverpool and Bayern Munich, Real Madrid feel the door is open for them in the future

<p>Endrick’s Real Madrid debut may come earlier than anyone expected, with a surprise on the cards. </p>



<p>The Brazilian sensation apparently intends to show his new side what he can do by cutting short his vacation.</p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/copa-america/best-players-to-watch-at-copa-america-2024/">Endrick</a> is only 17, but he has already caused a stir in the soccer community. His outstanding efforts grabbed the attention of Real Madrid’s board. Notably his famous goal against Spain at the Santiago Bernabeu, his future home.</p>



<p>He will not be able to formally join the Madrid giants until he reaches the age of 18 on July 21, per the date set by FIFA. But he won’t have much downtime either. That’s if <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/endrick-earns-first-call-up-to-brazil-for-world-cup-qualifiers-20231106-WST-467646.html">Brazil</a> make it to the 2024 Copa America final—set for July 14—and then to the semi-finals.</p>



<p>Despite that, the youngster, according to <a href="https://www.relevo.com/futbol/endrick-planea-vida-madrid-piensa-20240328162438-nt.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Relevo</a>, is hell-bent on skipping his vacation to participate in Real Madrid’s preseason training in America. Then on July 31 at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/real-madrid-tickets-for-us-tour-schedule-dates-host-cities/">Chicago’s Soldier Field Stadium</a>, he may get his first taste of action against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ac-milan-tv-schedule">AC Milan</a>.</p>



<h2>Madrid’s preseason training optional</h2>



<p>Endrick reportedly wants to make a first impression on boss Carlo Ancelotti. It only shows how keen he is to fit in with the squad and contribute. Real Madrid’s competition is fierce, and it’s only going to get worse with the summer signing of Kylian Mbappe. The teenager, however, is motivated to show Ancelotti what he can do.</p>



<p>But preseason training is optional for players who will compete in the final stages of the Euro and Copa America. “All available Real Madrid players will participate in the Soccer Champions Tour 2024, except those who play in the semifinals of the Euro Cup or the Copa America”, <a href="https://en.as.com/soccer/real-madrid-concerned-about-player-burnout-from-euros-and-copa-america-n/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Madrid said in a statement</a>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="800" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240330_WST_498347_imago1043042387h-1200x800_53b08606.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=800" alt="" class="wp-image-498371" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1043042387h-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1043042387h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1043042387h-768x512.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1043042387h-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/imago1043042387h-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Endrick will have Vinicius Jr to assist him in settling into life with Real Madrid, as well as Rodrygo Goes</figcaption></figure>



<h2>How Real Madrid are helping Endrick fit in</h2>



<p>At Real Madrid’s Valdebebas headquarters, they are getting ready to welcome Endrick with open arms. The striker will be able to house most of his family in the posh La Moraleja neighborhood, near Real Madrid’s sports city. All thanks to the club’s assistance in finding a home for their future star.</p>



<p>His Brazilian friend and soon-to-be teammate Vinicius also already provided him with advice. To keep improving, he told the youngster to listen to what his teammates had to say. That way, when he gets to Santiago Bernabeu, he is ready to take on the world.</p>



<p>“I always listen to the older players, I have developed a lot listening to them all..I hope that Endrick, who is a great player and a great person, will continue to listen to all of us. And we also listen to him, who has experience to talk to us. I hope he can continue to develop to arrive as prepared as possible to help us at Real Madrid.</p>



<p>“May he continue to gain confidence so he can help us in the national team, help his club which is Palmeiras and continue to evolve. He’s 17 years old, he has his whole career ahead of him. I hope everyone can root for him.”</p>



<p>The winger is currently considered one of the top attackers in the world, and he himself joined Real Madrid from Brazil when he was just 18.</p>



<p>As soon as his summer transfer to La Liga is finalized, Endrick will be hoping to catch up to his compatriot. As a surefire sensible course of action, he should listen to someone who has been there before.</p>



<p>Photo credits: IMAGO / Sports Press Photo : IMAGO / Sebastian Frej</p>

Earlier than expected? Endrick's debut date for Madrid revealed

Brazilian sensation Endrick's Madrid debut could come early after it was announced he would cut short his holiday

<p>The summer of 2024 brings loads of clubs to the USA to compete in summer friendlies, something American fans will surely welcome. That includes the likes of Manchester United, Barcelona, Manchester City, Real Madrid, AC Milan, Arsenal and more. Many of these clubs have made frequent trips to the United States in recent seasons. Others are making a long-awaited return to the USA, like Celtic which has not been to the United States in over a decade.</p>



<p>Yet, some of these games stand out among the rest. Historic derbies, star-studded matchups and some big-name teams in interesting venues make for an exciting summer of soccer in the USA. It helps that these summer friendlies in the USA come after the Copa America, which brings some of the best national teams to the United States.</p>



<p>Here are five friendlies that stand out based on the current <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/schedule-of-soccer-friendlies-in-us-this-summer/">schedule of summer friendlies in the USA</a>.</p>



<h2>Best summer friendlies in the USA in 2024</h2>



<h5>Manchester City vs Milan – July 27, time TBD – New York, NY</h5>



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<p>Manchester City remains in contention to win a treble of trophies for the second straight season. That would be an unprecedented feat among European clubs. Therefore, Americans will want to see Manchester City as it is inarguably one of the best teams in the world. This game is the second of its return to the United States after spending the summer of 2023 in South Korea and Japan.</p>



<p>City’s rival in this game, AC Milan, has also shown great success of late. Yet, much of the draw for American supporters remains Christian Pulisic and Yunus Musah. The two USMNT players have been integral to AC Milan’s season in 2023/24. Consequently, there is an added reason for Americans to support their own in this game.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240327_WST_497586_Pulisic-Milan-USA-1200x670_e45eeae7.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-497622" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Pulisic-Milan-USA-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Pulisic-Milan-USA-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Pulisic-Milan-USA-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Pulisic-Milan-USA.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h5>Manchester City vs Barcelona – July 30, time TBD – Orlando, FL</h5>



<ul><li><a href="https://vivid-seats.pxf.io/c/330866/952533/12730?u=https%3a%2f%2fwww.vividseats.com%2fsoccer-champions-tour-tickets-camping-world-stadium-7-30-2024--sports-soccer%2fproduction%2f4881329" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener sponsored nofollow">Tickets</a></li></ul>



<p>Keeping the theme with Manchester City, Pep Guardiola’s side will go south after playing in New York City. Camping World Stadium in Orlando, FL, is hosting a game between City and Spanish side Barcelona. These two have plenty of connections. For example, Pep Guardiola broke through in the coaching ranks at Barcelona. Certain players like Joao Cancelo and Ilkay Gundogan had great success at Manchester City before joining Barcelona. </p>



<p>In terms of club friendlies, this is the only one in Florida throughout the summer. </p>



<h5>Arsenal vs Liverpool – July 31, 7 p.m. – Philadelphia, PA&nbsp;</h5>



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<p>As of the March international break, these two Premier League sides are level on 64 points. Each has had success in Europe, too. Liverpool is in the quarterfinals of the Europa League, and it is the favorite to win that competition. Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal has shown consistent development to earn a place in the Champions League quarterfinals for the first time in a decade. Moreover, their meetings in the Premier League have been exciting. For example, Arsenal held on for a draw at Anfield before defeating Liverpool at the Emirates.</p>



<p>When the two play at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia, the two clubs with a massive following should play another exciting game. Also, this will be a chance for fans to see a Liverpool side under new management. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/who-will-replace-klopp-alonso-emerges-as-favorite-for-liverpool-20240126-WST-485657.html">Jurgen Klopp is leaving</a> the Reds after this season. With Xabi Alonso among the candidates to replace the German, Arsenal will be a major early test.</p>



<h5>Man United vs Liverpool – August 3, 7:30 PM – Columbia, SC</h5>



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<p>After Liverpool plays Arsenal, it will travel south to Columbia, SC, to play Manchester United. This historic rivalry possesses two of the most popular clubs in the United States, and it is the first soccer game at Williams-Brice Stadium. Traditionally, this venue hosts college football games, but it is certainly big enough to house the fans of both clubs.</p>



<p>Games involving these two English sides of late have been a mixed bag. For example, some of them are great. The recent FA Cup quarterfinal tie needed extra time as United won a classic game, 4-3. Yet, just a season ago, Liverpool put seven past Manchester United at Anfield in a Premier League game. Even if it is just a friendly, the disdain between the two clubs will make this a great watch even for neutrals.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240327_WST_497586_Barcelona-Madrid-Dallas-1200x670_a3d080c0.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-497620" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Barcelona-Madrid-Dallas-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Barcelona-Madrid-Dallas-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Barcelona-Madrid-Dallas-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Barcelona-Madrid-Dallas.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h5>Real Madrid vs Barcelona – August 3, time TBD – East Rutherford, NJ</h5>



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<p>Barcelona and Real Madrid are making <em>El Clasico</em> in the United States <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/real-madrid-barcelona-and-milan-invade-usa-this-summer/">a common occurrence</a>. Their game at MetLife Stadium this summer is the fourth edition in the United States. This is the third summer in a row these two teams will play. In the past, that featured stops in Miami, Las Vegas and Arlington, TX. Now, El Clasico goes to the northeast on the outskirts of New York City.</p>



<p>Much like Liverpool, Barcelona will be under new management next year. Xavi said that he would step down from his position as the club’s manager. Therefore, the new manager may get their first taste of this historic derby on American soil. Barcelona has dominated friendly fixtures in the United States involving these two teams. The Catalan club has won each of the previous three. Two of those were one-goal games, though. Fans looking for tickets to this game in 2024 will hope for the same.</p>



<p><em>Photos: Imago</em></p>

Top 5 best soccer friendlies to attend this summer in the USA

The summer of 2024 brings loads of clubs to the USA to compete in summer friendlies, something American fans will surely welcome.

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