The La Liga season has been marred by injuries and suspensions, with nearly eight key players sidelined for the remainder of the campaign. This has had a significant impact on team selection and strategy.
One of the most notable examples is the injury to Real Madrid's Karim Benzema, who missed the first half of the season due to a knee injury. His absence was felt throughout the squad as he provided a vital attacking presence in attack. However, his return has not been without its challenges, with new signings such as Eden Hazard and Vinicius Junior stepping up to fill the void left by Benzema's absence.
Another player who has struggled with injuries is Barcelona's Lionel Messi, who has been out since late January with a calf problem. His absence has been felt across the squad, with new signing Robert Lewandowski stepping into the forward line alongside Luis Suarez and Ousmane Dembele. The trio have struggled to find their form since Messi's departure, and the pressure is now on to produce something special in the latter part of the season.
Other key players affected include Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne, who suffered a cruciate ligament injury earlier this year, and Chelsea's Olivier Giroud, who has also struggled with injuries. Both players' absence has had a significant impact on their teams, with City currently sitting second in the Premier League table and Chelsea struggling to maintain a top-four position.
Overall, the injuries and suspensions have had a major impact on La Liga, with many teams finding it difficult to compete at the highest level. However, there are still some standout performances from the likes of Atletico Madrid and Sevilla, who have managed to stay in the title race despite the lack of key players.
In conclusion, the injuries and suspensions that have plagued La Liga this season have had a significant impact on team selection and strategy. While some teams have managed to adapt and remain competitive, others will be looking to rebuild following the loss of key players. Ultimately, the success of each team will depend on how well they can cope with the challenges posed by injuries and suspensions.