An unexpected underdog has taken center stage in Spain’s top-flight football, drawing comparisons to Leicester City’s historic triumph in the Premier League. After 12 matches of the new LALIGA season, the usual giants of Barcelona, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid find themselves looking up at a new leader – Girona.
In a remarkable turn of events, the team, for the first time in its 93-year history, sits proudly atop the LALIGA table, having recently extended their lead to two points over second-placed Real Madrid.
Under the guidance of manager Michel, Girona’s ascent has been anything but conventional. Formerly struggling in the second division just two seasons ago, they have now become the most entertaining and, according to Spanish football expert Phil Kitromilides, the best team in LALIGA. Outscoring every other side in the league, Girona’s attractive style of play has captured the attention of football enthusiasts.
Kitromilides expressed the significance of Girona’s success, acknowledging the unlikely narrative unfolding in LALIGA. While recognizing that it might not be a sustained phenomenon, he urged fans to embrace the dream, drawing parallels with Leicester City’s improbable title-winning season in 2015/16.
Mark Schwarzer, former Leicester City goalkeeper, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the uncanny similarities between Girona’s unexpected rise and Leicester’s fairytale. He noted the familiar skepticism – “it’ll never last” – that surrounded Leicester City before their historic triumph and suggested that Girona shouldn’t be written off prematurely.
Girona’s only loss this season came at the hands of Real Madrid, and they are yet to face Barcelona or Atletico Madrid. Despite the challenges ahead, their strong start has fueled speculation about the potential for another football fairytale.
Kitromilides highlighted the significant gap Girona has opened up between themselves and the sixth-placed team, positioning them well for European football. While winning the league might seem improbable, he stressed that Girona has given their fans something extraordinary to dream about, making football all the more captivating.
If Girona were to secure the LALIGA title, Kitromilides believes it would surpass Leicester City’s achievement. While acknowledging that it’s still early in the season, the story unfolding in Spain’s top-flight has already become extraordinary, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of football.
