LaLiga 2017-18: Messi in transition, Bale battling for his place – five stars to watch

Real Madrid s performance in the Supercopa de Espana confirms them as favourites to defend their LaLiga title this season.

Zinedine Zidane s men claimed a 5-1 aggregate victory over Barcelona, whose attempts to overcome the loss of Neymar to Paris Saint-Germain for €222million look set to define their season.

Elsewhere, Atletico Madrid begin life at their new Wanda Metropolitano home, while two players arrive in the Spanish top flight looking to revive their careers.

Here we take a look at five men to watch out for during the coming season.

 

LIONEL MESSI

Barcelona face a transitional season following the break-up of the attacking trident formerly known as MSN.

Much of the responsibility for ensuring Barca do not feel the abs…