Why are Tiredness and Injuries Major Factors in La Liga's Title Race?

Madrid (Spain), May 1 (NationPress) In the 34th round of La Liga, both FC Barcelona and Real Madrid find themselves grappling with injuries and fatigue as they vie for this season's championship, while the competition for European spots and the battle against relegation heats up in other areas.

Barcelona recently showcased one of the most thrilling UEFA Champions League matches in recent memory, ending in a 3-3 draw with Inter Milan. However, the intense game resulted in Jules Kounde sustaining a muscle injury, adding to the mounting pressure as Barcelona seeks to maintain its four-point lead over Real Madrid at the summit of La Liga.

Hansi Flick's squad is set to face the bottom-placed Real Valladolid, who have already been relegated with only four wins throughout the season and possess the worst defensive statistics in La Liga. Flick should be able to rotate his squad without facing significant challenges.

This week has been particularly tough for Real Madrid, having recently lost the Copa del Rey final to Barcelona. Carlo Ancelotti appears to be on the cusp of departing for the Brazilian national team, and the aftermath of some players' disgraceful conduct following last weekend's defeat has added to the turmoil, according to reports from Xinhua.

With both Antonio Rudiger injured and suspended, Ferland Mendy also sidelined along with Eduardo Camavinga and David Alaba, Ancelotti will face challenges in fielding a strong defense at home against a resurgent Celta Vigo. This match is crucial for Madrid as they prepare for next weekend's vital encounter against Barcelona.

The weekend commences with a mid-table showdown between Rayo Vallecano and Getafe, followed by a critical matchup for 17th-placed Alaves as they host third-placed Atletico Madrid.

This match holds special significance for Alaves defender Carlos Martin, who is currently on loan from Atletico.

In the race for a top-four finish, Villarreal will take on an Osasuna side that arrives on the east coast boasting three consecutive victories, elevating them to eighth place.

Real Betis will visit an Espanyol team that has proven hard to beat at home and has distanced itself from the relegation zone. Betis is also preparing for the first leg of their Conference League semifinal against Fiorentina on Thursday.

Fourth-placed Athletic Bilbao is gearing up for a Europa League semifinal against Manchester United ahead of this Sunday's Basque derby against Real Sociedad. This match follows the announcement that Imanol Alguacil will step down as Real Sociedad coach at the season's end.

In other news, Las Palmas must secure a victory at home against Valencia to escape the relegation zone, while drama unfolds as Sevilla hosts Leganes.

Sevilla has dropped precariously close to the relegation zone and now has Joaquin Caparros at the helm for the fourth time. Three points against a second-from-bottom side would alleviate some pressure, while Leganes is fighting to keep their survival hopes alive.

Wrapping up the round, Girona will aim to end a dismal streak at home against Real Mallorca, who are striving for a top-eight finish.