Ben Jarman Futbol

Never in a million years would Béticos expect that their team would be the cause of admiration right across the footballing world, but under the guidance of Quique Setien the Andalucians draw admiration from all corners of the globe.  Rewriting the script has become something of the norm for Real Betis, and as they entered the year with another new coach - their 9th since December 2013 - the fans once again feared the worst for Los Verdiblancos. Since their return to the top flight after a short stint away, Seville's working class club have never finished in the top half and were seemingly slipping into the old habit of starting a fresh at the drop of a hat.  However, this season has started with a bang for all concerned as newly installed manager Quique Setien continues to build on an impressive season with UD Las Palmas last year by propelling Betis into the top half. Setien is arguably one of the emerging managers of La Liga, and is known for his expansive possession ba...

Under a shimmering sunset 99 kilometers away from Barcelona, tiny Girona stood up against Madrid to seemingly end their title hopes, whilst simultaneously sending a message to the big-wigs on the capital on behalf of Catalunya.  Girona are perhaps the smallest club in La Liga and in comparison to their Catalan cousins, FC Barclona and Espanyol, barely scratch the surface in terms in of support. But they have heart. And, more importantly, they have the backing of one of the biggest super groups in world football.  Their sensational win over Real Madrid at home had meant to much more to a team commencing their first season in La Liga than three points. This victory was symbolic. It was a giant two fingers the Champions of Europe, but also to the Spanish cabinet back in Madrid. Their cousins in Barcelona will surely be sending thanks, as their eternal rivals from the Capital now sit eight points adrift at the top of the league, a margin that has never been overturned by a Mad...

Valencians certainly get their fair share of beautiful weather, but supporting Valencia in recent times has been nothing short of a torrential downpour.  Since the arrival of Peter Lim the sense of optimism around the club has risen and fallen like the morning sun, but finally it seems as though a new dawn is rising over one of the most famous stadiums in Spain. After years of continued success, Los Che had lost it soul, some of it's greatest assets and became somewhat of a laughing stock, especially with the ill-fated appointment of the Neville brothers.  But finally, there is something to smile about as Marcelino hauls Valencia from the doldrums towards the summit of La Liga with scintillating football that is sure to set pulses racing. The addition of Goncalo Guedes over the summer seems to be an inspired one, as the Portuguese is at the heart of almost all of the lightning quick counter attacks that are causing the opposition so many issues. His belting start t...