New Delhi, Aug. 15 -- La Liga is back this weekend, yet two of its biggest clubs and several other top sides will sit out the opening matches. The Spanish top flight resumes on 15 August, but reigning champions Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid and Real Betis will not appear until later in the month. Fans eager to see the usual heavyweights will have to wait a little longer.

The first round begins with Alaves hosting Getafe on 15 August, followed by Rayo Vallecano's trip to Sevilla. On 16 August, Villarreal travels to Racing Santander, giving at least one strong contender a place on the opening weekend. Beyond that, the rest of the traditional title challengers remain on the sidelines.

This staggered start is no accident. La Liga ...