The Spanish title race once again seems to be a straight shootout between Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Sevilla had seemed capable of making it a three horse race for much of the season, but in recent weeks they’ve fallen away.
Real are top of the pile with 65 points from 27 games, while Barcelona, who have played a game more than Los Blancos, only have 63 points on the board.
As the final stretch of the season comes into view, it’s clear that the second El Clasico of the season, which will be played at the Santiago Bernabeu on April 23, will be a key decider in who will win the league.
Referee has been announced
On Saturday night it’s been widely reported that Gil Manzano has been picked to ref El Clasico.
If that name sounds familiar, that could be because referee Manzano was spotted with Real Madrid bags and merchandise following a 3-2 win away at Villarreal.
After that game, Villarreal president Fernando Roig told the media:
Gil Manzano and his assistants left the stadium with Real Madrid bags. That’s not right, it seems to me.
Some social media reaction to the Gil Manzano appointment is below.
Gil Manzano será el arbitro del clásico según @marca que Dios nos coja confesados.. pic.twitter.com/UYKubBULnX
— Tere barça cule 💙❤️ (@rubia50tdq) March 25, 2017
Gil Manzano will be the referee for the Clasico next month says Marca. You simply couldn't make that up!!
— The Da Vinci Code (@MalabaFCB) March 25, 2017
https://twitter.com/pulguistafcb/status/845721522056712193