La Liga table 2021-22: Where do Barcelona stand and when can Real Madrid win the title?

Xavi Hernandez has suddenly brought hope back to Barcelona when it looked like the season was over for them. However, the Cules' poor start to the season may prove costly as they are far behind Real Madrid in the La Liga standings with only a few games left.

After a frustrating Europa League elimination at the hands of Eintracht Frankfurt, the Catalans suffered another defeat at the Camp Nou when Rayo Vallecano beat them 1-0 on pending Matchday 21of the Spanish top-flight. To make things worse, Carlo Ancelotti's boys won on Wednesday.

The match against Rayo Vallecano was a must-win for the Cules if they wanted to continue with title aspirations, but Barcelona was unable to get the victory. The Merengues are in control of the table. Check out how things stand in La Liga.

La Liga standings: How far behind Real Madrid are Barcelona?

With their latest defeat to Rayo Vallecano, Barcelona are 15 points behind Real Madrid. It is still a very favorable difference for the Merengues, as they are 15 points above Sevilla as well. Atletico Madrid are 17 points shy but they are out of the title race as they can pick up, at best, 15 more points.

What do Real Madrid need to become champions? When can they secure the La Liga title?

The outlook is very encouraging for Carlo Ancelotti's men, as they depend on themselves to get their hands on the trophy. Real Madrid only need to claim 1 point to secure the 2021-22 La Liga title. If they reach the 79-point mark they will automatically secure the La Liga championship.

Sevilla can claim, at best, 15 points. That leaves them practically out of the battle, as Real Madrid would only need a draw to destroy their aspirations - or even less if they drop points. The same applies with Barcelona.

Real Madrid schedule: How many games they have left in 2021-22 La Liga?

After Barcelona's defeat, if Real Madrid wins or draws against Espanyol, they will become La Liga champions. These are their next La Liga games this season:

April 30 - Espanyol (home)
May 8 - Atletico Madrid (a)
May 11 - Levante (h)
May 15 - Cadiz (a)
May 22 - Betis (h)

Barcelona schedule: Barca's next games in 2021-22 La Liga

Barcelona's chances of winning the championship are minimal. However, they still have six games left to try and have a strong finish to the campaign, and if it's with a trophy even better.