Former Barcelona midfielder Xavi has claimed that La Liga is "more competitive" this season after a fairly slow start to the season for both Barca and Real Madrid.

Atletico Madrid lead the way in Spain after seven matches of the new season, but Diego Simeone's side, like Real Madrid, have dropped points in three of their seven fixtures this term.

Barcelona, meanwhile, have also only won four of their seven games and suffered a 4-3 defeat away to Celta Vigo at the weekend, which was their second loss of the campaign.

Xavi still places his former club as the favourites to defend their crown this term, but claims that the gap between the top teams in Spain and the rest of the division is narrowing.

"Despite a draw, win and defeat in their last three La Liga games, Barcelona remain the favourites in all competitions, in my opinion," Xavi told reporters.

"But it is good to see the league becoming more competitive - nobody thought Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico would drop so many points. But all this shows how hard the smaller teams have been working and that the gap is closing."

Europa League holders Sevilla currently make up the top four alongside Atletico, Real Madrid and Barcelona entering the international break.