The Barclays Premier League and Spanish Primera Liga cannot be more different in terms of style and pace. However, are the champions inter-linked somehow?

For a start, look at the respective league winners since 2001:

2001

BPL champion: Man United

Primera Liga champion: Real Madrid

2002

BPL champion: Arsenal

Primera Liga champion: Valencia

2003

BPL champion: Man United

Primera Liga champion: Real Madrid

2004

BPL champion: Arsenal

Primera Liga champion: Valencia

2005

BPL champion: Chelsea

Primera Liga champion: Barcelona

2006

BPL champion: Chelsea

Primera Liga champion: Barcelona

2007

BPL champion: Man United

Primera Liga champion: Real Madrid

2008

BPL champion: Man United?

Primera Liga champion: Real Madrid

Seems like United are destined to win the league title this season.