Last-place Zaragoza could hardly have picked a worse predicament as they chase their first victory of the Spanish league season today against defending champions Barcelona.

Zaragoza and Deportivo La Coruna remain the only teams without a victory through seven games, and Zaragoza coach Jose Aurelio Gay’s job could also be under threat if the club doesn’t end its poor run soon.

With former Atletico Madrid and Mexico coach Javier Aguirre among the names mentioned in speculation about a replacement, Gay is leaving nothing to chance and made a point on Wednesday by sending defender Matteo Contini home early from practice because of a poor attitude.

“We’re convinced we can get out of this and doing that begins today,” veteran midfielder Edmilson said ahead of the clash against his former club.

Lionel Messi scored both goals in a 2-0 Champions League win over FC Copenhagen on Wednesday ahead of Barcelona’s return to La Romareda. That’s where Messi notched a memorable hat-trick last year, including one from a run which started in midfield and ended with Contini on the floor after being turned around twice.

But Barcelona havn’t exactly overawed their opponents this season, with Messi confessing fatigue is a problem.

While David Villa has had no problems creating chances, he hasn’t converted them.

“That’ll never be worry,” coach Pep Guardiola said, trying to allay any fears over the Spain striker’s ability to convert.

Guardiola may not have goalkeeper Victor Valdes available due to sickness again, while Xavi Hernandez is available but has been bothered by an Achilles problem. Defender Gabriel Milito is unavailable.

While Zaragoza and Deportivo struggle, promoted clubs Real Sociedad, Levante and Hercules have held their weight so far.

Hercules have been the most impressive as it has beaten Barcelona and Sevilla, and held Villarreal to a draw. They have a good chance of scoring points at Almeria tomorrow, but will be without leading scorer David Trezeguet to suspension.

Sociedad face Deportivo on Monday, and Levante are up against sixth-place Espanyol tomorrow.

Leaders Real Madrid welcome Racing Santander to the Santiago Bernabeu stadium today after a convincing 2-0 European Champions League win over Milan.

Jose Mourinho’s side is coming together, with Cristiano Ronaldo either scoring or assisting on Madrid’s last six goals. Madrid have outscored opponents 16-3 so far to be the only undefeated team in the competition.

Madrid have 17 points, one clear of Villarreal, Barcelona and Valencia. Atletico Madrid have 13 points and Espanyol 12.

Villarreal are hoping to return to their winning ways when they travel to Atletico after Hercules ended their five-game winning streak. Atletico striker Sergio Aguero returns after a month-long layoff.

In tomorrow’s other games, Getafe play Sporting Gijon, Malaga are at Osasuna and Sevilla face Athletic Bilbao.

Valencia play Mallorca in today’s late game.

Today

Real Zaragoza-Barcelona

Real Madrid-Racing Santander

Valencia-Mallorca

Tomorrow

Almeria-Hercules

Espanyol-Levante

Getafe-Sporting Gijon

Osasuna-Malaga

Real Sociedad-Dep. La Coruna

Sevilla-Athletic Bilbao

Villarreal-Atletico Madrid