A New Chapter Begins: La Liga 2025/26 Campaign Kicks Off with High Hopes
by Geoffrey Ejiga | by Joseph King
Barcelona Begins Title Defense Away to Mallorca
Barcelona, the defending champs, are looking to build on their incredible success from last season. Led by manager Hansi Flick, they've got a tough away match against Mallorca to start things off. See our experts' Mallorca vs Barcelona prediction for insights into the game.
Barca has been in a rather tough transfer market, but have managed to secure key players like Marcus Rashford on a loan deal to strengthen their attack and a promising goalkeeper in Joan García. Roony Bardghji also brings an extra pair of legs to the wings ahead of another grueling campaign for the Blaugrana.
The real test comes later, though, when they travel to the Bernabéu in late October to face their biggest rivals. However, they will feel confident after beating Madrid four times in a row, winning three trophies on their heads in the process.
Can Barcelona two peat the La Liga trophy as they hunt for their first Champions League title in over a decade?
Real Madrid Could Reclaim Title Under New Coach Alonso
Real Madrid, on the other hand, are out for blood. Finishing last season without a trophy was a massive blow for a club that expected to win everything. This year, they're not messaging around. They brought in Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool, a huge move that added a world-class playmaker to their attack, despite being a defender.
They also picked up two talented young defenders in Dean Huijsen and Álvaro Carreras. Real Madrid starts their campaign at home against Osasuna, a game they'll be desperate to win to show everyone they're back in business.
Can Atlético Madrid Snatch Another Title Under Everyone's Noses?
Atlético Madrid will also be lurking in the shadows. They finished third last season, a respectable result, but you know Diego Simeone wants more. They've also been busy in the transfer market, adding some serious talent with Thiago Almada and Álex Baena to their midfield and attack. Their first match against Espanyol is a chance to show they're ready to challenge for the title.
But it's going to be a tough one, according to our experts' Espanyol vs Atlético Madrid prediction .
And don't forget about the rest of the league. The fight for those European spots is going to be intense. Teams like Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal, who both made it into the Champions League, will be fighting to stay at the top. The newly promoted teams, Levante, Elche, and Real Oviedo, have their work cut out for them just to survive.
From the first whistle to the last, this La Liga season is going to be a rollercoaster. The drama, the goals, the rivalries. It's all coming back. So grab your popcorn and get ready. The show is about to begin.
