LaLiga 2026-27 Season Kicks Off Without Spain’s Big Three
The 2026-27 LaLiga season begins this Saturday, but defending champions Barcelona, along with Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid, will not be in action until next week. Their delayed starts stem from their participation in the recent FIFA World Cup, which granted these teams an extended break to allow players adequate rest.
Seven Spanish clubs reached the semifinals or beyond in the World Cup, including Barcelona and Real Madrid, who were scheduled to face one another this weekend but will instead play on Matchday 2. While Celta Vigo did not request a postponement for their matchup against Osasuna, the other clubs, including Atlético Madrid and Real Betis, sought to take advantage of the extended break mandated by an agreement between the Spanish Players’ Union (AFE) and LaLiga.
Atlético Madrid will have a brief wait before hitting the pitch, as they host Málaga at the Metropolitano on Wednesday. In contrast, Barcelona is set to visit Elche on August 23, while Real Madrid travels to Espanyol the following day. The two clubs will complete their delayed Matchday 1 responsibilities in midweek, with Real Madrid playing Real Sociedad on August 26, and Barcelona hosting Athletic Club on August 27. The additional time has also allowed both clubs to schedule final preseason friendlies before their season starts.
Competition for a Top-Four Finish
While the focus has been on the top three clubs, competition for the top four remains fierce. Villarreal, who finished third last season, have a new coach, Iñigo Pérez, following Marcelino’s departure. They are poised to play more dynamic football this season. Real Betis, bolstered by new left back Fran García, aims to compete alongside the exciting young talents at Celta Vigo, including Aleix Febas, who was one of last season’s standout midfielders.
Challenges for Valencia and Sevilla
Valencia, once a LaLiga powerhouse, now struggles in the middle of the table, often finding themselves in a relegation battle. With fans frustrated over the lack of investment under owner Peter Lim, and after a disheartening preseason defeat against Newcastle United, the club faces pressure to perform.
Sevilla, who signed Scottish forward Robbie Ure from IK Sirius for €6 million, find themselves on shaky ground as well. Projections suggest they are among the favorites to face relegation, having previously finished in the lower half of the table in recent years. Coach Luis García has a demanding task ahead to alter their fortunes.
Uncertain Times for Rayo Vallecano
Rayo Vallecano enters the season under challenging circumstances as well. The deterioration of their Vallecas stadium has rendered it unfit for matches, leading to an agreement with Leganés to host Rayo’s first home game against Alavés at their Butarque stadium. The club recently hired Beñat San José as coach following the departure of Iñigo Pérez, but a lack of significant squad additions and key departures could hinder their prospects.
Matarazzo and Real Sociedad Looking Ahead
Pellegrino Matarazzo begins his first full season at Real Sociedad after a triumphant start, which included a Copa del Rey victory last April. However, the team faltered toward the end of the previous season, failing to secure a win in their last eight league matches. While players like Mikel Oyarzabal lead the attack, Matarazzo must reinvigorate the roster, which has seen little movement in the transfer market.
Returning Clubs and Notable Signings
Málaga returns to the top flight after a tumultuous period, emerging from financial mismanagement to secure promotion from the second division. Their youthful squad, under coach Juan Funes, emphasizes sustainability over blockbuster names.
Additionally, Deportivo La Coruña rejoins LaLiga after a lengthy absence, significantly augmented by the signing of former Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang. The team looks to establish a strong position in the league despite projections suggesting potential relegation.
Special Credits: Image Courtesy of Espn
