The 2025-26 La Liga season kicks off as Mallorca host Barcelona at Estadi Son Moix on Saturday, August 16. Barcelona aim to start their title defense strongly, while Mallorca hope to build on last season’s 10th-place finish.
Recent Form & Season Background
Barcelona dominated the 2024-25 campaign, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. They scored over 100 goals and enter the new season as clear favourites. Mallorca, meanwhile, finished mid-table with 48 points and are aiming for a push toward European qualification.
Head-to-Head Record
History favors Barcelona, who have won 14 of the last 15 league meetings against Mallorca. The last Mallorca victory came in 2009. Barcelona secured a 5-1 win in their previous encounter last season.
Team News
Mallorca: Samu Costa is sidelined through injury. Vedat Muriqi will lead the attack, with Pablo Torre potentially making his debut. Sergi Darder, Takuma Asano, Manu Morlanes, and Omar Mascarell are expected to feature in key roles.
Barcelona: Marc-Andre ter Stegen is out long-term, with Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski doubtful. Joan Garcia may start in goal, while Fermin Lopez and Ferran Torres are likely in attack.
Probable Lineups
Mallorca: Roman; Morey, Raillo, Valjent, Mojica; Morlanes, Mascarell; Asano, Darder, Torre; Muriqi
Barcelona: Garcia; Kounde, Araujo, Cubarsi, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Yamal, Fermin, Raphinha; Torres
Key Players to Watch
- Lamine Yamal (Barcelona): One of the best young talents globally, expected to spearhead Barcelona’s attack.
- Vedat Muriqi (Mallorca): The home side’s key striker, hoping to make an impact against Barcelona.
Prediction
Given Barcelona’s firepower, recent dominance, and form, they are favourites to win. Mallorca will aim to frustrate the visitors, but a comfortable Barcelona victory with multiple goals is the most likely outcome.