Barcelona’s 2025‑26 season begins with an away match against RCD Mallorca on August 16‑17, 2025, followed by early road games at Levante and Rayo Vallecano, and the first home fixture will be the Copa del Rey round‑of‑16 clash with Racing de Santander on January 15, 2025. The schedule sets the stage for key league battles and a decisive cup test.
Early LaLiga Road Trip and First Home Fixture
Barcelona opens LaLiga EA Sports on the weekend of 16‑17 August 2025 with an away game at Mallorca. The next two league matches are also on the road: Levante on 20 August and Rayo Vallecano a few days later. This three‑match away stretch allows the club to start the campaign without using the Camp Nou.
Key League Encounters
Throughout the 38‑game season Barcelona will host traditional rivals Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid in October and November, matches that attract massive viewership. Additional high‑stakes fixtures include games against Valencia CF and Sevilla FC, which could influence the race for European qualification.
Copa del Rey: First Home Match Against Racing de Santander
The first official match at the Camp Nou this season is the Copa del Rey round‑of‑16 on Thursday, 15 January 2025 at 21:00 CET, where Barcelona hosts Racing de Santander. The tie marks Barcelona’s inaugural home appearance of the campaign and a test against a newly promoted side known for solid defending.
Tactical Preview
Coach Xavi Hernández will need to rotate his squad after three consecutive away games. Expect the strongest line‑up against Mallorca and Levante, while younger players may feature at Rayo Vallecano to preserve starter fitness. The Racing match will be a litmus test for the new summer signing up front and for a defense that must stay alert to the Cantabrian side’s quick wing play.
Impact on LaLiga Standings and European Ambitions
Positive results in the opening road fixtures could place Barcelona in the top positions early, easing pressure before the high‑profile Madrid derbies. Conversely, a slow start would complicate the club’s pursuit of a Champions League spot. In the Copa del Rey, advancing past Racing opens the path to potential quarter‑final clashes with Athletic Club or Sevilla, offering an alternative route to silverware if the league title proves elusive.
Season Outlook
Barcelona’s 2025‑26 calendar presents a blend of early challenges, marquee derbies, and a pivotal cup tie that will shape the team’s momentum. With a reinforced squad and clear tactical direction, the club aims to reclaim the LaLiga crown and add the Copa del Rey to its trophy cabinet.
