The La Liga 2025–26 fixture list is out, and the spotlight once again shines on El Clasico, the iconic clash between Real Madrid and Barcelona. As the Spanish giants prepare to renew their rivalry, the new season promises high-stakes drama, new managerial challenges, and a title race that could go down to the wire.
Barcelona enter the season as defending champions after a dominant 2024–25 campaign where they finished four points clear of Real Madrid. Under Hansi Flick, the Blaugrana beat Los Blancos in all four meetings last season, including two finals and both El Clasico league clashes. Real Madrid, now managed by Xabi Alonso, will be eager to turn the tide.
2025-26 La Liga Opening Fixtures (Matchday 1 – August 17)
| Team | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Barcelona | Mallorca | Away |
| Real Madrid | Osasuna | Home (Bernabeu) |
| Atletico Madrid | Espanyol | Away |
| Levante | Alaves | Home |
| Elche | Real Betis | Home |
| Real Oviedo | Villarreal | Home |
Barcelona begin with three away matches due to Camp Nou redevelopment, returning home in Matchday 4 against Valencia. Real Madrid kick off Alonso’s era at home against Osasuna before visiting Real Oviedo. Atletico Madrid face Espanyol in their opener.
El Clasico 2025-26: Dates and Details Confirmed
The 2025-26 El Clasico fixtures are officially confirmed. The first El Clasico will be played on October 26 at the Santiago Bernabeu, marking a huge test for Alonso early in the campaign. Interestingly, this fixture falls on the exact same date as last season’s Bernabeu clash, which Barcelona won 4-0 in a statement victory.
The return El Clasico is scheduled for May 10 at the fully redeveloped Spotify Camp Nou. That match could potentially decide the title, just as it has in so many seasons before. Fans worldwide are already marking their calendars for the two most electric nights in club football.
Barcelona dominated all four meetings with Real Madrid in 2024-25, including both El Clasico league matches and the two finals, and they’ll be hoping to extend that streak. On the other hand, Alonso and Los Blancos will be desperate to reverse their fortunes and deliver a blow to their arch-rivals.
Barcelona Start With Triple Away Games
Barcelona’s title defense begins away at Mallorca on August 17, kicking off the season in what will be the first of three straight away games. This special arrangement was approved by La Liga due to ongoing redevelopment work at Camp Nou. The Catalan giants will return home on Matchday 4 to host Valencia in September.
Hansi Flick’s side were dominant in 2024-25 and are hoping to replicate that form this season. Their squad depth, young core, and tactical clarity were evident in their complete sweep over Real Madrid, including El Clasico victories that defined their title run.
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Real Madrid to Begin New Season Under Alonso
Real Madrid will start the Xabi Alonso era by hosting Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabeu. The former midfield maestro begins his first domestic campaign with Real as head coach after replacing Carlo Ancelotti. Alonso’s Madrid will then face newly promoted Real Oviedo on Matchday 2 in an early test of squad cohesion.
Xabi Alonso, who played in several El Clasico clashes during his playing career, will now manage his first as a coach in October. With a refreshed squad and tactical reshuffle, Alonso hopes to end Barcelona’s domestic dominance and guide Real back to the top.
La Liga 2025-26: Key Fixtures in a Glance
| Fixture Type | Date | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| El Clasico (1st) | Oct 26, 2025 | Santiago Bernabeu |
| El Clasico (2nd) | May 10, 2026 | Spotify Camp Nou |
| Madrid Derby (1st) | Sep 28, 2025 | Metropolitano Stadium |
| Madrid Derby (2nd) | Mar 22, 2026 | Santiago Bernabeu |
Spotlight on El Clasico: More Than Just a Game
El Clasico is more than a football match; it is a spectacle that represents the political, cultural, and sporting rivalry between Spain’s two biggest clubs. In the 2025-26 season, the rivalry gains new intensity with Xabi Alonso entering the fray as Real Madrid’s new tactician, while Barcelona continue under the strong leadership of Hansi Flick.
The previous season’s El Clasico matches saw complete dominance from Barcelona. Flick outmaneuvered Ancelotti tactically, and his players showed more hunger across all competitions. With new signings and tactical adjustments expected from both camps, the 2025-26 El Clasico clashes are shaping up to be iconic.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When is the first El Clasico of the 2025-26 La Liga season?
The first El Clasico will be played on October 26, 2025, at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Q2: Where will the second El Clasico take place?
The second El Clasico will be held at Spotify Camp Nou on May 10, 2026.
Q3: Who are the defending La Liga champions?
Barcelona are the defending champions, having won the 2024-25 La Liga title.
Q4: When does the 2025-26 La Liga season begin?
The season kicks off on August 17, 2025.