Barcelona begin their La Liga title defence on Saturday evening with a tricky trip to Estadi Mallorca Son Moix. The Catalan giants are once again favourites for the crown, while Jagoba Arrasate’s Mallorca dream of a push into Europe after last season’s top-half finish.
Mallorca ended last term 10th with 48 points, only four off European football. The Pirates have strengthened with Pablo Torre (from Barcelona), Lucas Bergstrom, and Mateo Joseph, though key men Jose Copete, Siebe Van der Heyden, and Robert Navarro have departed. Arrasate’s side won three of their six pre-season games and hope to finally end a nightmare record against Barça.
Hansi Flick’s champions arrive fresh after a trophy-laden 2024-25 campaign where they won La Liga, Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. Barça scored over 100 league goals last season and added Marcus Rashford, Joan Garcia, and Roony Bardghji to the squad. Pre-season was flawless too, capped by a 5-0 Joan Gamper Trophy win over Como.
Mallorca vs Barcelona: Key Stats
Head-to-head: Mallorca 2 wins, Barcelona 27 wins, 3 draws
Mallorca have lost 14 of their last 15 La Liga games vs Barcelona
Barcelona have won their last 7 away league matches
Barca are unbeaten in 18 of their last 19 La Liga games
Last season’s meeting here ended Mallorca 1-5 Barcelona
What to Expect From Both Teams
Arrasate’s 4-2-3-1 is built on discipline and Muriqi’s aerial threat. Pablo Torre could debut against his former club, with Darder and Asano offering creativity in support. Mascarell anchors midfield, while Raillo leads the backline.
Barcelona
Flick’s Barca will dominate the ball. Pedri and De Jong dictate midfield, while Yamal and Raphinha bring width and flair. Rashford could debut as the central striker. Defensive stability rests on Araujo and Kounde, while new keeper Joan Garcia may start if registered in time.
Predicted Lineups
Mallorca (4-2-3-1) 🔴⚪; Roman; Morey, Raillo, Valjent, Mojica; Morlanes, Mascarell; Asano, Darder, Torre; Muriqi
Barcelona (4-3-3) 🔵🔴; Garcia; Kounde, Araujo, Cubarsi, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Yamal, Fermin, Raphinha; Rashford
Players and Matchups to Watch
Pablo Torre vs old club: Can he prove a point on debut?
Yamal’s spark: Already a world star at 18, will he light up the opener?
Rashford’s La Liga bow: How quickly can he adapt to Flick’s system?
Odds Market on MSport
💵 Barcelona to win: 1.46
💵 Over 2.5 goals: 1.63
💵 Yamal Anytime Goalscorer: 3.60
Mallorca are solid at home and Arrasate has organised them well, but history and firepower lean Barca’s way. Expect Flick’s side to control possession, create chances, and start their title defence with three points.
_large.png)
