Barcelona begin the defence of their La Liga crown with a tricky away trip to Mallorca at the Estadi Mallorca Son Moix on Saturday evening. The reigning champions have retained the core of last season’s winning squad while adding quality summer signings, looking to start the campaign in style.
Mallorca enjoyed an impressive 2024/25 season, securing a top-half finish in tenth place. They will be eager to make life difficult for Xavi’s side, and with home support behind them, they could pose more of a threat than many expect.
Mallorca have only won once in their last seven La Liga matches dating back to last season. Barcelona, meanwhile, come into this clash in red-hot form, winning each of their last five matches in all competitions. The last time Mallorca beat Barcelona was back in 2009, and history suggests that record is unlikely to change this weekend.
Prediction: Barcelona should collect all three points, though the hosts are capable of getting on the scoresheet. A 3-1 away win looks a solid pick, with goals expected on both sides.
Pre-game odds have Barcelona as clear favourites at 1/2 (1.50) with a 66.7% implied probability. Mallorca’s win chances sit at just over 17% (19/4 – 5.75), while a draw is priced at 17/5 (4.40) with a 22.7% likelihood.
The head-to-head record heavily favours the visitors, with Barcelona unbeaten against Mallorca since 2009 and winning the last three meetings. Their most recent encounter ended 1-0 to Barca in April.
Mallorca could hand a start to Pablo Torre against his former club, while Samu Costa is the only notable absentee due to injury. Their predicted lineup: Roman (GK); Morey, Raillo, Valjent, Mojica; Morlanes, Mascarell; Asano, Darder, Torre & Muriqi.
Barcelona have yet to officially register some of their new signings, including Joan Garcia and Marcus Rashford, though this is expected to be resolved before kick-off. They remain without Marc-Andre ter Stegen through long-term injury, while Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski are also doubtful. Predicted lineup: Garcia (GK); Kounde, Araujo, Cubarsi, Balde; Pedri, De Jong; Yamal, Fermin, Raphinha & Torres.