El Clasico Showdown Dates Announced as Barcelona and Real Madrid Battle for La Liga Glory
El Clásico stands as one of the most significant rivalries not just in global football, but across all sporting competitions. Real Madrid versus Barcelona, Los Blancos facing off against Los Blaugranas, represents a clash between two of the most prestigious and accomplished clubs in football history.
During the previous campaign, following a period of Real Madrid supremacy, Barcelona emerged victorious in all four Clásico encounters throughout 2024–25. The Catalan giants triumphed over Los Blancos in both the Spanish Super Cup and Copa del Rey championship matches, securing additional wins during their La Liga meetings as they achieved their first-ever domestic treble.
Hansi Flick established his authority over Real Madrid during his inaugural campaign as Barcelona's head coach. While his era was beginning, another chapter concluded on the sidelines for Los Blancos.
Carlo Ancelotti concluded his remarkably successful period as Real Madrid's manager following a disappointing campaign where the team failed to meet the high standards set by their 2023–24 achievements and the acquisition of Kylian Mbappé. His successor? Former Real Madrid star turned renowned coach Xabi Alonso.
The foundation has been laid for Real Madrid and Barcelona to resume their roles as the primary contenders in the La Liga championship battle for 2025–26. Under Xabi Alonso's leadership and with significant signings like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Franco Mastantuono, Los Blancos are hoping for improved results against their arch-nemeses in the upcoming season.
Meanwhile, Flick's Barcelona will be looking to maintain their dominance over Real Madrid in a campaign where, contrary to recent seasons, they enter as strong favorites across all tournaments they'll compete in.
Both Real Madrid and Barcelona recently discovered their 2025–26 La Liga fixtures, revealing when the season's opening El Clásico will take place.
Barcelona vs. Real Madrid: First El Clasico of 2025-26 Date Confirmed
Real Madrid will welcome Barcelona to the Santiago Bernabéu for the season's inaugural Clásico during La Liga's 10th matchweek on Oct. 26. Los Blancos will be eager to deliver an improved performance before their supporters after suffering a crushing 4–0 defeat to Barcelona in their most recent Clásico at the Bernabéu.
Barcelona will play host to Real Madrid for the consecutive season during matchweek 35, though this time they'll do so at their beloved renovated Camp Nou on May 10. With only three La Liga fixtures remaining after this encounter, it possesses all the elements of a potential championship-deciding match.