League: LaLiga Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Scores & Results

FC Barcelona prepares for La Liga opener against Elche

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 23, 2026, 11:00 AM

Last updated Aug 23, 2026

FC Barcelona prepares for La Liga opener against Elche

Summary

FC Barcelona is set to face Elche on Sunday as they begin their La Liga title defense. The team aims for a third consecutive title, something they haven't achieved since 2011. Key player departures include Ferran Torres to Paris Saint-Germain and Robert Lewandowski to the Chicago Fire, leaving a gap in the attack. Anthony Gordon is expected to lead the front line, supported by Raphinha and Lamine Yamal. In defense, Joao Cancelo's recent signing leaves uncertainty at left back, with Alejandro Balde omitted from the squad and Jordi Pesquer likely to make his professional debut.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Barcelona starts their La Liga title defense against Elche on August 23.
•Key exits include Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski.
•Anthony Gordon leads the attack with Raphinha and Lamine Yamal.
•Jordi Pesquer expected to debut in left back position.
•Barcelona aims for a third consecutive title, aiming to repeat their 2011 success.

Latest Updates

11:00 AMYahoo Sports — Where to watch Elche vs. Barcelona live stream, TV channel, start time for La Liga season opening match
9:23 AMYahoo Sports — FC Barcelona Vs. Elche Line Up: Catalans Start La Liga Title Defense

What they're saying

"
FC Barcelona will travel to Elche on Sunday, to start the defense of back-to-back La Liga tiles while aiming for three in a row for the first time since 2011.
— Yahoo Sports