La Liga returns as newly promoted Levante UD hosts last season's champions, FC Barcelona, at the Ciutat de València. Levante arrive in search of their first win since promotion back to the top flight of Spanish football, while Barcelona will aim to continue their winning start under head coach Hansi Flick. There is a huge gap in quality and depth following Levante's relegation in the previous season, therefore possibly making this a tough match for them and a chance for Barcelona to show their championship credentials.

Levante made it to La Liga after winning the Segunda División in 2024/25 but were unlucky in their first game of the season with a disappointing home defeat of 1-2 to Alavés, who they were expected to compete against more strongly.

Levante has a long history of poor results against Barcelona. In their last 45 encounters, Levante has only beaten Barcelona 6 times. The last win was against Barcelona in November 2019, which is a long time ago for any team. Their memorable victory of 5-4 in May 2018 against Barcelona is well-known among their supporters.

Key summer signing Jeremy Toljan (ex-Sassuolo) scored on debut, and forward Roger Brugué, who scored 11 goals last season, will remain an important attacking outlet for them. However, with five players injured or doubtful (including Alfonso Pastor and Alan Matturro), manager Julián Calero faces a 'selection conundrum' heading into the game with Barcelona.

Defending champions Barcelona started their campaign like champions, blowing past Mallorca 3-0 away. Raphinha, Ferran Torres, and Lamine Yamal scored the goals, nicely demonstrating the attacking potency on display, especially the highly touted Yamal, who has already become a breakout star of this season.

Under Hansi Flick, Barcelona are not only looking to defend La Liga; they are also pushing for a long-awaited Champions League title. Their summer recruitment drive improved the quality of the squad, now including new signings Marcus Rashford, Joan Garcia, and Roony Bardghji.

Barcelona's squad depth is frightening all on its own—even if Ter Stegen is injured and Lewandowski is just returning to fitness, they have an attack that can destroy any backline. They scored 102 goals last season, the highest of any player in Europe’s top five leagues, and if the early indications continue, it looks like they may improve that tally this time around.

Romero will be very important for Levante in their attack. Romero will need to play a big part in holding up play and being ready to counter if Levante wishes to cause problems for Barcelona. 

The 16-year-old continues to impress, finding the back of the net 3 times now and once assisting his teammates in their last two appearances. His speed, dribbling, and creativity make him Barcelona's most potent weapon down the right flank. 

Levante will be invigorated by their home support; however, it is difficult to find any scenario where Barcelona's talented players throughout the field are not heavy favorites. I expect Barcelona to dominate possession, create multiple scoring opportunities, and maintain their perfect start to the season.