Real Madrid’s initial La Liga fixture under Jose Mourinho’s second tenure has been rescheduled. Originally set to host Real Sociedad, the club will now play an away game against Espanyol on August 22. The match against Sociedad has been shifted to August 26.
Barcelona, the reigning champions, will also delay their start. Their opening match against Athletic Bilbao is pushed to August 27, meaning they will now debut against Elche on August 23.
These adjustments were necessary due to numerous players from both major clubs participating in the World Cup semi-finals. Atletico Madrid maintains its original schedule, starting against Malaga on August 19, despite having personnel at the same tournament.
The Spanish league season commences on August 15 with two matches: Alaves against Getafe and Sevilla facing Rayo Vallecano.