When do the major European leagues start and what are the big stories?

What the report says

BBC Sport says the 2026-27 European club season is already beginning to take shape, with La Liga starting first before Serie A, the Bundesliga and Ligue 1 follow later in August. In a preview of the continent’s major leagues, the article highlights title races, new managers, club rebuilds and several return stories that could shape the coming months.

In Spain, the main storyline is Jose Mourinho’s return to Real Madrid, more than a decade after his previous spell ended. BBC Sport says Madrid are still trying to fully settle after signing Kylian Mbappe, while Barcelona remain favourites to defend their crown and chase a third straight league title. Atletico Madrid are again expected to challenge near the top, while Valencia, Malaga and Rayo Vallecano are among the clubs facing very different off-field and squad-related pressures.

Italy’s focus is on managerial turnover and the challenge to Inter Milan’s title defence. Napoli, AC Milan, Atalanta, Lazio and Juventus all have fresh coaching setups, and BBC Sport notes that Ruben Amorim’s move to Milan will be watched closely by Manchester United supporters. It also points to Como’s first Champions League campaign and Roma’s attempt to build on a strong finish under Gian Piero Gasperini.

The preview says Bayern Munich still look the team to beat in Germany, with Harry Kane, Michael Olise and Luis Diaz central to their attack, while Schalke’s return restores a major derby. In France, Paris St-Germain are strongly tipped to extend their dominance after recent European success, though the article notes they were not flawless domestically last season and may face pressure from managerial changes at clubs such as Monaco, Lille and Lens.