CHENNAI: Two of the world's most storied clubs, Barcelona and Real Madrid, begin their La Liga campaigns a week later. Elsewhere on the continent, other leagues also get underway. A look at some of the storylines post the World Cup...
Vinicius renews contract and Mourinho back for another stint
After a frankly meh season at Real Madrid, they pulled out all the stops to get Vinicius Jnr to commit to a new contract amid interest from Arsenal. More importantly, they will have the familiar presence of Jose Mourinho the touchline. Can the Portuguese legend inspire the club again? Will his coaching methodologies still carry heft at one of the world's greatest clubs? How will Kylian Mbappe line up with Jude Bellingham and Vinicius under Mourinho? What of Yan Diomande, the side's nine-figure acquisition in the off season? So many questions await.
Barcelona primed to retain title
Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi are their eye-catching transfer but the signing of Rodri has likely been made to make them standout in European ties. They have tried to buy Julian Alvarez but Atletico Madrid have refused to come to the table so far. Last season, they almost coasted to the title but expect a stiffer challenge this year thanks to changes elsewhere. Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres have left the club and Marcus Rashford will not be coming back but their departures may not be felt
Will anybody stop Inter's march?
Inter Milan cantered to the title last year and the smart money is on them continuing the dominance this season as well provided they can retain the services of Lautaro Martinez. AC Milan signing Ruben Amorim is certainly an interesting plot twist after the dismal time he endured at United. There have been other coaching changes as well at other clubs. Will the highly-rated Cesc Fabregas continue catching the eye? Again, another league with a fair few questions but Inter remain the top dogs.
Bayern remain the team to beat in Germany
Vincent Kompany's Bayern Munich enjoyed a march to the title last year as none of the other big clubs even managed to get near them. Expect that status quo to continue this year as well as they have retained significant firepower in the form of Michael Olise and Harry Kane. In terms of significant additions, watch out for Ismael Saibari (Bayern), Konstantinos Karetsas (Dortmund). Leverkusen, who strode to the title in 2024, have lost most of their players from that team. Could be a big season for the German players as they will have the chance to impress new national team coach Jurgen Klopp.