The 2026/27 LaLiga campaign is set to begin this weekend, with attention already turning to the teams expected to challenge for the Spanish league title.

According to a prediction from the Opta supercomputer, defending champions Barcelona are the leading favourites to retain their crown.

The Catalan giants have been given a 45.6 per cent probability of finishing the season as champions after their success in the previous campaign.

Real Madrid are ranked as the second strongest contenders, with a 31.0 per cent chance of winning the league.

The prediction comes as the Spanish giants prepare for another title battle under manager Mourinho.

Atletico Madrid are placed third among the leading contenders, although their chances are significantly lower at 8.6 per cent.

Villarreal follow with a 3.3 per cent probability, while Real Betis complete the projected top five with a 2.1 per cent chance of lifting the trophy.

The new LaLiga season will officially get underway on Saturday, August 15, 2026. The opening fixture will see Deportivo Alaves take on Getafe, with the match scheduled for 7:30 pm local time.

While the title race is expected to involve several established clubs, the supercomputer has also identified three teams it believes could struggle to remain in the division.

Getafe, Alaves and Osasuna have been tipped for relegation at the end of the campaign, setting up a potentially difficult season for the three clubs.