One of the standout fixtures of the opening week of the 2024-25 La Liga season will see Valencia host Barcelona at Mestalla.

Valencia, who last won La Liga in 2004, have struggled in recent years, not finishing in the top four since 2019. They ended last season in ninth place, with a record of 13 wins, 10 draws, and 15 losses, finishing eight points behind seventh-placed Real Betis. 

Over the summer, Valencia played seven friendlies, concluding their pre-season with a 3-2 victory over Eintracht Frankfurt. They made three signings: Dani Gomez and Rafa Mir on loan, and Stole Dimitrievski on a free transfer. Key player Javi Guerra remained at the club despite a near move to Atletico Madrid.

Barcelona have made only two signings: Pau Victor from Girona and Dani Olmo from RB Leipzig. They continue to pursue Nico Williams from Athletic Bilbao and are expected to make more moves before the transfer window closes. Managed now by Hansi Flick, who took over from Xavi, Barcelona will be under pressure to challenge Real Madrid for the title. Despite a 3-0 loss to Monaco in the Joan Gamper Trophy, they have had some positive results in pre-season, including a win over Real Madrid and draws with Manchester City and AC Milan.

Prediction:  Valencia 1-2 Barcelona

Valencia vs Barcelona stream and TV listing

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