Stat attack: Barcelona field the youngest starting lineup in La Liga on Matchday 1 | OneFootball

Barcelona kicked off the 2025/26 La Liga campaign in style, defeating Mallorca 3-0 to claim a perfect start under Hansi Flick.

Beyond the scoreline, the game also carried special significance, as Barça set a unique record on the opening day of the season.

The Blaugrana lined up with an average age of just 23 years and 272 days, which was the youngest starting XI in La Liga’s first round of fixtures.

This put them ahead of rivals Real Madrid (25 years and 213 days), Sevilla (25 years and 345 days), Villarreal (26 years and 88 days), and Atletico Madrid (26 years and 90 days).

A look at the players

Much of the youthful feel came from a reshaped starting eleven. In goal, Joan Garcia (24) was handed the gloves in the absence of Wojciech Szczesny (35), who was unable to register in time, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen (33), who remains sidelined with injury.

In defence, Ronald Araujo (26) partnered teenage sensation Pau Cubarsi (18), while Eric Garcia (24) took over at right-back from Jules Kounde (26).

In midfield, Fermin Lopez (22) was given a surprising role as a false ‘9’, with Dani Olmo (27) introduced later in the match.

Up front, Ferran Torres (25) filled the gap left by veteran Robert Lewandowski (36), who started on the bench.

He was supported by Lamine Yamal (18) and Raphinga (28), who was the oldest player in the Barcelona lineup.

La Masia continues to lead the way

The match was another reminder of how Barcelona have reinvented themselves in recent seasons by trusting their academy.

Youngsters like Alejandro Balde (21), Gavi (21), Cubarsi (18), and Yamal (18) have become central to the project, giving the squad a fresh identity full of energy and ambition.

The balance, however, remains crucial. While the youth provide dynamism, experience is never too far away.

Leaders such as Lewandowski (36), Szczesny (35), and ter Stegen (33) continue to guide the dressing room, ensuring a blend of freshness and maturity.