Soccer Beyond the World Cup: A Guide to Major Leagues

The World Cup has concluded after 39 days and 104 matches. The celebrations and unique fan traditions have come to an end. As a new soccer enthusiast, you might wonder what’s next. Fortunately, major summer tournaments are on the horizon. The Women’s World Cup in Brazil starts in June. The UK will host the men’s Euros in 2028.

Soccer has a short break. Players will soon return to their clubs. They’ll gear up for new seasons in leagues like England’s Premier League, Spain’s La Liga, and Germany’s Bundesliga. The Champions League, featuring Europe’s top teams, also promises high-stakes matches.

Premier League

The Premier League is known for its financial power and intense competition. Clubs like Arsenal and Manchester City are prominent. Teams like Bournemouth and Brighton & Hove Albion bring unexpected challenges. The atmosphere in matches is electric, with passionate chants from fans. Each 38-match season is full of drama.

Notable Players

• Erling Haaland, Manchester City: The Norwegian forward is famous for scoring goals. He made a significant impact on social media with his lively personality.
• Enzo Fernández, Chelsea: His goal for Argentina brought attention during the World Cup.
• Bukayo Saka, Arsenal: Nicknamed “Starboy,” he’s a standout player for Arsenal.
• Tyler Adams, Bournemouth: The American midfielder is a key player for his team.

How to Watch

Matches often occur on Saturdays and Sundays, sometimes on weekdays. Early-morning starts are common, especially for West Coast viewers. NBC, USA Network, and Peacock broadcast games. Check online listings for details.

2026-2027 Season Dates: Aug. 21 – May 30

La Liga

La Liga is dominated by giants Real Madrid and Barcelona. They usually compete for the title and meet in El Clásico. Creative, attacking talent defines this league.

Notable Players

• Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid: The English midfielder has excelled for Real Madrid.
• Lamine Yamal, Barcelona: The young talent is a rising star since Messi.
• Marc Cucurella, Real Madrid: The defender recently joined Real Madrid.
• Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid: The French star consistently delivers remarkable performances.

How to Watch

La Liga matches start later than Premier League games. This suits U.S. fans who prefer not to wake up early. ESPN+ streams all matches. Some major games are on ABC, ESPN, or ESPN2.

2026-2027 Season Dates: Aug. 15 – May 30

Bundesliga

The Bundesliga features passionate singing from fans and aggressive play on the pitch. Dortmund’s “Yellow Wall” is especially noteworthy. Bayern Munich often wins the league.

Notable Players

• Harry Kane, Bayern Munich: As England’s captain, he impresses in Germany.
• Michael Olise, Bayern Munich: Delivered exciting World Cup performances for France.
• Yan Diomandé, RB Leipzig: Caught the attention of top Premier League teams.

How to Watch

The Bundesliga signed an English-language deal with USA Network and Fandango.

2026-2027 Season Dates: Aug. 28 – May 22

Champions League

Top clubs in European leagues qualify for the Champions League annually. The format includes group stage matches and knockout rounds. The final takes place in a major European city.

Champions League matches highlight technical excellence as clubs practice year-round. Winning this trophy is a prestigious achievement.

How to Watch

Most matches are on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons on the East Coast. Paramount+ streams all games. CBS broadcasts some marquee matches, including the final.

2026-2027 Season Dates: Starts Sept. 8, with the final on June 5, 2027

MLS

MLS continues amid European leagues’ breaks. Though not as elite, U.S. league play improves every year. New talents often join instead of aging players. Strict spending limits ensure no team dominates.

Notable Players

• Lionel Messi, Inter Miami: Proceeds to impress as he approaches 40.
• Son Heung-min, LAFC: Popular despite recent small goal tally.
• Matt Freese, NYCFC: U.S. goalkeeper showing success, working to overcome past mistakes.

How to Watch

Mostly on weekend nights. Available on Apple TV, with some on Fox Sports 1.

2026 Season Dates: Regular from Feb. 21 to Nov. 7, with playoffs afterward.

Liga MX

Liga MX is the most-watched league in the U.S., drawing large Hispanic audiences. Club América and Chivas de Guadalajara are a part of intense rivalries. Two champions are crowned annually.

Notable Players

• Gilberto Mora, Club Tijuana: Teenage star became a favorite during Mexico’s World Cup run.

How to Watch

English broadcast on CBS Sports Network or Fox Sports. Spanish networks Univision and Telemundo are popular for viewership.

2026-2027 Season Dates: Apertura began July 16, ending in December. Clausura in early 2027.

Explore these leagues for continued soccer excitement after the World Cup.