The World Cup has concluded after 39 days and 104 matches. Memories of fans celebrating in unique ways and experiencing overwhelming joy are fresh in our minds. If you’re new to soccer, you might be wondering what’s next. Several major events await.
The Women’s World Cup in Brazil kicks off in June, and the United Kingdom is set to host the men’s Euros in 2028. Soccer takes hardly any break, with players soon returning to their clubs for new seasons in prestigious leagues such as England’s Premier League, Spain’s La Liga, and Germany’s Bundesliga. The Champions League also offers top-tier European soccer. Here’s a guide to these leagues and how you can follow them.
Premier League
The Premier League is known for its wealth, featuring giants like Arsenal and Manchester City. It’s also home to competitive underdogs like Bournemouth and Brighton & Hove Albion. Fans create vibrant atmospheres with unique chants, and both players and coaches bring dynamic personalities to the fore.
Key Players
- Erling Haaland, Manchester City: Famous for 112 goals in four seasons.
- Enzo Fernández, Chelsea: Known for a significant strike in Argentina’s semifinal win, causing controversy.
- Bukayo Saka, Arsenal: The English midfielder plays a key role at Arsenal.
- Tyler Adams, Bournemouth: An instrumental American midfielder since 2023.
How to Watch
Matches mostly occur on weekends, but weekday games can happen. Expect early starts if you’re on the West Coast, with many matches at 10 a.m. ET and a marquee at 12:30 p.m. Networks like NBC, USA Network, and Peacock broadcast these games.
2026-2027 Season Dates: Aug. 21 – May 30
La Liga
Domination by Real Madrid and Barcelona is common in La Liga. The league showcases creative play and fierce competition, especially in El Clásico matches.
Key Players
- Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid: England’s top talent with notable performances.
- Lamine Yamal, Barcelona: Emerged as a star since Messi’s departure.
- Marc Cucurella, Real Madrid: Newly transferred with distinct play style.
- Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid: Remarkable talent with consistent World Cup contributions.
How to Watch
Games start later than Premier League ones, ideal for non-morning people. ESPN+ provides coverage, with top matches on ABC, ESPN, or ESPN2.
2026-2027 Season Dates: Aug. 15 – May 30
Bundesliga
The Bundesliga features passionate fans and offensive gameplay. Noteworthy is Borussia Dortmund’s fan section, known as the “Yellow Wall.” Dominance by Bayern Munich is frequent.
Key Players
- Harry Kane, Bayern Munich: A strong presence since 2023.
- Michael Olise, Bayern Munich: Impressive World Cup and Bundesliga performances.
- Yan Diomandé, RB Leipzig: A promising player attracting attention.
How to Watch
The Bundesliga signed a deal with USA Network and Fandango for English-language broadcasts.
2026-2027 Season Dates: Aug. 28 – May 22
Champions League
Top clubs in Europe compete in the Champions League. Clubs play in a group stage before knockout rounds. The final happens in a major European city, with the next in Madrid.
Key Points
The league features technical quality as clubs practice year-round. Many consider it a prestigious competition to win.
How to Watch
Games happen mainly on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons. Paramount+ streams all matches, and CBS broadcasts key ones, including the final.
2026-2027 Season Dates: Begins Sept. 8, final on June 5, 2027
MLS
The Major League Soccer season is already underway, having paused briefly for the World Cup. The league has improved immensely over two decades, offering thrilling games and unpredictability.
Key Players
- Lionel Messi, Inter Miami: Continued performance in MLS despite age concerns.
- Son Heung-min, LAFC: A beloved player in Los Angeles.
- Matt Freese, NYCFC: An emerging goalkeeper with talent.
How to Watch
Matches mostly occur on weekend nights. Apple TV covers all games, with Fox Sports 1 airing select ones.
2026 Season Dates: Regular season runs Feb. 21 – Nov. 7
Liga MX
Liga MX draws large viewership within the U.S., with fierce rivalries. It has two seasons each year, Apertura and Clausura, crowning different champions.
Key Players
- Gilberto Mora, Club Tijuana: Gained fans’ affection during recent events.
How to Watch
Available in English through CBS Sports Network or Fox Sports. Spanish-language broadcasts are predominant, including on Univision and Telemundo.
2026-2027 Season Dates: Apertura ends in December, Clausura begins early 2027