An Unexpected Guest for Barça’s Big Day

The 2025 Joan Gamper Trophy now has a date, a venue… and an opponent that might catch fans off guard. The match will be held on August 10 at 9:00 PM local time at the Estadi Johan Cruyff, just days before the LaLiga season begins. While many expected a heavyweight from European football, Barça has chosen a team with special ties to the club.

The 60th edition of the Gamper will also serve as the official presentation of Hansi Flick’s squad in what promises to be a celebration of all things blaugrana. The match will mark the end of Barcelona’s Asia tour, which includes friendlies in Japan and South Korea.

A Historic First Meeting

This will be a first-ever clash between the two century-old clubs — not just in official competition, but in any context. The matchup adds a layer of historical intrigue to the occasion, making it a one-of-a-kind event.

The decision to play at the Estadi Johan Cruyff is symbolic too. It previously hosted the 2021 edition and continues to serve as an important venue while renovations at Camp Nou are underway.

Familiar Faces on the Sidelines… and the Pitch

The emotional connection to this year’s opponent runs deep. Cesc Fàbregas, a beloved Barça legend, is now the team’s head coach, while former club captain Sergi Roberto is one of its key players after ending an 18-year career at Barcelona. They’ll be joined by Àlex Valle, a La Masía product who also debuted with the first team in a friendly.

But it’s not all nostalgia. The visiting side was one of the surprise stories of last season in their domestic league, finishing 10th in their first top-flight campaign in over two decades. A perfect test for Barça… before their official debut on August 16 against Mallorca.