As Barcelona edges closer to securing the La Liga title, the club is already shifting focus to what promises to be an exciting pre-season campaign. With the current season reaching its climax, behind-the-scenes preparations for 2024-25 are in full swing—and the highlight could be a classic European showdown.
For decades, the Joan Gamper Trophy has served as Barcelona's traditional curtain-raiser, a friendly hosted at Camp Nou that gives fans a first look at the squad before competitive action begins. This year, the fixture—expected between August 12 and 15—carries extra intrigue, as the Blaugrana are reportedly pushing to face Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam.
According to reports, Ajax is the clear frontrunner for the honor, though RB Leipzig and an Al-Ahly side (either the Egyptian or Saudi club) remain alternatives. A final decision is expected in the coming weeks, but for now, all signs point to a renewal of a historic rivalry that has produced some of football's most memorable moments.
Beyond the Gamper Trophy, Barcelona is taking a unique approach to pre-season. Instead of a traditional summer tour, the team will hold a training camp in Birmingham, England, from July 27 to August 4. During this period, they're expected to play one or two friendlies—at least one against an English club—offering a chance to test themselves against Premier League opposition.
After returning from Birmingham on August 4, the schedule heats up further. The club is planning a friendly in Morocco, followed by a highly lucrative fixture against Liverpool in Kenya. That match alone could generate between €4 and €5 million in revenue, highlighting the growing commercial appeal of pre-season football in emerging markets.
For Barcelona fans, this summer promises a blend of tradition and innovation—from the iconic Gamper Trophy to ambitious international friendlies. And with La Liga's new season kicking off on August 15, every match will be a crucial step in Hansi Flick's preparations for what they hope will be another title-winning campaign.