The 2024-25 season for FC Barcelona’s men’s first team officially begins on Monday as they host AS Monaco at the Montjuic Stadium. This match will be part of the Joan Gamper Trophy, a prestigious friendly tournament named in honor of the club’s founder, Joan Gamper.
A First Look at Hansi Flick’s Barcelona
For fans in Catalonia, this will be the first chance to see Hansi Flick’s team up close after their recent preseason tour in the United States. During that tour, Barcelona secured two impressive victories against Manchester City and Real Madrid, although they lost to AC Milan in a penalty shootout.
Due to some players participating in the Euro 2024 and the Olympic Games, Flick had to rely on younger and less experienced players during the tour. Now, with more seasoned players back in the squad, the game against AS Monaco will feature a stronger lineup.
Barcelona’s Lineup for the Match
Hansi Flick is expected to field a mostly experienced defense. The team’s goalkeeper, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who is likely to be the new captain after Sergi Roberto announced his departure from the club after 18 years, will lead the team.
Alejandro Balde, who has recovered from a serious injury that ended his last season, will take the left-back position. Inigo Martinez and Andreas Christensen will pair up as the center-backs, though Martinez is currently unregistered. Jules Kounde is expected to play as the right-back.
Midfield and Attack
In the midfield, Barcelona will rely on a mix of youth and experience. La Masia talents Marc Bernal and Marc Casado, who impressed during the American tour, will join the experienced Ilkay Gundogan in a three-man midfield.
In the attack, Robert Lewandowski will take his usual position as the central striker. On the wings, Pau Victor will play on the right, and Brazilian international Raphinha will be on the left. Euros 2024 winners Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo might not be fully match-fit, so they may not start the game.
Possible Appearances from New and Returning Stars
Although this is still a preseason match, there is a chance that fans might see some exciting players in action. Dani Olmo, who recently transferred to Barcelona for $60 million, could make an appearance during the match. Last year, Lamine Yamal had a standout performance in this same match against Tottenham Hotspur, helping to secure a dramatic comeback. Fans will be eager to see if he can replicate that magic this year.
As Barcelona prepares to face AS Monaco, the Joan Gamper Trophy offers an early glimpse of what to expect from Hansi Flick’s team this season. With a blend of experienced players and promising young talent, Barcelona fans have much to look forward to as the new season gets underway.
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