Barcelona is preparing for one of the most special moments of the season: the Joan Gamper Trophy. This year, the tournament will have a different feel and a major piece of news that has shaken up the squad.
The Gamper changes home and protagonist
The Joan Gamper Trophy, traditionally played at Camp Nou, will move this year to the Estadi Johan Cruyff. The reason is clear: Camp Nou is still under construction and won't be ready by August. Although the venue is changing, Barça fans are just as excited to see their players and the return of a promising talent.
This match will serve to present the squad and start getting the season's engine running. What everyone is waiting for is to see Marc Bernal back in action, after a year on the sidelines.
Marc Bernal, the desired return
Marc Bernal suffered an anterior cruciate ligament tear with meniscus damage in August 2024 that kept him out for almost a year. Since then, the midfielder from Berga has worked tirelessly to return to the elite. His recovery has been impeccable, and now he is about to be medically cleared.
The forecast is that on August 10, just in time for the Gamper, Bernal could get his first minutes after a long absence. His readaptation will be gradual, but the mere possibility of seeing him back on the field fills the coaching staff and fans with optimism. For Hansi Flick, his return means the comeback of the only pure defensive pivot in the squad, an essential profile for the team's tactical setup.
Frenkie de Jong, the competition intensifies
With Bernal back, Frenkie de Jong sees his spot in the starting eleven begin to waver. The Dutchman was a key piece last season, establishing himself as one of Barça's best midfielders. Bernal's arrival opens a new battle for prominence in midfield.
Flick values Bernal's defensive profile, so De Jong could play further forward or come off the bench. This competition not only creates uncertainty for De Jong, but it could also motivate him to raise his level. Without a doubt, it will be an interesting battle that will shape the direction of the Barça midfield.
The Gamper, the first real test
The Joan Gamper Trophy becomes the perfect stage to gauge Barça's readiness and, above all, to see Marc Bernal in action. The expectation is whether Flick will give him a starting spot or save him to gradually add minutes.
Whatever the decision, this match will be the prelude to a season more demanding than ever. The competition in midfield will bring freshness and strength to the team, which is looking to return to the top. Bernal's return is great news and a boost of excitement for a Barça seeking young talent and character in its midfield.