Barcelona launch 2025/26 campaign under Flick, targeting European glory

Barcelona kicked off the 2025/26 preseason this Sunday under the direction of Hansi Flick, with the ambition of winning the sixth Champions League in its history.

The squad has been presented in a staggered manner at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper to undergo the usual medical and physical tests prior to the first training session.

Among the new additions to the squad is Joan Garcia, who along with Roony Bardghji, who has yet to be made official, will strengthen the Azulgrana project.

Oriol Romeu, after finishing his loan spell at Girona, has provisionally returned to the club while waiting to define his future, a situation shared by Inaki Pena, Pau Víctor and Pablo Torre.

The rest of the first team players are back with the aim of earning a place in the starting eleven, although doubts remain over the futures of Ter Stegen, Christensen and Araujo.

The German goalkeeper has been told by the club that the goalkeeping options are between Joan Garcia and Szczesny, which puts Ter Stegen in a delicate situation.

Lamine Yamal, who turns 18, will inherit the number 10 shirt and is set to sign a new contract commensurate with his status as a rising star.

The likes of Raphinha, Pedri, Lewandowski, Dani Olmo, Kounde, Frenkie De Jong and Gavi will continue to form the basis of the team, pending possible reinforcements in the market.

Eight La Masia prospects have been called up to complete the first few days of training and are eligible to take part in the tour of Japan and South Korea.

Barca will play three friendlies in Asia before making their LaLiga debut on 16 August against Real Mallorca, in a season that kicks off full of excitement and demand.