Barcelona to face Al Ahly in Joan Gamper Trophy

Barcelona will use the 2026 Joan Gamper Trophy to measure themselves against African heavyweights Al Ahly, a friendly that doubles as their final pre-season rehearsal before the new campaign.

The match is scheduled for August 19 at Camp Nou, and both clubs have reportedly already agreed the fixture.

The Gamper has long been more than a summer warm-up. Across 60 editions as of 2025, it has served as Barcelona’s stage to introduce the squad, test new signings, and draw worldwide attention with high-profile opponents from Europe and beyond. Barcelona have won the competition 47 times, while FC Koln is the most successful non-Barcelona side with two victories.

Its history includes memorable moments. The inaugural 1966 edition ended with Barcelona beating FC Koln, Anderlecht, and Nantes to lift the trophy, while the highest-scoring game came in 1984, when Barcelona crushed Boca Juniors 9-1. Lionel Messi also made his Gamper debut in 2005 against Juventus at age 18 and later scored nine goals in the competition.

For Hansi Flick’s side, Al Ahly should offer a serious challenge rather than a routine summer outing.