Now that the 2025/26 season is upon us, Barcelona are putting together plans for what could become one of their most demanding pre-seasons in recent years under Hansi Flick.
According to details provided by Mundo Deportivo, the Blaugrana are expected to begin preparations for his third season in charge around July 12 or 13, although some final details are still being adjusted.
What makes the schedule particularly interesting is that the FIFA World Cup will still be taking place when the squad regroups.
Barcelona’s plans for the pre-season
By the time Barcelona return for pre-season duties, the international tournament is expected to be entering its decisive phase between the quarter-finals and semi-finals.
That means several first-team stars may still be unavailable during the opening days of preparation.
Because of that, the first week of activity is likely to focus heavily on medical assessments, physical conditioning and lighter sessions at the club’s training facilities in the Ciutat Esportiva.
Barcelona will not go through a major pre-season tour. (Photo by Han Myung-Gu/Getty Images)
It also opens the door for multiple academy players to receive early opportunities with the senior squad.
Young talents are expected to be heavily involved during the initial phase of the summer, continuing Flick’s strong commitment towards integrating youth players into the first-team environment.
England training camp and African friendlies
Once the first stage of training in Spain is completed, Barcelona are expected to travel to England for a specialised training camp at St George’s Park.
The club is planning to spend around a week there between the end of July and the beginning of August.
After that, Barcelona’s pre-season tour will continue with two international friendlies in Africa.
Hansi Flick, FC Barcelona manager
Barcelona will play friendlies in Africa. (Photo by Paul Miller/Getty Images)
One match is expected to take place in Nairobi, while another is planned for Rabat during the second and third weeks of August.
The identities of the opponents have not yet been confirmed, but the matches are already generating excitement.
Barcelona to start La Liga season late
Lastly, before the competitive season officially begins, Barcelona will also play the traditional Joan Gamper Trophy match, which is expected to serve as the final preparation game before La Liga action starts.
As for La Liga, the official calendar has still not been fully confirmed. However, Barcelona are expected to begin their domestic campaign later than usual due to the number of players involved in the World Cup.
That could see Flick’s side enter the league during the second matchday instead of the opening weekend.