Barcelona will take on Egyptian giants Al Ahly in the 2026 Joan Gamper Trophy after both clubs reached an agreement to stage the traditional pre-season fixture, according to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo.
The match is scheduled for August 19 at Camp Nou and will serve as part of Barcelona's preparations for the new season.
According to the report, the fixture carries special significance as it brings together Barcelona and one of the most successful and widely supported clubs in Africa and the Middle East.
The Catalan club also views the match as an opportunity to strengthen its presence in the Arab market, particularly in Egypt, which has a population of around 110 million.
Mundo Deportivo added that Barcelona already enjoys a large fanbase across the Arab world and considers the encounter an important step in expanding its regional profile.
The match also has an added storyline following Barcelona's signing of Egyptian forward Hamza Abdel Karim during the last winter transfer window.
The youngster joined the club's youth ranks and could be part of the occasion when his new club faces the most decorated side in African football.
The Joan Gamper Trophy traditionally marks Barcelona's final pre-season fixture before the start of the new campaign and will provide both teams with a valuable test ahead of their domestic and continental commitments.
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