Official: Barcelona confirm opponents and new venue for Gamper Trophy match

FC Barcelona has officially announced its opponent for the prestigious Joan Gamper Trophy ahead of the 2025/26 season, confirming a clash with Italian side Como 1907. In a significant update, the club also revealed a change in venue for the traditional curtain-raiser, with the match now set to take place at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys on Montjuïc, rather than the iconic Spotify Camp Nou. This decision underscores the ongoing impact of the Espai Barça project and the club’s continued adaptation to its temporary home.

The shift to Montjuïc for the Gamper Trophy is a direct consequence of the extensive renovation work at Spotify Camp Nou. While the club had initially hoped for a full return to their spiritual home by the summer of 2025, this announcement suggests that the stadium's phased reopening will extend into the early part of the 2025/26 campaign. The Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys has served as Barcelona’s temporary ground since the start of the 2023/24 season, and its continued use for such a significant pre-season event highlights the monumental scale and meticulous timeline of the Camp Nou redevelopment. For fans, it means another season, at least partially, without the full capacity and familiar atmosphere of their beloved stadium, prompting further adjustments for matchday experiences.

The selection of Como 1907 as the opponent adds an intriguing narrative to the Gamper Trophy. The Italian club has enjoyed a remarkable ascent, achieving back-to-back promotions to secure their place in Serie A for the upcoming season. Their rise has been fueled by ambitious Indonesian ownership and features a strong footballing identity, notably with legends like Cesc Fàbregas and Thierry Henry involved in their coaching and advisory structures. For Como, facing a global giant like Barcelona in a high-profile friendly offers an unparalleled opportunity for international exposure and a formidable test of their newfound top-flight credentials. For Barcelona, it provides a chance to face a fresh, ambitious side that will be eager to make a statement on a grand stage.

The Joan Gamper Trophy, named after the club's founder, holds immense symbolic importance for FC Barcelona. It traditionally serves as the official presentation of the new squad to the home supporters, an opportunity for new signings to make their debut, and a final tune-up before the competitive season kicks off. As the club navigates the complexities of its stadium project and prepares for the challenges of domestic and European competition in the 2025/26 season, this particular Gamper will be watched closely not just for the performance on the pitch, but also for what it signals about the club's readiness and ongoing transition.