Barcelona invited to play pre-season friendly in Argentina against historic club in August | OneFootball

Earlier today, Barcelona officially announced their pre-season campaign ahead of the 2026-27 campaign – one that will be a relatively dull affair given that several internationals who participate in the World Cup will be unavailable.

The team’s pre-season under Hansi Flick will begin on July 13, with all players not at the World Cup set to have their routine medicals on that day.

From there, the squad will travel to England for an overseas training camp where they will base their training for a week between July 27 and August 3.

A special offer

Now, as reported by ESPN, Barcelona have been offered to play a friendly game against River Plate on August 7th or 8th at the El Monumental Stadium in Argentina. The Catalans are excited about the idea.

Barcelona have been invited to play at El Monumental. (Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)

The last time Barcelona played against River Plate was back in 2015, and the last time the club played in Argentina dates as far back as 1964.

The idea of returning to the South American country after so many years, needless to say, excites the board.

While most internationals will not be available for the normal pre-season, they are likely to be back in time for the hypothetical game against River Plate, which comes as a massive boost to the team.

After all, they are a quality opposition, and the game can serve as a real kick-start to the season with almost the whole squad expected to be available.

A potential selling point

Barcelona played against River Plate in 2015. (Photo by Atsushi Tomura/Getty Images)

Another interesting point in view of the game being contemplated is the potential move of Julian Alvarez to Barcelona.

After all, the Atletico Madrid striker has a history with the Argentine side, and it will be a pleasant reunion for him.

For Barcelona to show him off for the first time in an Argentine stadium, needless to say, will drive the stocks of the match through the roof and set up for a special night.

It will be a boost for the club in a sporting and economic sense.