The Joan Gamper Trophy, tonight celebrating its Golden Wedding Anniversary, normally serves as the backdrop to the pre-season mystique, where Barcelona habitually show off their new signings to the azulgrana faithful.
However, following the ban imposed by FIFA, Barça will not have the chance to parade their new signings tonight. But those in attendance inside the Camp Nou or watching the game on TV will be encouraged by Messi’s return to the fray after he cut his holidays short to be back in time to compete in the Super Cup on 11 August. Messi’s return will bring a smile back on the faces of the Barça players, and his presence is expected to inject quality back into the side.
Messi will also be joined by Mascherano, as well as Claudio Bravo, although in the Chilean’s case it’s hard to see him getting much game-time after only completing one training session at the same pace as his team-mates. The Gamper opponents on this occasion will be Roma, previously coached by Luis Enrique, before the serious business begins for the reigning Liga, Copa del Rey and European champions as they face Sevilla.
Los Azulgranas still have a few issues to resolve, and tonight is a good chance to make a start. Barcelona’s pre-season campaign has seen them play four matches, three in their tour of the US and one against Fiorentina, in a scenario that has already been played out on repeat – no cause for concern but an indication they currently have their foot off the gas. With the addition of the South American contingent, Luis Enrique will be looking to step up the pace, particularly with the Super Cup and opening day of the league season on the horizon. This is where the Gamper will come into play, as in times gone by.
Roma with Keita, Falque and Sanabria in tow
The game against Roma would suggest there is more to it than just a routine pre-season friendly, especially with the return of three players with Barcelona connections: Keita, Falque and Sanabria. Without doubt, the first of those names left the biggest impression on the Catalan club after being part of the first treble-winning side. Falque didn’t make the first team, while Sanabria left at a young age. All three will be eager to return to the Camp Nou.