Al Ahly to face Barcelona in Joan Gamper Cup friendly on Aug 19

Al Ahly's football company announced a formal agreement with FC Barcelona to play a friendly match on 19 August as part of the 61st Joan Gamper Cup. The club aims to raise its global profile and provide its players experience against one of Europe’s most storied teams.

The timing of the match has sparked concerns within the Egyptian Professional Clubs Association, which is finalising the Egyptian Premier League schedule for the 2026‑27 season. The league is set to begin on 20 or 21 August, leaving a narrow window between the Barcelona friendly and the domestic campaign. Officials fear the limited recovery time could strain Al Ahly's squad ahead of the season opener.