Barcelona fears friendly with Tangier could be scrapped on August 15

Barcelona's pre-season friendly against IR Tangier scheduled for August 15 in Morocco is now in doubt, according to Mundo Deportivo. Although the match was signed under contract and even announced locally, the migrant crisis affecting Ceuta has created social and political tension that has forced the club to assess its viability.

The Blaugrana have sent representatives to Tangier to check on the ground whether it is advisable to play. So far, they have not made an official announcement amid the uncertain situation. Sources consulted by MD cannot guarantee the match will go ahead, and the board has raised ministerial consultations to reach a decision. The fixture would generate €4.5 million in revenue for the club.

This encounter would be the first pre-season match with the full squad, as the world champion internationals are due to join on August 12. If cancelled, Flick's pre-season would be reduced to two 90-minute friendlies against Al Ahly and Birmingham, plus two 45-minute matches against Udinese and Nottingham Forest.