Barcelona vs Monaco Prediction: Barcelona is expected to secure a 2-1 victory over Monaco in the Joan Gamper Trophy match, leveraging their home advantage and strong squad despite Monaco’s potential to challenge.
Match Details
The annual Joan Gamper Trophy match between Barcelona and Monaco is set to take place on Monday, August 12th at 7:00 PM local time at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in Barcelona. This prestigious pre-season friendly marks Barcelona’s final preparation before kicking off their 2024-25 La Liga campaign.
Match Preview
This clash represents an intriguing test for both sides as they fine-tune their preparations for the upcoming season. Barcelona, having played just three pre-season friendlies, will be eager to build momentum and integrate new signings like Olmo into their system.
Monaco, on the other hand, have had a busier pre-season schedule with six friendlies under their belt. They’ll be looking to bounce back from a recent 2-1 defeat to Genoa and prove themselves against elite European opposition.
The Joan Gamper Trophy has traditionally been a showcase for Barcelona, with the Catalan giants winning the event 46 times. Last year saw them defeat Tottenham Hotspur 4-2 in an entertaining encounter.
Barcelona vs Monaco Lineups and Team News
Barcelona
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick has a strong squad at his disposal, though he’ll be without a few key players. New signing Dani Olmo is in line to make his Barcelona debut after joining from RB Leipzig. The Spanish international could feature in attack alongside Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha.
Projected Barcelona Lineup (4-3-3): Raphinha, Casado, Gundogan, Kounde, Lenglet, Lewandowski, I. Martinez, Ter Stegen, Christensen, Balde, Olmo.
Monaco
Monaco manager Adi Hutter has brought a strong squad to Barcelona, with several new signings hoping to impress. Youssouf Fofana remains with the team despite transfer speculation linking him to AC Milan and Manchester United.
Projected Monaco Lineup (4-4-2): Salisu, Matazo, Embolo, Golovin, Singo, Fofana, Kehrer, Vanderson, Majecki, Zakaria, Balogun.
Injured and Unavailable Players
Barcelona
- Frenkie de Jong – Injury (unspecified)
- Gavi – Injury (unspecified)
- Pedri – Injury (unspecified)
- Fermin Lopez – Unavailable (Olympic duty)
- Eric Garcia – Unavailable (Olympic duty)
- Pau Cubarsi – Unavailable (Olympic duty)
Monaco
As of the latest reports, Monaco does not have any confirmed injuries or unavailable players for this match. However, some players may be rested or rotated due to the pre-season nature of the fixture.
Key Players to Watch
Barcelona: All eyes will be on Dani Olmo as he makes his Barcelona debut. The versatile attacker’s creativity and link-up play could be crucial in unlocking Monaco’s defense.
Monaco: Folarin Balogun will be eager to impress after his breakout season with Reims last year. The young striker’s movement and finishing ability will test Barcelona’s backline.
Head-to-Head Record
These two sides have limited recent history, having not met in an official competition for many years. This friendly represents a rare opportunity to see how they match up in the current era.
Form Guide
Barcelona’s Pre-season Results:
- Drew 2-2 with Manchester City (won on penalties)
- Won 2-1 against Real Madrid
- Drew 2-2 with AC Milan (lost on penalties)
Monaco’s Pre-season Results:
- Drew 1-1 with Cercle Brugge
- Drew 2-2 with Sturm Graz
- Won 3-1 against Feyenoord
- Lost 2-1 to Genoa
Where to Watch?
Barcelona vs Monaco Live Streaming and TV Schedule
- International: Barca One (YouTube)
- Spain: TV3, 3Cat
- United Arab Emirates: Abu Dhabi Sports 1
- Iran: IRIB Varzesh, Persiana Sports
- Afghanistan: Solh Sports 1
- Andorra: TV3
Who Will Win?
While pre-season results don’t always indicate regular season form, Barcelona’s quality and home advantage make them favorites. Monaco’s attacking talent could cause problems, but Barcelona’s desire to impress their home crowd should see them through.
Prediction: Barcelona 2-1 Monaco
This match promises to be an entertaining affair as both sides look to end their pre-season campaigns on a high note. Barcelona’s blend of established stars and exciting young talent should prove too much for Monaco, but expect the French side to put up a strong fight in what could be a closely contested encounter.
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