Al Ahly are not simply preparing for a new season. The Egyptian giants are getting ready for a journey of a different kind after securing a historic friendly against Barcelona in the Joan Gamper Trophy, one of the most highly anticipated fixtures in the club's preseason program.

Al Ahly Football Company announced an official agreement with the Catalan club to play the match on August 19 as part of the 61st edition of the Joan Gamper Trophy, a tournament traditionally used by Barcelona to open its new season against one of the world's leading clubs.

The agreement was reached following a visit to Spain by a delegation from Al Ahly Football Company. The delegation held discussions with Barcelona officials regarding the organizational and logistical details of the fixture before reaching a final agreement to stage the match.

The encounter carries significance beyond being a mere friendly. For Al Ahly, facing Barcelona represents another step in the club's strategy to strengthen its global presence and expand cooperation with major European clubs and sporting institutions.

According to statements by Farag Amer, the former president of Smouha Club, Al Ahly will receive €195,000 for playing the match. However, the true value of the fixture extends well beyond the financial compensation, particularly given the significant marketing and prestige benefits that come with facing one of the biggest clubs in world football.

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From Al-Nassr to Barcelona

Before heading to Europe, Al Ahly began their preseason preparations under Moroccan head coach Hussein Ammouta, who made his debut in charge during a friendly against Al-Nassr. The Red Giants secured an emphatic 5-1 victory.

Friendly matches give the coaching staff an opportunity to assess as many players as possible, test tactical ideas, and evaluate the team's readiness before entering the more demanding phase of preparations during the overseas training camp.

Spain Camp Prepares Al Ahly

The Barcelona clash will come at the end of Al Ahly's overseas training camp in Spain, which is scheduled to begin on August 6 and last for two weeks as part of an intensive preseason program. The club has already begun finalizing travel arrangements, including visa procedures for the players and coaching staff.

The coaching staff also faces the challenge of managing the squad, as Al Ahly played their friendly against Al-Nassr without several international players. Those players were granted additional rest following their participation with the Egyptian national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and are scheduled to return to team training on July 30.

Between a convincing victory over Al-Nassr, a two-week European training camp, and a highly anticipated showdown with Barcelona, Al Ahly appear to be preparing for more than just a new season. The club is setting up for an early global test that could give its fans one of the most eagerly awaited matches in the club's recent history.

Al Ahly in Spain: a preseason camp, a global test against Barcelona, and a fixture that reflects the ambitions of the Red Giants heading into a new season.