Defending Spanish champions Barcelona wrapped up their pre-season schedule in emphatic fashion on Sunday, dismantling Italian side Como 5-0 in the Joan Gamper Trophy, a match that also marked a reconciliation with goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.
The fixture, held at the Johan Cruyff Stadium while renovation work continues at Camp Nou, saw double braces from Fermín Lopez and Lamine Yamal, with Raphinha adding a first-half strike to seal the dominant win.
England forward Marcus Rashford, who arrived on loan from Manchester United two weeks ago, made his first appearance for the Catalan side, coming on as a substitute. He assisted Raphinha’s goal with a precise cross but later missed a golden opportunity to score himself by failing to convert into an empty net.
Before the match, Ter Stegen addressed the crowd in his role as captain — a position restored to him just two days earlier following public tensions over the club’s management of his back injury.
“I think it was important to resolve the issue between the club and me, and now it’s time to look forward,” said the 33-year-old German. “We’re going to fight again for all the trophies and we hope that with your help we can win all the titles possible.”
Hansi Flick’s side displayed sharp movement and attacking cohesion as they prepare to open their La Liga title defence away to Mallorca on Saturday.
What You Should Know
Barcelona concluded their pre-season with a 5-0 victory over Como, highlighted by braces from Lopez and Yamal, a goal from Raphinha, and Marcus Rashford’s debut. Marc-Andre Ter Stegen’s captaincy was reinstated after resolving a dispute with the club.
