FC Barcelona presented their squad to the fans today at the Spotify Camp Nou prior to the kickoff of the 61st Joan Gamper Trophy match.
The entire squad, along with La Masia prospects who have been doing pre-season with the senior team, walked on to the pitch at the Spotify Camp Nou before the game against Al Ahly.
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The three major new arrivals, Rodri , Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi generated the most excitement among the fans.
Barcelona supporters were especially enthusiastic about Rodri, who chose Barcelona over their eternal rivals Real Madrid.
Hansi Flick addresses fans
Barcelona manager Hansi Flick experienced his third squad presentation with plenty of emotion. It was his first time addressing supporters at Spotify Camp Nou, and Hansi spoke to them in Catalan, as he said:
“I’m very happy to be here. When I lost my father, I received incredible support from the Barça family. You were there for my family. From the bottom of my heart, thank you very much.”
Flick received another huge ovation before expressing his ambitions for the season:
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“We have a great team thanks to Deco and Laporta. We’re ready to fight for every trophy. We need all the Barça fans. Together we’re stronger. Visca el Barça i Visca Catalunya.“
Raphinha makes his debut as captain
Barcelona’s provisional first captain, Raphinha, also addressed the supporters for the first time as the squad’s leading representative.
His speech included a heartwarming message for injured teammate Roony Bardghji.
“Good afternoon, Cules. I want to wish Roony a speedy recovery. He’s going through a difficult time. He’s a spectacular kid and a great player. He can count on us for whatever he needs,” he said.
Raphinha also congratulated the Barcelona players who have just returned after winning the World Cup with Spain.
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“I want to congratulate the world champions. They’ve done a spectacular job. Be proud. You’ll be written into the history of world football,” he said.
The Brazilian then welcomed the new signings, while also reflecting on what representing Barcelona means to him, saying:
“Wearing this shirt is a huge responsibility, but it’s one of the most beautiful things I’ve experienced in my life. It will be the same for the new signings. We’ll be available to help them and make them feel at home.”
Concluding, he said: “We’ll keep growing as a team. We’ll need everyone’s support, as you’ve always given us. We’ll do everything we can to fight for every trophy.”
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