Barcelona’s fifth and final preseason match ended in a 3-0 defeat to AS Monaco during the Joan Gamper Trophy at Montjuïc Olympic Stadium on Monday night. It was a disappointing performance from Barcelona under Hansi Flick, marked by a lack of offensive effectiveness, defensive lapses, and a struggle to reach their best form ahead of their La Liga opener against Valencia on Saturday.
**FIRST HALF**
Barcelona nearly scored within the first minute when Raphinha’s cross found Pau Víctor unmarked at the far post, but the young striker missed the target. This chance turned out to be Barcelona's best of the half. Despite some promising combinations in midfield and several attempts to release their forwards, Barça couldn’t find the final pass or create significant opportunities.
However, the team displayed positive aspects: their pressing and off-ball intensity were effective in regaining possession, and the midfield contributions from young players Marc Bernal and Marc Casadó were commendable. Bernal’s passing linked the lines well, while Casadó’s movement kept the attacks fluid.
The back four maintained a high defensive line, which occasionally put them at risk but generally avoided trouble. The closest either team came to scoring in the first half was Raphinha’s goal, which was correctly disallowed for offside. The first period ended with a lively and intense display from Barça, despite the lack of goals.
**SECOND HALF**
Barcelona's second half began poorly, as a routine goal-kick turned into a disaster. Iñigo Martínez's pass to Bernal was intercepted by Lamine Camara, who then scored to give Monaco an unexpected lead just five minutes in.
Monaco doubled their lead shortly after, exploiting Barça's offside trap when Takumi Minamino’s pass set up Breel Embolo, who lobbed Marc-André ter Stegen to make it 2-0.
With 25 minutes remaining, Flick made several changes, including giving Lamine Yamal his preseason debut. Yamal almost made an immediate impact with a brilliant pass to Pau Víctor, who attempted to lob the Monaco goalkeeper but missed.
Barcelona’s attacking play improved somewhat with Yamal’s introduction, as he brought energy and risk-taking to the team. However, their momentum was short-lived. Christian Mawissa sealed Monaco’s victory with a left-footed strike five minutes before the end.
The final whistle marked a disappointing end to the match for Barcelona, who struggled throughout and conceded poorly. Despite this setback, the overall preseason has had positive moments, but it’s clear that Barcelona has significant areas to address under Hansi Flick before their league campaign begins.
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