First days of Barça’s preseason: Still some unanswered questions

As preparations continue, the day of Barça’s first preseason test is approaching. On Wednesday, they will face Gimnàstic, with a game against Girona following up just 3 days later. And while the main squad core is yet to return from vacation, this won’t be a meaningless couple of games.

First of all, this is where Ronald Koeman will finally present us with his ideas for the upcoming campaign. Last year, he had little time to prepare for 20/21, but now there’s no such excuse. Even with many youngsters in his disposal, he will have to organise our game and give us a taste of what’s to come. Will we get more aggressive or stick with the pace shown last term? We’ll find out very soon.

Besides, this is a golden chance for some players to prove themselves, and maybe turn their fortunes around to secure a spot in the team for next season. Neto, Sergi Roberto, Pjanic, Coutinho… All of them are fighting for survival at Barça, and this could be their final opportunity to shine. If they don’t, they will inevitably depart.

And finally, there’s the youngsters. From Iñaki Peña, Collado and Nico, who are desperate to get promoted, to Gavi and Alejandro Baldé who are looking to gain experience in the first team, it will be fascinating to find out who fares the best. And let’s not forget about Yusuf Demir and Kays Ruiz-Atil, two newcomers that could also play should the occasion arise.

While not entirely revealing, Barça’s preseason will certainly give us some feedback on the work that has been put in. This should be an absorbing couple of days full of action and discussion.