FC Barcelona has decided to scrap a planned pre-season friendly in Morocco, citing the instability surrounding the border crisis in Ceuta. The Spanish club was originally scheduled to play Ittihad Riadi Tangier on August 15. In an official release, the team stated that holding the event would be inappropriate given the prevailing circumstances.
Although the club refrained from explicitly naming the cause, reports indicate the choice stems from the recent surge of approximately 78,000 migrants entering the Spanish enclave. This movement resulted in numerous fatalities and strained relations across European Union member states. While many migrants have since returned to Moroccan territory, thousands remain in Ceuta, leading countries like Italy to temporarily adjust Schengen border agreements.
This marks another disruption to Barcelona’s schedule, following the cancellation of a game against Preston North End. Manager Hansi Flick is now refocusing the squad, with upcoming matches against Nottingham Forest and Al Ahly before the team starts its La Liga title defense against Elche on August 23.
