The FC Barcelona delegation arrived in Osaka at 7:43 AM after a lengthy 12-hour flight. Following their arrival, coach Flick’s team engaged in an activation session at the hotel and will practice later in the afternoon at the Vissel Kobe field.
This marks the beginning of the first leg of their Asian tour, which will also take them to South Korea later on. The team experienced a delay of one day due to an issue with a payment from the Japanese co-organizer of the tour. However, Barcelona quickly mobilized to resolve the problem in time for their first friendly match scheduled against Vissel Kobe tomorrow. The club was optimistic about departing on the original date; however, complications arose with flight crew rest protocols and catering availability.
Around 50 enthusiastic Japanese fans awaited the team’s arrival at the hotel amid the sweltering heat, many donning jerseys of rising star Lamine Yamal. While they had limited opportunities to catch glimpses of the players, some athletes responded to fan chants with friendly gestures. After checking in, the players rested until 11:30 AM before partaking in their activation session back at the hotel. Their first training in Kobe is set for 6 PM at the Noevir Stadium, which is expected to draw a large crowd.
The delegation is led by club president Joan Laporta, accompanied by sporting vice president Rafa Yuste, treasurer Ferran Olivé, and several board members, including Miquel Camps and others. Notably, the sporting director, Deco, remained in Barcelona to facilitate player transfers. Also part of the traveling party are family members and Albert Luque, a representative of the tour organizing company.
This tour presents an excellent opportunity for FC Barcelona to connect with their Asian fanbase and showcase their talents on an international stage. It’s a moment for both the players and fans to come together, fostering unity and excitement for football in the region.