Barcelona head into pre-season carrying a significant injury concern after Frenkie de Jong returned from the World Cup with a serious knee problem that could keep him sidelined for up to six months. The club is reportedly furious with Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman and the Dutch medical staff, feeling they were misled about the midfielder's condition. Losing De Jong for that length of time would be a major blow to Hansi Flick's midfield options as the new season approaches.

Off the pitch, the club has moved quickly in the transfer market. Karim Adeyemi arrived in the city to complete his medical, with a €29m deal from Borussia Dortmund close to being finalised. President Joan Laporta also confirmed that Raphinha remains part of the club's plans despite interest from Saudi Arabia. The pursuit of Julian Alvarez has grown more urgent, with Laporta warning Atletico Madrid that Barcelona's offer carries a deadline, though Atletico president Enrique Cerezo fired back publicly in what has become a tense cross-city standoff.

Meanwhile, the club faces a potential defensive headache, with Bayern Munich making formal enquiries for Jules Kounde following his strong international summer. Barcelona finished LaLiga as champions with 94 points, eight clear of Real Madrid, but the squad is being reshaped. Robert Lewandowski has departed for Chicago Fire, and uncertainty surrounds Ferran Torres, with sporting director Deco reportedly reluctant to extend his contract due to financial complications tied to Manchester City.