Barcelona's pre-season preparations have been overshadowed by a significant injury blow, with Frenkie de Jong diagnosed with a tear in the medial collateral ligament of his right knee. The Dutch midfielder revealed he played through the pain during the World Cup, making the news all the more concerning for Hansi Flick as the new LaLiga campaign approaches. Losing De Jong for any extended period would be a serious setback for a club already reshaping its midfield.

On the pitch, the mood remains broadly positive. Barcelona beat CE Europa 4-1 in their latest pre-season outing, and the squad is taking shape around new arrivals. Karim Adeyemi has officially joined from Borussia Dortmund on a five-year deal for a reported €29 million, providing attacking cover after Robert Lewandowski's departure and the end of Marcus Rashford's loan. The Germany international has already spoken about his Champions League ambitions and offered his take on Lamine Yamal, describing it as difficult to reach Lionel Messi's level.

The transfer picture is not yet complete. Barcelona are waiting on Julian Alvarez to force his exit from Atletico Madrid, with president Joan Laporta making clear the club's offer will not remain open indefinitely. Atletico's president has fired back publicly, raising the temperature around a saga that could define the summer. Ferran Torres, meanwhile, is reportedly ready to accept a PSG offer after rejecting Barcelona's renewal terms, adding further urgency to the club's recruitment plans. A friendly against Birmingham City on July 31 is next up as preparations continue.