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| Xavi Hernandez during the match between FC Barcelona and Deportivo Alaves, corresponding to the week 13 of LaLiga EA Sports, played at the Olympic Stadium Lluis Companys, in Barcelona, on 12th November 2023. |
It has been speculated for quite some time now that Barcelona will be arranging a friendly match next month in order to generate some revenue in the lead-up to the January transfer window.
Even though some details about the friendly had emerged in the media, nothing was set in stone as reports suggested that Barça were yet to fully decide whether to play the match in the USA or the Middle East.
Dallas selected as location, Club America the opponents
However, as per the latest update from Fernando Polo of Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona will be facing Mexican outfit Club America in the friendly encounter which will take place on December 21 in Dallas, USA.
In exchange for the match, the Blaugrana are expected to generate a sum of €5 million, which is not insignificant considering their financial situation.
The club’s commercial department has been busy with the negotiation for this match, which will take place after the last league fixture before the Christmas break.
Barça are due to play Almería in a midweek fixture (it should be on 19 December, according to their request to La Liga, who must validate this date).
The idea is that after facing off against Almeria they will travel to Dallas to play this exhibition match against Club America.
It is no secret that Barcelona are once again in a tricky situation when it comes to the Financial Fair Play situation.
And in order to sign or register any players in January, they need to generate fresh revenue. Much will hinge on whether Barça receive the €40 million payment owed by Libero in time or not.
However, any additional income, like the €5 million that will end up in the coffers thanks to the friendly vs Club America, will be very much welcome at the Catalan club.