Barcelona scrap River Plate plan as Liverpool pre-season friendly in Kenya returns to the agenda – report

Barcelona’s pre-season plans have taken yet another turn, with a proposed friendly against River Plate now officially off the table.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the possibility of Hansi Flick’s side travelling to Buenos Aires to face the Argentine giants at the Monumental Stadium has been discarded. 

Instead, Barcelona are currently evaluating alternative options as they look to complete their pre-season schedule ahead of the new campaign.

One of those alternatives could see the Blaugrana take on Liverpool in a high-profile friendly that has unexpectedly returned to the agenda.

River Plate proposal no longer part of Barcelona’s plans

The idea of facing River Plate had generated considerable interest due to the stature of both clubs and the appeal of hosting the match in Argentina.

However, the outlet reports that the proposal has now been ruled out and with that option gone, the club’s focus has shifted towards other potential fixtures that can better fit the team’s schedule.

Barcelona will not play against River Plate. (Photo by Franklin Jacome/Getty Images)

Barcelona have already mapped out part of their pre-season programme, but several dates remain open, and discussions are ongoing regarding possible opponents.

Liverpool friendly in Kenya back on the table

On that note, the most notable development concerns Liverpool.

A proposal to stage a friendly between Barcelona and the Premier League side in Nairobi, Kenya, has resurfaced after previously losing momentum.

The match had initially been placed on hold because of concerns surrounding an Ebola outbreak in neighbouring countries. 

However, with the situation reportedly improving, the possibility of organising the fixture has returned.

Barcelona could face Liverpool in Kenya. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

Should the plans move forward, Barcelona would gain a valuable test against one of Europe’s strongest sides just weeks before the new season begins.

Lastly, it is also said that the option of playing a friendly in Rabat, Morocco, also remains under consideration.

Important pre-season dates

While discussions continue regarding additional fixtures, several key dates are already confirmed.

Barcelona will hold a training camp at St. George’s Park in England from July 27 to August 3, where they are scheduled to face Birmingham City and another Championship side behind closed doors.

The club will then conclude its pre-season preparations with the traditional Joan Gamper Trophy at Spotify Camp Nou on August 19, although an opponent has yet to be confirmed.