In a 5-0 thumping of Italian team Como on Sunday, reigning Spanish champions Barcelona wrapped up their preseason preparations and signaled a healing of their relationship with goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.
Two weeks after the England forward joined on loan from Manchester United, Barca also offered Marcus Rashford a cameo.
The Joan Gamper Trophy victory was secured by a goal from Brazilian Raphinha in the first half and two goals from Fermín Lopez and Lamine Yamal.
As they are ready to start their Liga championship defense away to Mallorca on Saturday, Hansi Flick’s team displayed fluency during the game, which was played at the Johan Cruyff Stadium inside the team’s training complex while Barcelona waits for the much-delayed modernization of Camp Nou to be finished.
Only a few days after his disagreement with the club over how to handle his back injury surfaced, Ter Stegen delivered the customary captain’s speech from the field prior to Sunday’s game.
Two days after regaining his captaincy, the 33-year-old German goalie stated, “I think it was important to resolve the issue between the club and me, and now it’s time to look forward.”
Ter Stegen informed the supporters, “We’re going to fight again for all the trophies and we hope that with your help we can win all the titles possible.”
Rashford had mixed luck, as he missed the opportunity to tap into an empty net but also set up Raphinha’s goal with a cross.
