Barca's Japan Tour Chaos! Contract Breach & Last-Minute Drama!

By: Marcelo Colombo Published On: 27/07/2025

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The highly anticipated friendly match between Vissel Kobe and FC Barcelona on July 27, 2025, was filled with drama both on and off the pitch. The game itself ended in a draw, with Taisei Miyashiro scoring for Vissel Kobe and Eric García for Barcelona. The first half concluded with a 1-1 scoreline, and while Taisei Miyashiro nearly scored again with a free kick, the game remained tied.

However, the match was overshadowed by a serious contractual dispute. FC Barcelona released a statement announcing the suspension of their participation in a scheduled match in Japan due to a grave breach of contract by the promoter. The club is considering adjusting the summer tour to include matches in South Korea against FC Seoul and Daegu FC, provided certain conditions are met by the promoter. FC Barcelona expressed regret for the disruption and its impact on fans in Japan.

Adding to the drama, Barcelona's arrival in Japan was delayed by 24 hours. The team, led by coach Hansi Flick, eventually made it to Japan after a 13-hour flight and trained at Noevir Stadium Kobe. Rakuten CEO Hiroshi Mikitani, whose company sponsors the Asian tour, greeted the Barcelona delegation, highlighting Rakuten's role in facilitating the club's arrival with an €8 million payment.

Despite the challenges, Hansi Flick is using the tour to refine tactics and integrate new signings Joan Garcia and Marcus Rashford. With key players like Ter Stegen and Oriol Romeu absent, Flick aims to improve the team's performance and compete for the Champions League. The pre-season tour allows him to implement his tactical vision, including a high defensive line.