FC Seoul vs Barcelona: Pre-season Context
The fixture forms part of Barcelona’s Asia tour, with new head coach Hansi Flick fine-tuning his squad following their 3-1 victory over Vissel Kobe in Japan. Barcelona, reigning La Liga champions, aim to build momentum and integrate new signings, including Marcus Rashford, who debuted against Kobe and is expected to play an expanded role in Seoul. The pre-season tour also helps Flick evaluate younger talents such as Lamine Yamal and provides a platform for returning stars like Dani Olmo and Robert Lewandowski to regain match fitness.
FC Seoul, led by former Manchester United star Jesse Lingard, have been resurgent in domestic play, sitting fourth in K League 1 and just two points off second place. Their recent form includes victories over Daejeon Hana Citizen and Ulsan HD, signaling their intent to challenge one of Europe’s elite sides.
Key Players and Predicted Lineups
For FC Seoul, Jesse Lingard’s leadership and attacking output (seven goals and three assists in 24 games) have been pivotal. The Brazilian wingers Anderson Oliveira and Lucas Rodrigues are also in strong form, contributing a combined 16 goal involvements. FC Seoul are likely to start in a 4-4-2 formation, with Hyeon-Mu Kang in goal and a backline anchored by Yazan Abu Al-Arab and Jin-su Kim.
Barcelona, meanwhile, are expected to rotate their lineup to assess squad depth. Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Jules Koundé, and Ronald Araújo could all start after coming off the bench last match. With Marc-André ter Stegen recovering from back surgery, Joan Garcia may get the nod in goal. The attack should feature Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Raphinha, and Lewandowski, with Marcus Rashford likely to feature as a substitute as he builds match fitness.
Historical Context and Match Predictions
This encounter marks the first-ever meeting between FC Seoul and Barcelona, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the fixture. Barcelona’s superior squad depth and quality make them heavy favorites, but pre-season matches often deliver surprises as coaches experiment with lineups and tactics. Sports pundits expect Barcelona to control proceedings, with predictions leaning towards a comfortable win for the Catalan side—most likely by a two or three-goal margin. Notably, Lamine Yamal is tipped to score his first goal wearing the No.10 shirt, while Rashford could notch his inaugural Barcelona goal.
How to Watch FC Seoul vs Barcelona
The match will be held at the iconic Seoul World Cup Stadium, a venue known for hosting the 2002 FIFA World Cup semifinal. Due to previous technical issues, Barcelona have made their Asian tour matches, including this one, available to stream for free worldwide (except in South Korea) via the official Barcelona Channel. In North and South America, DAZN will also broadcast the game.
What’s Next for Both Clubs?
After facing FC Seoul, Barcelona will conclude their Asian tour against Daegu FC before returning to Spain for the traditional Joan Gamper Trophy, this year against Como 1907. Their La Liga title defense begins with an away fixture at Mallorca on August 16. FC Seoul, meanwhile, will look to build on their pre-season experience as they push for a top finish in K League 1.
For up-to-date news, transfer rumors, and more on both clubs, visit Sportstar’s Football section and Sports Illustrated FC Barcelona.