Barcelona Futsal Extends Andorra Preseason Camp, Engages Local Kids

FC Barcelona's futsal team has prolonged its preseason camp in Encamp until Friday, scheduling double sessions on Thursday before a final morning workout and departure.

The squad, coached by Javi Rodríguez, arrived on Monday after medical checks in Barcelona. It began afternoon training that day at the Complex Esportiu i Sociocultural, emphasizing stamina-building exercises for a campaign targeting all major trophies, including a return to Champions League contention after last season's Spanish league title.

On Wednesday morning, around 30 children from Encamp's youth services joined the professionals for drills, three short matches, and a question-and-answer session. Players including Sergio González distributed club postcards and Catalan flags, posed for photos, and presented gifts to deputy consul Xavier Fernández.

Fernández noted the 16-year partnership has established Encamp as a leading sports hub, attracting professional and amateur teams alike thanks to its facilities and services. He praised the event for giving local children a chance to play alongside and meet recent league champions.

Rodríguez described community engagement as key to growing futsal and reiterated the team's drive to compete across competitions. Captain Dídac Plana voiced satisfaction with Encamp's idyllic setting, calm atmosphere, mild weather, and setup, which support intense workloads not feasible in Barcelona during August. "We've returned to winning after a while, and now we want to keep it going," Plana said, adding that the Champions League represents the next major challenge. "Coming off a strong season last year, we're eager to compete there again and enjoy it at minimum."

Plana highlighted new signings pivot Higor da Souza and defender Souheil Mouhodine as strengthening a squad poised for success if it meshes like before.

The camp features a public training session Thursday at 6:45pm, kicking off a series of FC Barcelona visits to Encamp: handball from August 9-12, roller hockey August 17-21, and basketball in early September.