Dates for the diary in 2022/23
With the 2021/22 season now ended, we can already start thinking about 2022/23 has in store. With the Qatar 2022 World Cup being played right in the middle of it, we already know that it is going to be a season like none before, and here are some of the red-letter dates that you’ll need to note in your diaries.
August 12: La Liga starts
After having to settle for second place this season, although that was a much better finish then some might have anticipated mid-season, Barça will be aiming to win the title for the 26th time.
September 6: Champions League starts
There was a time when it wasn’t certain whether the Catalans would even be playing in the biggest club competition next season. But those concerns were quickly laid to rest and Barça will be battling for a place in the final in Istanbul.
October 19: Copa del Rey starts
Although the cup gets going in October, Barça and the other three teams playing the Spanish Super Cup will get a bye through to a later round. Betis are the defending champions following an edition when Barça were knocked out by Athletic Club.
November 9: La Liga takes a break
In an unprecedented situation, domestic football will go on hold for a month and half due to the World Cup being held in for the first time in the winter.
November 21: World Cup starts
Following a short period of preparations for the 32 participant countries, several of which will feature Barça players, the big event in Qatar finally gets under way with the teams battling for a place in the December 18 final.
December 29: La Liga resumes
With the World Cup is over, and following a shortened Christmas break, the club season can get going again.
January 11-15: Spanish Super Cup
King Abdullah Sports City is the venue as Saudi Arabia again hosts this mid-season tournament, where Barça will play cup champions Betis in the semi-final, and winning that, either Real Madrid or Valencia in the final.
May 6: Copa del Rey Final
If they make it to the final, Barça will be one game away from extending their record of 21 victories in the knock-out tournament.
June 4: La Liga ends
Because of the World Cup break, the league will end slightly later than usual. Hopefully with FC Barcelona at the top of the table!
June 10: Champions League Final
Istanbul is the place the biggest clubs in Europe will all be hoping to be this time next year. Barça have won the tournament five times. A sixth would be very nice indeed!