Barcelona withdraw from Benghazi friendly – Atlético Madrid step in

Barcelona have announced their withdrawal from the friendly match that was scheduled to take place next week in Benghazi, citing security concerns. The news was reported by the Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo and monitored by Libyan Express.

In light of the Catalan club’s decision not to travel to Libya, it has been confirmed that Atlético Madrid will replace them and face Inter Milan on Friday, 10 October, at Benghazi International Stadium, which has a capacity of around 40,000 spectators.

According to the Spanish report, Barcelona had already received a payment of five million euros for their participation in the “Reconstruction Cup” – a sum comparable to their regular summer tour revenues. However, the club have refunded the entire amount to the event organisers following their decision to withdraw.

Club sources stressed to Mundo Deportivo that the withdrawal was based exclusively on security grounds due to the lack of adequate guarantees. They also dismissed speculation linking the decision to a request by head coach Hansi Flick to avoid further injuries within the squad.