Barcelona’s game against Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli postponed

Spanish champions FC Barcelona’s game against Saudi Arabian club side Al Ahli has been postponed.

The club posted on its official website that the decision to reschedule the game, which was supposed to happen on May 24, was taken by club sponsor Qatar Airways.

The full statement is as follows:

“Qatar Airways, the host and sponsor of the friendly match between FC Barcelona and Al-Ahli Saudi FC, which was scheduled to be played on May 24 in Doha, has opted to postpone the game.

That same week, the region is also hosting the prestigious Emir Cup Final, as well as games being played in the AFC League. The coincidence of the match with these major sporting events means that the game will now be postponed to a later date (to be announced shortly) in order to encourage the best possible attendance.”

However, Spanish daily Sport reported that the decision to reschedule was mutual, with a dressing-room source telling the newspaper that several players were reluctant to take part given their other commitments.

El Mundo Deportivo, meanwhile, said the unavailability of several players due to the Copa America — including Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez — had diminished the friendly’s appeal.

Barca, who play Sevilla in the Copa del Rey final on May 22, are contractually obliged to play one friendly a year under the terms of the club's sponsorship deal with Qatar Sports Investments.

Since the deal was made, Barcelona have played just one match in Paris and have participated in a clinic in Palestine, according to Sport.

Courtesy: espnfc.com