Barça shirts to feature message of thanks ‘Gràcies’
The word ‘Gràcies’ ('Thanks' in Catalan) will be on FC Barcelona's shirts for their return to Champions League action. During the match against Napoli, the word will be displayed just above the club badge, as part of an initiative led by UEFA and backed by all teams participating in the competition.
The message is one of recognition of the hard work carried out by those on the frontline during the Covid-19 pandemic. "We should not forget the people who have given us the opportunity to play again," declared the UEFA president on Thursday.
Players also give thanks
A representative from each team involved in the Champions League and Europa League has also given thanks in video form. In Barça's case, it is Sergio Busquets who speaks for the squad.
👕 When UEFA competitions return this week, the shirt of every player will carry two important words - 'Thank You'.
— UEFA (@UEFA) August 3, 2020
This #ThankYou is a symbol of European football’s recognition of key workers on the front lines of the #COVID19 pandemic. pic.twitter.com/pMXdCXn4DY
The European competition was suspended during the coronavirus crisis, and returns after 165 days away. The first leg of Barça's tie against Napoli ended 1-1 at San Paolo. Now the Champions League is back, and the club wish to say ‘Gràcies’ to those who have made it possible.