Ed Sheeran chosen as next Barça jersey artist against Real Madrid

The English singer-songwriter, Ed Sheeran, has been the chosen artist to feature on the FC Barcelona jersey against Real Madrid on El Clásico, held on October 26, as the club announced on Tuesday.

The singer's newest album logo, Play, will replace Spotify's branding during the male team's game in Madrid and the female team's match against Granada CF on October 19.

Ed Sheeran has over 92 million active listeners on Spotify and has 14 songs on the Billion Club, a group of selected hits with over a billion plays on the streaming platform.

Play is his eighth album, composed of the joy of living and inspired by the sounds and stories Sheeran has made memories of during his career.

The Brit follows the steps of previous artists such as Travis Scott, Coldplay, Karol G, The Rolling Stones, Rosalía, and Drake.

"Seeing my new album, Play, on Barça's jersey is one of those unbelievable moments," Ed Sheeran said in a written statement shared by the club.

"I've loved football all my life, so bringing my music to a stage as iconic as this and sharing it with fans from all around the world is something very special," he added.

Meanwhile, Robert Lewandowski, FC Barcelona player, explained that Ed Sheeran's songs have been played "in the changing room for a very long time." Featuring the album's logo on the front of the jersey is "something very special, as music and football unite spectators in a powerful way."

Ed Sheeran will also craft a Spotify matchday playlist for fans and players, as well as street wear inspired on Play's imaginary visuals: two t-shirts, one sweatshirt, and a scarf.

Limited edition jerseys will go on pre-sale from Tuesday, 14, at 10:00 pm to Wednesday, 15, at 10:00 am.

Aside from the 1899 jerseys available, there will be 22 more with players' signatures, and 11 more with Ed Sheeran's signature.