Time, where to watch, ticket renewals, prices, stats, predictions as Barca visit Tom Brady’s club to prepare for the 2026/27 season
Barcelona’s visit to Birmingham City on Friday is “more than a friendly”, believes Chris Davies as the head coach prepares the second team for the prestigious meeting with five European champions.
Last in the Premier League in 2010/11, the Blues, part of NFL legend Tom Brady, appeared alone in the modern European competition by winning the EFL Cup that season, although they were eliminated from the Europa League in the group stage.
“It’s a special game because of the size of the club we’re playing against and the fact that we got them at our home ground,” said Davies on the City website.
“It’s a game that people will remember for a long time, bringing a big team like Barcelona to our stadium is amazing.
“On the football side, it’s a chance to finally get that measuring stick against the best.”
Barca chose to camp in England because they want to avoid a long trip after the 2026 World Cup.
Midfielder Marc Bernal says that the 17 young players who are part of the training team since there are no Barcelona stars playing in the World Cup “say a lot” about the team’s famous school, La Masia.
“I’m very happy that they’re here having fun,” the 19-year-old told AS, expressing his delight at being part of the squad after his pre-season games were disrupted by injury.
“It’s a great example of what Barca is all about. Their quality is amazing. Playing for the reserve team and youth teams is different than playing for the first team, but hopefully they will get opportunities.”
Birmingham City v Barcelona team news
Left-back Lee Buchanan (knee) and right-back Ethan Laird (hamstring) are long-term absentees for City.
Midfielder Marc Leonard underwent surgery in May after rupturing his Achilles tendon while on loan at Scottish club Hearts.
Davies has been busy this week, signing Danish-born USA defender Kristoffer Lund from Palermo following the departure of Kai Wagner and adding Argentine striker Luis Vazquez from Anderlecht.
Midfielder Jhon Solis joined permanently from Girona for £6 million in June, a month before defender Dael Fry arrived from Middlesbrough.
Goalkeeper James Beadle has rejoined Brighton & Hove Albion on loan this campaign.
Frenkie de Jong traveled with Barcelona and worked in the gym as the midfielder continues his recovery from a serious knee injury.
Left-back Alejandro Balde had a “short run” on the pitch with a fit following back problems, according to AS.
Raphinha is not expected to appear but has taken part in one-on-one sessions. The midfielder struggled last season and missed Brazil’s two World Cup matches due to a general issue.
Adeyemi – who signed for £18.8m from Borussia Dortmund last week – is part of the camp, as is Marc-Andre ter Stegen, who is expected to complete his loan move to Ajax soon.
Players who have not entered the group after the World Cup include Spanish stars and world champions Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres, Joan Garcia, Eric Garcia, Pau Cubarsi, Gavi, Dani Olmo and Pedri.
