Barcelona travels to Italy for the triangular and shows new momentum
FC Barcelona departs this Monday for Italy to play a triangular against Udinese and Nottingham Forest, a fixture that will serve as a test before the season starts. In the official video, Fermín and Raphinha appear as the protagonists, while Marc Casadó and Roony Bardghji do not join the first team, raising questions about their future before the transfer window closes. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 1st in La Liga, 79 pts, 26W-1D-4L from 31 games, recent form WWWWW.
What has the official video revealed?
The clip shared on the club's social channels shows players training on an Italian pitch, emphasizing speed and possession. Fermín stands out for his ability to break lines, while Raphinha once again demonstrates his power on the right wing. The absence of Marc Casadó and Roony Bardghji suggests they may be on the exit list or simply recovering from minor injuries. The manager has stressed the importance of keeping the rhythm before the first league match.
Why is this triangular important?
The encounter acts as a barometer for the squad, arriving as the undisputed leader of La Liga. With Frenkie de Jong still sidelined, the coach seeks midfield alternatives. Moreover, the transfer window closes soon, and player performances in Italy could influence last‑minute decisions. The triangular also allows measuring the adaptation of recent signings against different styles, such as Udinese's physical play and Nottingham Forest's quick transitions.
What’s next for Barcelona?
After the triangular, the club returns to Barcelona to fine‑tune the final details before the official debut. The next fixture will be against Levante at home on 2027-02-21, a match that will confirm the leadership position. Meanwhile, the board closely monitors any last‑minute market moves, aiming to strengthen the squad without compromising the stability of the team that already tops the table.
