In an interesting observation by our follower Rodrigo, Nike have apparently altered FC Barcelona's brand-new 2023-24 home kit. The prototype can be seen worn by Sergi Roberto in a video he made with the club.
FC Barcelona 2023-24 Home Kit Prototype Shown Off By Sergi Roberto
The Nike FC Barcelona 2023-24 home kit prototype has a Catalan flag panel in the back collar. However, this had been removed from the final kit. Instead, the final design features a small heat-printed Catalan flag label, the same as used for the previous season's kit.
We are pretty sure that Sergi Roberto is wearing an early prototype. Indeed, with the player's deep connection to the club and Catalonia, it appears plausible that the club intentionally presented Sergi Roberto with that kit as a gift.
It would have been nothing uncommon for Nike to uniquely integrate the Catalan flag into the collar of a Barcelona kit. They did so in 2013-14, 2015-16, 2019-20, and 2020-21, for example.
Did Sergi Roberto specifically receive this kit?
FC Barcelona 23-24 Home Kit Released
This decision is sure to spark controversy among fans, many of whom surely would prefer the unique integration of the Catalan flag. The specific reasons behind this change remain undisclosed, leaving supporters curious and disappointed.
Check out all FC Barcelona kits on Football Kit Archive
The prototype Nike Barça 2023-2024 football shirt is not available to purchase, logically.
Would you have preferred the big Catalan back collar? Let us know in the comments below.
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It appears that the Nike Barcelona 23-24 home kit underwent an important change.