Barcelona will begin the season in black and purple as the new Mamba kit makes its league debut
The identity of Barcelona’s starting centre-forward may remain a secret until the last possible moment, but at least the club already know what the team will be wearing. Hansi Flick’s side will use the new Nike and Kobe Bryant away kit in an official match for the first time when they face Elche on Sunday.
Barcelona’s second shirt for the 2026/27 season is predominantly black, fading into purple towards the bottom. The colours reference the “Black Mamba” identity associated with the legendary Los Angeles Lakers player. Gold details, an iridescent club crest and the Kobe logo complete the design.
The fabric also includes a subtle snakeskin-inspired pattern. Inside the collar is one of Bryant’s messages: “Leave the game better than you found it.” Barcelona say the design represents determination, ambition and the demand to keep improving.
This is the second season of the club’s collaboration with the Kobe brand. Last year’s gold kit quickly became one of Barcelona’s most recognisable alternative shirts. Gold has now been reduced to the detailing, while black and purple take over the main design.
The shirt was officially presented in July, but the match against Elche will mark its league debut. Curiously, Barcelona have not worn their traditional blue and red colours during a league visit to the Estadio Martínez Valero since the 2021/22 season.
They won there 3–1 last season while using their orange third kit. In 2022/23, Barcelona recorded a 4–0 victory in a yellow shirt featuring four red stripes inspired by the Catalan flag. Trips to Elche are gradually becoming an unofficial exhibition of the club’s alternative wardrobe.
Sunday’s game could also produce several player debuts. João Cancelo has been registered and, according to Flick, is ready to play. Karim Adeyemi and Anthony Gordon could also make their first league appearances for the club. Rodri will remain in Barcelona and is expected to join full team training on Monday.
The starting line-up remains unknown, but the shirt has already secured its place from the first minute. At the current Barcelona, that is a reasonably comfortable position to be in.
Elche host Barcelona at the Estadio Martínez Valero on Sunday, 23 August, with kick-off scheduled for 9:30pm CEST. Movistar LaLiga will broadcast the match in Spain, while international availability depends on the country.
