Birmingham City's recent trajectory has caught the eye of many, and those associated with the club will be hoping for a successful 2026/27 Championship season under Chris Davies. Last year, Blues returned to the Championship at the first time of asking after a record-breaking campaign in League One, during which 111 points were amassed in what was also Davies' first term as a full-time manager. As a result, his side were heavily fancied to mount a run towards the play-off places over the course of the 46-game season, but in reality, they weren't really in such conversations for a prolonged period of time. That was despite the fact that Davies, yet again, was backed significantly in the transfer market by American investment group, Knighthead Capital Management, with a raft of high-profile signings made in both windows. After seeing their play-off dream effectively ended by late March, Birmingham were still able to end the season in impressive form, even though some were still underwhelmed by a final 10th-placed finish - which is still the club's highest placement in the division for a decade. The Championship, though, is undergoing some rather major changes both on and off the pitch, with the division's 24 clubs now having to adhere to Squad Cost Rules, as well as an expansion of the play-offs, which will now include the sides who finish between third and eighth. Given their investment from across the Atlantic, eyes will certainly be cast on what unfolds at St. Andrew's, and such a trend will, for once, continue into pre-season. Tom Brady, the NFL legend and Birmingham City's Advisory Board President, has reacted to the news of a high-profile friendly against FC Barcelona, which is set to take place on July 31st. The match will be part of Barcelona's preparations for the 2026/27 season, and will see Hansi Flick's team take on Chris Davies' Blues at St. Andrew's. A strong crowd will no doubt be expected, and could include Tom Brady, who has previously attended high-profile matches involving Birmingham City. The friendly will be a great opportunity for Birmingham City to test themselves against one of the best teams in the world, and will provide a exciting spectacle for the fans. With the new season just around the corner, Birmingham City will be looking to build on last season's success, and the friendly against Barcelona will be an important part of their preparations. The club will be hoping to make a strong start to the season, and will be looking to push for a play-off place in the Championship. The match against Barcelona will be a great chance for the players to gain some valuable experience, and will provide a tough test for Chris Davies' team. Birmingham City's fans will be eagerly anticipating the match, and will be hoping to see their team put in a strong performance against one of the biggest clubs in the world.