APOEL Nicosia signs Czech midfielder Antonin Barak
On July 22, 2026, the Cypriot football club APOEL Nicosia officially announced the acquisition of 31-year-old Czech international midfielder Antonin Barak. The announcement was made via a video on the club's official channels, confirming his departure from the Italian club Fiorentina. Barak, who stands 1.90 meters tall, has accumulated extensive professional experience in Serie A, including stints with Udinese, Lecce, Hellas Verona, and Fiorentina, along with loans at Kasimpasa and Sampdoria. He has also recorded 44 appearances for the Czech national team throughout his career. While some earlier reports noted that the player requested time to evaluate offers, the latest club communication indicates that the deal is now finalized. This signing is part of APOEL's strategic plan to strengthen its creative midfield, as requested by the club's management team, including Zisis Vryzas and coach Nikos Papadopoulos. The player's market value was previously estimated at approximately 800,000 euros, though his career peaks saw him valued significantly higher during his time in Italy.