Barcelona could be preparing for a major change in their leadership structure ahead of the 2026/27 season, with Raphinha reportedly in line to become the club’s main captain.
The news was reported by ESPN Brasil journalist Bruno Andrade, who claims that Barcelona are preparing to appoint the Brazilian winger as their first-choice captain. The decision has yet to be officially confirmed by the club, but if it happens, Raphinha would make history.
He would become the first Brazilian player to serve as Barcelona’s main captain.
The potential appointment comes at a time when Barcelona are reshaping their leadership group. Several players who previously occupied senior positions are no longer in the same role, creating an opportunity for Raphinha to take on greater responsibility both on and off the pitch.
Raphinha Could Receive the Barcelona Armband
According to Bruno Andrade, Barcelona are preparing Raphinha to take the captaincy for the 2026/27 campaign.
An official announcement is still required, but the idea reflects how much the winger’s status has grown at Camp Nou.
Raphinha has developed from an attacking player into one of Barcelona’s most influential figures. Since Hansi Flick took charge, the 29-year-old has become increasingly important to the team’s tactical structure.
His work rate and intensity have made him a valuable player in Flick’s system. He is also known for his willingness to press, track back and fight for possession.
Those characteristics can be particularly important for a captain.
A captain does not always have to be the most technically gifted player. Leadership can also come from attitude, consistency and the ability to set the standard for teammates.
Raphinha appears to offer all three.
Barcelona’s Captaincy Hierarchy Is Changing
The potential appointment is closely connected to significant changes within Barcelona’s leadership group.
Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Ronald Araujo had previously occupied prominent positions in the captaincy hierarchy. However, both players are now away from the first-team picture after loan spells at Ajax and Liverpool respectively.
Frenkie de Jong and Pedri have also been part of Barcelona’s leadership group.
However, De Jong’s situation has become complicated by a significant injury concern that could keep him out for an extended period.
That leaves Barcelona needing another senior figure capable of taking responsibility.
Raphinha has consequently emerged as one of the strongest candidates.
The club is still expected to finalise the complete captaincy group for the upcoming season. Eric Garcia is also among the players who could receive a more prominent leadership role.
The new structure could therefore look very different from previous seasons.
Why Raphinha Fits the Leadership Role
Raphinha’s potential appointment is not simply about seniority.
His performances have helped establish him as one of Barcelona’s most important players. His attitude on the pitch has also earned respect from teammates and coaching staff.
Since Flick arrived, Raphinha has often been one of the players setting the intensity for the team.
Several qualities make him a logical captaincy candidate:
- Strong work ethic: Raphinha regularly contributes defensively as well as offensively.
- High intensity: His pressing and movement fit Flick’s tactical demands.
- Experience: At 29, he brings maturity to a relatively young squad.
- Consistency: He has become an important part of Barcelona’s attacking structure.
- Character: His emotional and competitive style can provide leadership during difficult moments.
For Barcelona, those qualities could be just as important as his numbers.
The captain will be expected to communicate with teammates, support younger players and represent the club during difficult periods.
Raphinha appears increasingly prepared for that responsibility.
His Best Season Put Him on the Global Stage
The 2024/25 campaign was particularly important for Raphinha.
The Brazilian enjoyed one of his strongest seasons since joining Barcelona and played a major role in the club’s pursuit of silverware.
His performances were so impressive that he entered the conversation surrounding the Ballon d’Or.
That recognition demonstrated how dramatically his status had changed.
Raphinha was no longer viewed simply as another attacking option. He had become a central figure in Barcelona’s plans and one of the players capable of deciding important matches.
His ability to combine goals, assists, pressing and creativity made him one of the standout performers in the squad.
That rise could now lead to another milestone: becoming Barcelona’s main captain.
Fitness Is the Biggest Challenge
There is, however, one major issue Raphinha must overcome.
Hamstring problems affected his consistency during the following season. Recurring injuries also disrupted his involvement with the Brazil national team, including his preparations for the World Cup.
That makes physical condition one of the biggest priorities ahead of the new campaign.
Barcelona will need Raphinha to remain available if he is going to take on the additional responsibility of captaincy.
The winger is therefore working with the coaching and fitness staff to ensure he can return to his best physical level.
The objective is straightforward: stay healthy, regain his rhythm and maintain the performances that made him one of Barcelona’s most important players.
A New Role Could Keep Raphinha at Barcelona
Raphinha was previously linked with a possible move to Saudi Arabia.
However, the possibility of becoming Barcelona’s main captain could provide another reason for him to remain at Camp Nou.
The captaincy would represent more than just wearing an armband. It would be a sign that the club considers him one of the central figures of its project.
For a player who has worked hard to establish himself at Barcelona, that recognition could be extremely significant.
It could also motivate Raphinha to maintain his highest standards over the long term.
A Historic Moment Could Be Coming
If Barcelona officially confirm the decision, Raphinha would enter the club’s history as the first Brazilian player to serve as its main captain.
That would be a remarkable achievement for a player whose journey at Camp Nou has not always been straightforward.
Now, at 29, he could be entering a completely different phase of his Barcelona career.
The challenge will be to stay fit, maintain his performances and lead a squad that has major ambitions in Spain and Europe.
For Raphinha, the message is clear: Barcelona may no longer see him only as a winger. They could be preparing him to become one of the faces of the club.
If the appointment becomes official, the 2026/27 season could mark the beginning of a new chapter for both Raphinha and Barcelona.
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