Barcelona are preparing to officially announce Brazilian winger Raphinha as the club’s new first captain for the 2026–2027 season following a locker room vote held in the wake of Marc-André ter Stegen and Ronald Araújo’s summer departures.
According to Spanish media reports, an official announcement is imminent after the squad finalized their leadership team. Frenkie de Jong and Pedri will retain their roles among the captains, while Eric García and Gavi have officially joined the leadership group.
Earlier reports had suggested that Eric García might inherit the armband due to his vocal leadership and long-standing presence at the club. However, Raphinha surged to the top of the hierarchy thanks to his immense influence both on and off the pitch.
The Brazilian international shares a close relationship with manager Hansi Flick, who has shown immense faith in him and granted him tactical freedom in attack. Under Flick, Raphinha produced the finest form of his Barcelona career, transforming his standing at the club after persistent transfer rumors had previously surrounded his future.
During an extraordinary 2024–2025 campaign, Raphinha registered 34 goals and 26 assists in 57 appearances across all competitions to become Barcelona’s focal attacking outlet. Although his output slowed last season due to recurring injury setbacks, his status within the dressing room remained unshakeable.
Despite ongoing transfer speculation linking him with lucrative offers from Saudi Pro League clubs, Raphinha remained fully committed to Barcelona and Flick’s sporting project—a dedication now rewarded by his teammates with the captain’s armband.
