Raphinha is set to begin the 2026/27 season with a new responsibility at Barcelona after being named the club's first-choice captain, according to ESPN Brasil journalist Bruno Andrade.
The decision represents a major recognition for the Brazilian winger, who has grown into one of the most influential figures in Barcelona's squad since arriving from Leeds United.
Raphinha's promotion comes during a significant change in Barcelona's leadership structure, with previous captain Marc-André ter Stegen and second captain Ronald Araújo no longer occupying those positions.
Reports indicate that the new captaincy hierarchy will also include established figures such as Frenkie de Jong and Pedri.
Raphinha Gets the Armband After Barcelona's Leadership Change
The captaincy decision arrives after a summer of major changes within Barcelona's leadership group.
Ter Stegen had been one of the club's principal leaders, while Araújo was also part of the established hierarchy. Their departures have opened the door for a new generation of Barcelona captains.
Raphinha has now emerged at the front of that group.
Reports from ESPN Brasil indicate that the 29-year-old has been selected as first captain for the new campaign, with the decision reportedly supported by the dressing room and head coach Hansi Flick.
The official announcement is still being finalised, meaning the safest description at this stage is that Raphinha has been selected or is set to be named first captain rather than treating the appointment as a formal club announcement.
From Transfer Target to Dressing-Room Leader
Raphinha's rise is particularly interesting given how his Barcelona career began.
The Brazilian arrived from Leeds United in 2022 and initially faced significant pressure to justify his transfer fee and his place in a star-studded attack.
Over time, however, he became increasingly important to Barcelona.
His work rate, intensity and willingness to contribute defensively have made him a popular figure within the squad, while his attacking production has turned him into one of Flick's most trusted players.
That combination appears to have helped him develop an influence beyond his performances with the ball.
Now, he is being asked to carry the armband.
Why Barcelona Chose Raphinha
The decision is not simply about seniority.
Raphinha has increasingly established himself as a vocal and demanding presence on the pitch, while his performances have given him credibility within the dressing room.
AS has also highlighted his growing importance under Flick, describing the Brazilian as a trusted figure for the German coach and an important part of Barcelona's dressing-room cohesion.
That relationship could be crucial.
Flick is beginning another season with expectations of competing for the biggest trophies, and having a captain who understands his demands and can communicate them to teammates could prove valuable.
Raphinha therefore represents more than a change of name on the captaincy list.
It signals Barcelona's belief that he can help lead the team through a new phase.
A Historic Moment for the Brazilian
The appointment also carries significance beyond Barcelona.
If confirmed as first captain, Raphinha would become the first Brazilian to occupy Barcelona's primary captaincy position.
That gives the decision an additional historical dimension for the winger and Brazilian football.
It is a remarkable progression for a player whose career has taken him from Brazil to Europe, through Portugal, France and England before eventually establishing himself at one of the world's biggest clubs.
The captaincy is now another milestone.
De Jong and Pedri Remain Important Leaders
Raphinha will not be leading the squad alone.
Frenkie de Jong and Pedri are expected to remain central figures within the captaincy structure, while players such as Gavi and Eric García have also been mentioned as potential members of the leadership group.
That gives Barcelona a mixture of experience and youth.
De Jong offers years of experience at the club, while Pedri has become one of Barcelona's most important midfielders. Gavi, meanwhile, brings the intensity and competitive personality that have become closely associated with his game.
Raphinha's appointment therefore appears to be part of a wider restructuring rather than an isolated decision.
A New Responsibility for One of Barcelona's Biggest Stars
The captaincy will inevitably bring additional expectations.
Raphinha will now be expected not only to perform but also to lead, communicate and set standards when Barcelona encounter difficult moments.
That pressure could be significant.
Barcelona are expected to challenge for major honours again, while Flick will want his side to build on the progress made during the previous campaign.
Raphinha's ability to handle that responsibility could become one of the more interesting storylines of the season.
For now, though, the message from Barcelona is clear.
The Brazilian is no longer simply one of the team's attacking leaders.
He is emerging as the man entrusted with leading the team onto the pitch.
Fan Debate
●⚽ Goal: Does Raphinha deserve to be Barcelona's first captain?
●🔥 Fire: Is Raphinha the right choice ahead of Frenkie de Jong and Pedri?
●😲 Shock: Did you expect a Brazilian to become Barcelona's captain?
●👍 Like: Has Raphinha earned this recognition through his performances?
●💬 Comment: Who should be Barcelona's second captain behind Raphinha?
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