Who will be Barcelona's new captain for 2026-27 season?
(Courtesy : LaLiga Content Hub)
The club have decided to change their captain.
FC Barcelona forward Raphinha has been chosen as the team’s first skipper for the 2026-27 season. Marc-André ter Stegen and Ronald Araujo, the team’s first two leaders during the past season, are out on loan this season.
The German custodian has departed for AFC Ajax on loan. Meanwhile, the Uruguayan defender has signed with Liverpool on a loan contract. It has a €55 million fixed purchase option.
This left the club’s senior leadership position unfilled. While Frenkie de Jong, the third captain last season, would have been a candidate for the position, the report indicates that the Brazilian winger has been voted as the first captain.
Raphinha to serve as the team’s new captain for the 2026-27 season
It’s hardly surprising given how popular and respected Raphinha is among his colleagues and the entire dressing room.
Furthermore, De Jong is now injured. He is anticipated to be out for a few months at least. While he may not have been promoted to first captain, the Dutchman will be second in charge, according to reports.
Meanwhile, Pedri, Barcelona’s fifth skipper during the previous season, moves up the ranks to serve as the third captain for the 2026-27 season.
The Spanish international is one of Hansi Flick’s most essential players. His ascension up the leadership hierarchy is well-deserved.
Raphinha’s possible elevation indicates his status as a crucial player for the Catalans. Aside from his offensive contributions, the Brazilian international has acquired influence in a group that includes veteran players as well as some of Spain’s brightest emerging talents.
The club are now shaping their team for the 2026-27 season, adding players like Rodri and João Cancelo. Thus, the new leadership system would arrive at a crucial moment of transition.
Who will be Barcelona’s next captain?
Raphinha is the club’s captain for the 2026-27 season.
Why is Raphinha the new club captain?
Due to his influence on the group and leadership qualities.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.