The positional dilemma Hansi Flick faces with his Barcelona captain | OneFootball

As the 2025/26 season approaches, all eyes are on Hansi Flick and how he plans to utilise his squad at Barcelona, and one player at the centre of tactical speculation is Raphinha.

The Brazilian international, coming off a strong campaign, remains a vital piece in the Catalan side’s attacking setup. However, his position on the pitch may be about to change.

Earlier this summer, much of the discussion around Raphinha’s future role was linked to Barcelona’s push for Nico Williams.

The two players naturally occupy the left wing, raising questions about how both could be integrated.

The solution discussed involved Nico and Lamine Yamal on the flanks, with Raphinha moving inside, operating closer to the midfield, a position he occasionally occupied last season.

Now what?

Now that the Nico deal has collapsed and Marcus Rashford is set to play more of a supporting role, Flick appears to be shifting focus back to Raphinha’s potential as a central figure.

Where will Raphinha play next season? (Photo by Paul Miller/Getty Images)

It is to be noted that even during the pre-season matches on the Asian Tour, despite starting on the wing, the Brazilian drifted centrally more frequently than in previous matches.

His movements during the friendlies against Vissel Kobe and FC Seoul gave a clear indication of the tactical blueprint Flick might follow this season.

Raphinha’s ability to move into central areas not only adds unpredictability to Barcelona’s attack but also allows Flick to explore combinations involving Rashford, Yamal, and others.

No more central role?

The Brazilian still remains the preferred starter on the left, but his flexibility makes him a valuable asset in adapting to various in-game situations.

However, this shift raises concerns about congestion in the midfield.

If Raphinha consistently drops deeper or plays centrally, players like Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez, both of whom had standout performances last season, could see reduced minutes. That is the tactical dilemma Flick will have to manage carefully.

In a season where squad depth and positional rotation will be key, Raphinha’s evolving role might just be the strategic edge Barcelona needs, but it will come down to balance, timing, and ensuring that all key players continue to feel valued on the pitch.