With the 2025/26 La Liga season fast approaching, all eyes are on Hansi Flick and how he plans to shape Barcelona’s attack. One name that’s been circulating in tactical conversations is Raphinha — and not just for his performances out wide.
The Brazilian forward had a strong campaign last season and remains a key figure in the squad. But under Flick’s guidance, his position may not be what fans are used to. With Barcelona’s summer transfer plans changing, Raphinha could be shifting from the wing to a more central attacking role.
Earlier this summer, Barcelona were heavily linked with Nico Williams, a natural left-winger. The idea of fitting Nico and Lamine Yamal into the same lineup raised questions about Raphinha’s role. One potential solution was to move Raphinha into a central playmaker position — a role he’s briefly taken on in previous matches.
However, since the Nico Williams deal collapsed and Marcus Rashford is now expected to play more of a backup role, Flick is reportedly reconsidering his original strategy. That’s opened the door for Raphinha to regain his place on the wing — but with a twist.
During Barcelona’s Asian pre-season tour, Raphinha started on the wing but was often seen drifting into central areas. In matches against Vissel Kobe and FC Seoul, the Brazilian’s off-the-ball movements suggested that Flick is testing out a more flexible attacking system.
This versatility adds unpredictability to Barcelona’s offensive play, giving Flick options to experiment with different combinations — involving Raphinha, Rashford, Yamal, and others. But it also introduces a new challenge: midfield congestion.
If Raphinha consistently operates closer to the middle, it could impact the playing time of Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez, both of whom impressed last season. Managing minutes and expectations will be a tricky task for Flick, especially in a season that demands smart rotation and squad depth.
Despite the uncertainty, Raphinha’s adaptability is turning into a real asset. Whether starting on the left or shifting into midfield, he provides Flick with flexibility and creativity in tight spaces. With La Liga and Champions League ambitions on the line, every tactical decision will count.
Flick’s challenge is clear: build a fluid attack while keeping key players happy and effective. And in that setup, Raphinha may no longer just be a winger — he could become Barcelona’s tactical wildcard.
