Raphinha Named New Barcelona Captain, De Jong Overlooked
The Brazilian will wear the captain's armband in the 2026/27 season, despite expectations that Frenkie de Jong would take over after the departures of Ter Stegen and Araújo.
The Brazilian will wear the captain's armband in the 2026/27 season, despite expectations that Frenkie de Jong would take over after the departures of Ter Stegen and Araújo.
Barcelona has made an unexpected turn in choosing its new captain. According to information reported by ESPN Brazil, as cited by Tportal, Raphinha is set to be the first captain of the Catalan club for the 2026/27 season. This decision bypasses Frenkie de Jong, who was considered the leading candidate after Marc-André ter Stegen and Ronald Araújo left the club.
Last season's first captain, Ter Stegen, is now on loan at Ajax, while Araújo, who was high in the captaincy hierarchy, has been loaned to Liverpool. All signs pointed to De Jong, the Dutch midfielder who was already the third captain last season. However, Barcelona, as reported by ESPN Brazil, has decided otherwise.
Raphinha has been part of the captain's group before, but now he is set to top the hierarchy. His influence in the dressing room has grown significantly in recent years, and coach Hansi Flick had already recognized his leadership qualities. The Brazilian has earned great respect from his teammates, and his rise has been largely shaped by his character, commitment to the team, and his impact on the pitch.
His journey at Barcelona has not always been smooth. Upon arriving from Leeds United, he had to fight for his place and status as a key player. Year after year, his importance grew, and the Brazilian has become one of the most influential players at the Catalan club. His contribution now goes beyond just goals and assists, encompassing his tenacity, competitive spirit, and the responsibility he takes in crucial moments.
The biggest surprise in this decision is certainly Frenkie de Jong. After the departures of Ter Stegen and Araújo, the Dutchman seemed the obvious choice for the captain's armband, but according to the new hierarchy, he is set to be the second captain. In the captain's order, they are followed by Pedri and Eric Garcia.
Catalan newspaper Sport attributes this decision to Raphinha's progress at Barcelona. If this information is confirmed, Raphinha will receive further proof of his remarkable rise, from a player whose future was once in doubt to the person who is set to hold the most important armband in the dressing room of one of the world's biggest clubs.
