FC Barcelona remains fully immersed in planning their squad for next season, and one of the main focuses is on strengthening the attack. With Hansi Flick in charge, the culé coaching staff has conveyed to the sporting management the need to bring in a winger with flair, dribbling skills, and the ability to break the balance. The reason is clear: Raphinha has been the only pure profile in that role besides Lamine Yamal and has finished the season at the limit of his strength.
The Brazilian player, tireless in his commitment, has barely had any real competition throughout the campaign, which has affected both his performance and his physical condition. The idea of signing a player who can alternate starts with him, offer attacking alternatives and add depth to the bench was on the table. But one of the most advanced options for Barça has ended up slipping away, to the surprise of many.
Chooses Manchester City, it's now official
Rayan Cherki, Olympique de Lyon's gem, has officially signed with Manchester City. The English club has completed the transfer for €45 million (45 million euros) and has managed to get ahead of several European giants, including Barça. According to Fabrizio Romano, the young Frenchman has already given his "yes" to Pep Guardiola and will be presented as the new player for the English side in the coming days.
Barça had him on their radar for months: his numbers positioned him as an ideal alternative for the winger profile Flick needs. In addition, he had been chosen as the best dribbler in Ligue 1 and young player of the season in the Europa League. However, the immediacy and financial power of City ended up being decisive.
Raphinha keeps the spot
The most direct consequence of this failed signing is that Raphinha will be able to keep feeling like the undisputed starter on Barça's right wing. With Cherki out of the picture, there's no imminent reinforcement threatening his role within the team. For the Brazilian, who has experienced a demanding year with brilliant stretches, it means temporary relief and an opportunity to establish himself under Hansi Flick's orders.
Nevertheless, the club's intention doesn't change: Deco and Flick are still working in the market to strengthen the attack. FC Barcelona's sporting management is aware that they can't allow a scenario where an injury or a drop in performance leaves the team without alternatives. Barça will now look for other options, probably less high-profile, but functional and adapted to the club's salary cap.