The highly likely signing of Nico Williams by Barça has been met with enthusiasm by the sports management and the culé environment. He has given the club his "yes" after a key meeting with Deco in Ibiza and has accepted a significant pay cut in order to fulfill his dream of wearing the blaugrana jersey. Thus, everything seems to indicate that he will sign until 2030 and he will be one of the offensive pillars of Hansi Flick's sports project.
This step forward by the club in the market generates excitement, but also some internal noise. Nico's arrival coincides with a moment of consolidation for several Barça footballers, including Raphinha, who has been one of the most consistent performers last season. Now, the Brazilian has raised the alarm.
Raphinha wants clarity
The imminent arrival of Nico Williams has led Raphinha to request a direct meeting with Hansi Flick to clarify his role in the new system. The Brazilian winger fears losing prominence to a player with similar characteristics. Therefore, it is not just a tactical issue: Raphinha wants to know if he is still important in the project or if he should start considering other options.
Although the face-to-face meeting has not yet taken place due to both being on vacation, there was a first phone conversation. The German coach sent him a clear message: he still counts on him. Flick understands the footballer's concern, but he wants to calm things down and avoid speculation.
Flick is clear: "he's key"
Hansi Flick's plan is ambitious: his idea is to have a versatile, fast attack with the ability to break through on both wings. In that system, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams would occupy the flanks, but Raphinha would also have a leading role. The Brazilian would alternate positions, coming off the bench or even starting in key matches.
In addition, the coach has emphasized that there will be three high-level competitions—La Liga, Copa, and Champions—and that rotation will be essential. He doesn't want to lose a committed and competitive player like Raphinha. That's why he has insisted that his role will not decrease, but will adapt to a more complete system, where everyone contributes to the maximum.