As reported just a while ago, FC Barcelona winger Raphinha has been named the first captain of the team for the 2026/27 season.
While official confirmation of the same is awaited, Ballon d’Or has built on that report, revealing the entire five-man captaincy’s group for the Catalan club for the upcoming campaign.
Raphinha on top
Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Ronald Araujo, the first two captains of the team last season, are no longer at Barcelona.
The German shot-stopper has left for Ajax on loan, while the Uruguayan defender has joined Liverpool on a temporary deal with a €55 million permanent purchase option.
This left the top spot in the club’s leadership group vacant. And while Frenkie de Jong, who was the third captain last season, would have been a contender to take the spot, the report states that Raphinha has been elected the first captain.
The new first captain. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)
It does not come as a surprise considering how beloved and respected Raphinha is by his teammates and the entire dressing room.
Moreover, De Jong is also currently injured and is expected to be sidelined for a few more months at least. While he might not have been elevated to the first captain position, the Dutchman will be the second in command as per the report.
Gavi, Eric Garcia join the leadership group
Meanwhile, Pedri, who was the fifth captain for Barcelona last season, climbs up the ladder to become the third captain for the 2026/27 season.
One of the most important players for Hansi Flick, the Spanish international’s rise in the captaincy hierarchy is more than deserved.
Two new additions to Barcelona’s captaincy group. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
For the final two slots, there are two new players who have entered the captaincy hierarchy.
Indeed, La Masia midfielder Gavi, another beloved member of the group, who has become known for leaving everything on the pitch, has been named the fourth captain for Barcelona.
Meanwhile, Eric Garcia will be the fifth captain for the 2026/27 season. A trusted lieutenant of Flick, the versatile defender has previously captained Barça during his academy days before he left for Manchester City.
He has also donned the captaincy armband for the first team on occasions, as has Gavi, with both players now set to be permanent members of the leadership group.