Raphinha Faces Battle for Left Wing Spot

Raphinha's starting position at Barcelona is under threat as new signing Anthony Gordon is set to challenge him for the left wing spot. On June 3, it was announced that Gordon had joined Barcelona in an $81.7 million deal.

Barcelona shocked fans by signing Gordon, which has raised questions about Raphinha's role in the team. Raphinha has been Hansi Flick's first choice on the left wing, but Gordon's arrival could change that.

Raphinha could potentially move to a central position, but that spot is already occupied by Fermin Lopez and Dani Olmo. Raphinha's age, 29, may also be a factor, as he has started to show signs of wear and tear.

Raphinha missed 112 days in the 2025/2026 season, including both quarterfinal legs against Atletico Madrid. This absence was felt by the team, and Gordon's signing may be an attempt to address this issue.

Barcelona is also pursuing a new number 9, with Julian Alvarez as the top target. If Alvarez joins, Gordon may not be used as a central target man, and could instead challenge Raphinha on the left wing.

The battle for the left wing spot will be an interesting one to watch, with Raphinha's experience and skill pitted against Gordon's youth and energy. The outcome will depend on how Hansi Flick chooses to use his players, and how Raphinha responds to the challenge.

Raphinha has been a key player for Barcelona, but he will need to prove himself again if he wants to keep his starting position. The competition for places at Barcelona is fierce, and Raphinha will need to be at his best if he wants to succeed.

The transfer window is still open, and there may be more changes to come at Barcelona. But for now, Raphinha and Gordon are set to battle it out for the left wing spot, and it will be exciting to see how it plays out.