Rafinha became the first Brazilian captain of Barcelona

Brazilian winger Rafinha has been officially appointed as the main captain of Barcelona for the 2026-2027 season. He made history as the first Brazilian to earn the prestigious role at the Catalan club, despite a rich history of appearances for the team by compatriots such as Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Romario, Rivaldo and Neymar. The team's revamped leadership group also includes Pedri (vice-captain), Eric Garcia, Frankie de Jong and Lamin Yamal. Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick personally selected Rafinha and Pedri for the leading roles, citing their consistent starting place and great influence on the team, while the nominations of Garcia, De Jong and Yamal were determined by player votes. Changes in the composition of the captains were forced: the previous permanent captain Marc-Andre ter Stegen unexpectedly went on loan to the Dutch Ajax, and Ronald Araujo went on a one-year loan to the English Liverpool. Since his €55 million move to Barcelona from Leeds United in 2022, Rafinha has become one of the team's key players. He has 80 goals in 180 matches, three La Liga titles, three Super Cups and one Copa del Rey. After the departure of Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, the Brazilian, who previously played mainly on the wings, has successfully adapted to the role of a central striker. In the first three rounds of the current championship, he has already scored five goals. According to Flick, Rafinha is currently the best option at the cutting edge of attack due to his intensity, ability to press and speed. Rafinha will lead the team with the captain's armband for next Sunday's match against Valencia at the Mestalla. In this game, the Catalans will try to get a fourth consecutive victory at the start of La Liga and take advantage of the misfire of Real Madrid, who lost to Betis on Friday. Team newcomer Gabriel Jesus is ready to apply for the match. Lamin Yamal's participation remains questionable due to a recent micro-injury, but the winger has traveled with the squad to Valencia and a final decision on his inclusion will be made closer to the kick-off.