As Hansi Flick reshuffles his leadership group, Barça secures a new defensive gem in Patricio Pacífico and sets sights on a marquee “Number 9” for next season.
A new era of leadership has begun at the Spotify Camp Nou. Following the surprising departure of Marc-André ter Stegen who has joined Girona on a loan deal Ronald Araújo has officially been appointed as Barcelona’s first captain.
According to Santi Ovalle of Cadena SER, the Uruguayan defender will lead the squad, followed by Frenkie de Jong as second captain and Raphinha as third. In the absence of the primary trio, Eric García and Ferran Torres are next in the hierarchy. For Araújo, this appointment marks a triumphant return to form and mental resilience as he fully reintegrates into Hansi Flick’s dynamic system.
New Talent Arrives: Who is Patricio Pacífico?
While the captaincy was being settled, Barcelona’s board remained active in the market. Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the signing of 19-year-old defensive prodigy Patricio Pacífico.
- The Deal: Barcelona will pay €1.8 million plus performance-based bonuses.
- The Profile: Standing at 1.87m, Pacífico is a versatile left-footed defender who can play both as a center-back and a left-back.
Immediate Future: The youngster will initially join Barça Atletic (B Team) to adapt to the club’s philosophy before moving up to the senior squad.
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The Search for a Elite “Number 9”
President Joan Laporta and Sporting Director Deco are already planning for the 2026/27 campaign. With Robert Lewandowski’s future always a topic of discussion, the club is scouting three primary targets to lead the line:
- Lautaro Martínez: The Inter Milan star remains the “dream” signing.
- Dušan Vlahović: Viewed as a high-potential physical presence.
- Serhou Guirassy: A more affordable, clinical option.
Meanwhile, hopes of signing Harry Kane or Julián Álvarez have faded. Kane is reportedly nearing a deal with a different project, while Álvarez is heavily linked with a move to PSG, leaving Barcelona to focus on more financially viable elite alternatives.
Gabriel Lucio is a football analyst covering La Liga, focusing on match analysis, tactical trends, and the race for domestic and European positions.
