What happens to Raphinha & Lewy if Barca sign Williams?

 

Barcelona are on the verge of completing the high-profile signing of Nico Williams from Athletic Club. The 22-year-old Spanish winger is expected to sign a six-year deal after the Catalans activate his €58 million release clause. He has reportedly chosen Barça over Bayern Munich and Arsenal and is even willing to take a wage cut to facilitate the move. Known for his pace, creativity, and chemistry with Lamine Yamal on the left flank for Spain, Williams is expected to walk straight into the starting XI under new manager Hansi Flick.

His arrival, however, creates major tactical questions. Raphinha who played a vital role in Barca’s 2024–25 campaign with 56 goal contributions currently occupies the left-wing spot. Rather than benching him, Flick is likely to reposition Raphinha into a central playmaking role (No.10), where he thrived last season in limited appearances. This setup would allow the trio of Williams, Raphinha, and Yamal to play together without disrupting team chemistry.

On the other hand, Dani Olmo and Fermin Lopez, who previously rotated in the No.10 role, could lose their minutes. Flick may tweak the midfield further, but his preferred 4-2-3-1 formation leaves little room for both. The duo may be pushed to the fringes unless new systems are adopted.

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While the attack looks set to get even stronger, big questions loom over Robert Lewandowski’s role. Despite being the club’s top scorer with 41 goals last season, the 36-year-old striker might see reduced minutes. With Deco planning for life after Lewy, Flick may explore a PSG-style false-nine system, potentially featuring Raphinha in a central striker role, supported by Yamal and Williams on the wings. This could add flexibility and more pressing intensity upfront.

Lewandowski might transition into an impact substitute role, especially with the club’s focus on youth and dynamic pressing. It’s a risky call, considering the Pole’s continued effectiveness, but one that may offer long-term gains as Barça look to refresh their identity.

However, while Williams' signing adds flair, fans and critics alike argue that defensive reinforcements should be the priority. Barcelona conceded several goals from avoidable situations last season. The centre-back duo of Pau Cubarsí and Inigo Martinez lacks depth. Ronald Araujo’s inconsistent form and Andreas Christensen’s injury record leave the backline vulnerable. Full-back depth is also lacking, with no high-quality backup for Jules Koundé or Alejandro Balde.

If Barcelona truly want to challenge for European dominance, they’ll need to strike the right balance between flair and solidity. While the Williams-Yamal partnership promises attacking fireworks, defense remains the Achilles heel. For now, it seems Flick is doubling down on outscoring opponents but history suggests that’s rarely a sustainable path to trophies.

Williams will bring pace, width, and synergy with Yamal, no doubt. But unless Barcelona plug the gaps at the back, even this attacking masterclass may fall short in the Champions League. A thrilling puzzle for Flick – but one that needs solving before the season kicks off.