Hansi Flick Rejects Signing a Star Player to Preserve Raphinha’s Role at Barcelona
In a surprising turn of events, Barcelona has made a firm decision regarding a player who was heavily rumored to strengthen the club’s attack next season. Despite the player’s notable talent, speed, and game-changing ability, both the club’s management and new head coach Hansi Flick have firmly decided against signing him, putting an end to any chances of his move to Camp Nou.
According to Spanish newspaper El Nacional, Barcelona has backed away from pursuing Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams. Several factors contributed to this decision, making the deal unfavorable within the club.
One major reason is Nico Williams’ troubling injury history. He suffered seven separate injuries last season, forcing him to miss many matches. These repeated setbacks have negatively affected his performance and raised concerns about his long-term fitness.
Another important reason relates to last summer, when Nico turned down Barcelona’s offer at the last minute, despite having reached a preliminary agreement. This last-minute rejection still lingers with President Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, making them reluctant to reopen talks.
Furthermore, coach Hansi Flick is not particularly interested in signing Williams. He prefers other players who fit his tactical system better, such as Rafael Leão or Luis Díaz, even though their transfers would be far more expensive.
An additional internal factor is Flick’s concern about maintaining harmony in the squad—especially on the right wing, where Brazilian star Raphinha currently plays. Although Raphinha showed signs of fatigue at the end of the season, he had an impressive campaign overall and was even nominated for the Ballon d’Or. This is especially notable given that his future at the club was uncertain just a year ago.
Raphinha himself is reportedly opposed to signing Nico Williams. He knows that Williams wouldn’t accept a bench role and would push for a starting spot, which could lead to unhealthy competition within the team. Given these circumstances, Flick has asked the club’s board to cancel any plans to sign Nico and reaffirmed his confidence in Raphinha, who has become a key figure in Barcelona’s new project.
