Barcelona have officially settled their leadership structure for the 2026/27 season, and the biggest surprise is the inclusion of Lamine Yamal among the club’s five captains.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Hansi Flick has played a major role in shaping the new hierarchy following the departures of Marc-André ter Stegen and Ronald Araújo. Raphinha has been appointed first captain, with Pedri taking the second position.
The complete captaincy order is:
- Raphinha
- Pedri
- Eric Garcia
- Frenkie de Jong
- Lamine Yamal
Raphinha and Pedri were selected directly by Flick, while Eric Garcia, Frenkie de Jong and Yamal were chosen through a vote among the Barcelona squad once the summer transfer window had closed.
The inclusion of Yamal is easily the most eye-catching development.
At only 19 years old, the Barcelona forward has already become one of the most influential players in the squad. His promotion into the leadership group shows that his importance inside the dressing room is growing alongside his influence on the pitch.
Yamal’s rise is particularly remarkable considering how young he still is. Barcelona are not simply viewing him as the future of the club anymore. He is already being trusted with responsibility alongside experienced figures such as Raphinha, Pedri and De Jong.
The decision also represents a major change from Barcelona’s previous captaincy structure. Ter Stegen and Araújo have departed, leaving significant leadership positions vacant and forcing the club to rebuild its hierarchy. De Jong, who previously held a much higher position, now moves down to fourth captain.
Raphinha’s promotion to first captain is another major statement.
Flick had already identified the Brazilian as his preferred first captain before the final squad vote, praising his leadership qualities and influence within the team. Raphinha subsequently underlined that status with an impressive start to the campaign, including a standout performance in the Joan Gamper Trophy.
Pedri remains second in command, while Eric Garcia has also earned significant trust from both the manager and his teammates.
But all eyes will undoubtedly be on Yamal.
Being named fifth captain does not mean he will regularly wear the armband ahead of the other four. Instead, it represents recognition that Barcelona believe he possesses the personality, influence and stature to eventually become one of the club’s central leaders.
The message is clear: Barcelona’s future is already being handed responsibility in the present.
Yamal has gone from academy prospect to superstar, and now he has another distinction to add to his rapidly growing list of achievements: Barcelona captain.