FC Barcelona continues with its planning for next season's squad. This week, Deco headed to Ibiza, accompanied by Bojan and Alejandro Echevarría, to meet personally with Hansi Flick, who is currently on vacation. On the coach's desk, they laid out the current state of the market, emphasizing the signing of Nico Williams. Flick, delighted, was clear with the sporting director, firmly and decisively vetoing one departure: Raphinha's.
Raphinha: Untouchable for Hansi Flick
In recent hours, Gerard Romero, journalist from Jijantes, has revealed that Hansi Flick has been blunt regarding Raphinha's future. He considers him a key piece and, in this meeting, he made it clear personally to the entire sporting leadership that he can't leave. He intends to reposition him in the central area whenever Williams plays, considering his qualities irreplaceable.
Deco couldn't have replied more positively, being on the same page as Flick. Raphinha is a captain both on and off the field. He's the first to press and demands more from his teammates. He's a talent who is in the running for the Ballon d'Or and, at least this summer, is considered irreplaceable. Recently, he renewed his contract until June 30, 2028 and there is no intention to part ways with him.
A case hanging in the air
In this same meeting, they also discussed the case of another first-team footballer: Fermín López. Hansi Flick doesn't want to lose him and the homegrown player has no intention of leaving. However, Romero has also announced that there are significant offers for him and, right now, his future could be in doubt.
Just as Flick has been blunt with Raphinha, he hasn't been as much with the homegrown player. He's an important player for him, but not everyone can be non-transferable. In any case, one thing is very clear: Fermín López will only leave if he personally requests it and the offer he wants to accept is also good for FC Barcelona.
Taking into account how things stand now, it is considered at Barça that a famous big sale might not be necessary to register the new signings. The situation is positive, although everything is pending on how the financial year closes next June 30. One thing is clear: Nico Williams will be a culer and from there, many things could happen...