Raphinha faces Barcelona starting-place battle after three attacking deals

Raphinha will begin the new season under significant pressure to retain his place in Barcelona’s starting XI, with the club’s attacking reshuffle creating fresh competition for his position.

The Brazil international was previously regarded as having no serious rival for his role after producing an outstanding campaign two years ago. He scored 34 goals and provided 26 assists during that season, establishing himself as one of Barcelona’s most influential attacking players.

However, Raphinha’s position is now less secure after a campaign affected by injuries and a relative drop in his form. He finished last season with 21 goals and eight assists, figures which remained impressive but represented a clear fall from his previous output.

According to a report by Spanish newspaper Sport, Raphinha is now facing the strongest competition for his place since joining Barcelona. The club have signed Anthony Gordon and Jesse Pissou, while Karim Adeyemi could also be used on the left side of the attack.

Those additions are expected to create a fierce contest for places in Barcelona’s forward line. The new arrivals are regarded as players capable of applying intense pressure, attacking at speed and contributing goals, qualities which could make the battle for a starting role particularly demanding.

Marcus Rashford has since left the club. Despite recording 14 goals and 14 assists, he ultimately failed to mount a sustained challenge to Raphinha’s position. The Brazilian’s situation has changed with the arrival of players who offer different characteristics and are expected to compete more directly for opportunities.

Gordon is likely to be central to that contest. His pace, aggressive pressing and ability to score mean Raphinha may have to produce his best form if he is to remain one of the first names in Barcelona’s line-up.

The pressure on Raphinha is therefore not based solely on his own performances. Barcelona’s recruitment has strengthened the options available in the attacking positions and provided the coaching staff with several alternatives on the left flank.

Two years ago, Raphinha’s exceptional numbers gave him a clear advantage. Last season, injuries and a modest decline in production left the door open for other players to challenge him. With Gordon and Pissou now part of the squad, and Adeyemi also a potential option in the same area, the Brazilian enters the new campaign needing to re-establish his authority.

His previous record means he remains an important player for Barcelona, but his starting place can no longer be assumed. The competition created by the three deals could push Raphinha to rediscover the level that made him indispensable, while giving Barcelona greater depth and variety in attack.