Anthony Gordon’s Impact on Raphinha’s Role at Barcelona

How Anthony Gordon’s Arrival Reshapes Raphinha’s Role in Barcelona’s Attack

Competition grows on the left wing, yet Raphinha remains a key figure under Hansi Flick

BlaugranaNews EditorialJune 01, 20262 min read

So what

Gordon’s signing broadens Barcelona’s tactical options, allowing Raphinha to operate not only on the left but across different attacking positions. This adds depth to the squad and offers Flick flexible lineups depending on opponents. Monitoring Raphinha’s fitness will be crucial to maximize his impact throughout the season.

Barcelona recently secured the signing of Anthony Gordon, a versatile attacker who primarily operates on the left flank. This move raised questions about Raphinha’s role, who has traditionally been the first-choice left winger. However, coach Hansi Flick and the club have expressed confidence that competition between them will benefit the team rather than disrupt it.

Raphinha, despite some injury setbacks last season, remains one of Barcelona’s leaders and serves as a captain on the squad. He has shown the ability to play not just on the left wing, but also on the right and in a more central attacking midfield role. Gordon, meanwhile, has displayed his versatility by playing as a left winger and also as a central striker, giving Flick multiple tactical options.

Statistically, both players contribute across various positions. In the 2025/2026 season, Raphinha made 22 appearances on the left wing with 15 goals and 6 assists, plus additional contributions on the right and centrally. Gordon played 29 games on the left with 8 goals and 4 assists, as well as 16 appearances as a striker, scoring 9 times. These figures highlight the increased flexibility Barcelona gains with this attack.

What this means

First, Gordon’s arrival significantly increases competition on the left flank. This pushes Raphinha to maintain high performance and adapt to new roles, which could enhance his motivation and form. Barcelona benefits from a wealth of attacking options capable of switching roles without compromising quality.

Second, this positional fluidity enhances Flick’s tactical arsenal. He can deploy Raphinha on the right wing or as an attacking midfielder—particularly useful during rotations or tactical shifts mid-game. This flexibility intensifies pressure on defenses and supports a more aggressive offensive style.

Third, having multiple players comfortable in various roles helps manage player workload and reduce injury risks. Raphinha’s previous physical issues suggest that rest periods will be easier to arrange without weakening the lineup, thanks to the depth Gordon provides.

In conclusion, Anthony Gordon’s signing does not diminish Raphinha’s importance but rather expands coach Flick’s strategic options. This bolsters Barcelona’s attacking power, a critical factor for success in both domestic and European competitions. The upcoming season promises exciting developments in Barcelona’s forward line dynamics.