Raphinha will stay at Barcelona, club president Joan Laporta announced on 13 Jul 2026, quashing speculation that the Brazilian winger might leave after the arrivals of Anthony Gordon and Karim Adeyemi. Laporta stressed the new signings are unrelated to any plan to move the Brazil international.
What did Laporta say?
Laporta, speaking to journalist Fabrizio Romano, said, “We do not want Raphinha to leave. He’s a key player for us.” The president’s comment came as Barcelona prepared to unveil Gordon from Newcastle United and finalize Adeyemi’s transfer from Dortmund. By stating the signings are not linked to Raphinha, Laporta aimed to calm fans worried about a potential squad shake‑up.
Why the rumors surfaced
The buzz began after Barcelona confirmed Gordon’s summer move and hinted at a deal for Adeyemi. Media outlets linked the two acquisitions to a possible reshuffle that could see Raphinha pushed out for fresh talent. Adding to the chatter, the club’s recent performances have sparked debate about the best lineup to challenge for La Liga and European honors.
How Raphinha fits into Barcelona’s plans
Raphinha, who joined Barcelona last season, contributed eight goals and twelve assists, helping the team secure a top‑four finish. His pace on the wing and ability to cut inside make him a valuable asset in Pep Guardiola’s system. Laporta’s reassurance suggests the club still sees him as integral to their attacking strategy, especially with the Champions League looming.
What’s next for the squad?
Barcelona will announce Gordon’s official contract details within days, while negotiations for Adeyemi are expected to close before the transfer window shuts on 31 Aug. With Raphinha confirmed to stay, the focus now shifts to how the new forwards will blend with the existing roster. Fans can anticipate preseason friendlies in late July, where the coach will likely experiment with different attacking combinations.
Impact on the transfer market
Laporta’s statement may deter other clubs from pursuing Raphinha this summer, stabilizing Barcelona’s wage bill. At the same time, the club’s willingness to invest in Gordon and Adeyemi signals an aggressive approach to refresh the squad without sacrificing proven talent. The balance between retaining stars like Raphinha and integrating newcomers will define Barcelona’s transfer narrative for the rest of the season.