FC Barcelona: Raphinha steps up to solve the number 9 dilemma

23.08.26 FT LaLiga Spain

Elche

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Barcelona

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After bagging a brace and providing an assist against Elche, Raphinha has put himself forward as a temporary solution at the tip of the Catalan attack.

With just a week left before the summer transfer window slams shut, FC Barcelona still hasn't secured the much-needed number 9 for this season. Robert Lewandowski's departure to MLS and Marcus Rashford's return to Manchester United have left a significant gap up front. Several strikers have been considered, with Julián Álvarez as the top target, but so far, no deal has materialized.

Raphinha puts himself at Hansi Flick's disposal

Following the 5-0 victory over Elche in La Liga, Raphinha made his intentions clear.

"I'm ready to do my part and play, even as a number 9. I feel comfortable on the pitch. No problem. As for whether a new striker will join the team or not, I'll leave that to Deco and the club," said the Brazilian in the mixed zone.

Hansi Flick opted to start his captain up front, flanked by Karim Adeyemi on the left and Lamine Yamal on the right. The decision paid off handsomely, with Raphinha netting twice and providing an assist. This standout performance only underscores his importance, having recently been named Barça's main captain.

Julián Álvarez remains an extremely expensive option

This successful experiment could ease the urgency, but it certainly doesn't rule out a new arrival. Raphinha is naturally a winger, and Barcelona will need a true center-forward to chase its ambitions, especially in the Champions League. The Álvarez pursuit, however, remains highly complicated: Atlético de Madrid is now reportedly open to negotiations, but only for an offer of at least €150 million—a demand that far exceeds the figures Barça previously considered.

Also read: Elche 0 – 5 Barça: Catalan masterclass and major frustration for Lamine Yamal

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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