⏳ Raphinha Reacts to Nico Williams–Barcelona Transfer Buzz
Nico Williams continues to be at the center of intense transfer speculation, with reports suggesting the Athletic Bilbao winger has personally opened talks over a summer move to Barcelona.
The links have grown stronger by the day, sparking concerns among fans that his arrival could come at the expense of Raphinha’s place in the starting XI.
But if the Brazilian winger is worried, he certainly isn’t showing it.
On his official Facebook page, Raphinha shared a photo of himself alongside Nico Williams, captioned simply with an hourglass emoji (⏳) — a subtle yet powerful message that suggests he’s not only unbothered by the rumors, but possibly welcoming Nico’s arrival.
It’s a gesture that has fans buzzing, interpreting the post as a sign of camaraderie, confidence, and maybe even excitement for what’s to come.
With Hansi Flick now in charge at Barça and a summer rebuild underway, the idea of Raphinha and Nico playing together rather than competing could become a thrilling reality.
🔥 After the season he’s had, Raphinha’s not afraid of competition.
But with Nico Williams heavily linked to Barcelona, how might the lineup change?
🧐 RAPHINHA BENCHED?
Here’s how Barcelona could line up with Nico Williams:
🔁 Potential XI (4-3-3):
Lewandowski
Nico Williams Lamine Yamal
Pedri Gündoğan
De Jong
Balde Araujo Koundé Cancelo*
Ter Stegen
Bench: Raphinha, Fermín, Gavi (injured), Ferran Torres, Roque
*Cancelo dependent on loan renewal or replacement.
🧠 Tactical Notes:
- Nico Williams offers explosive pace and direct dribbling on the left, complementing Lamine Yamal on the right — a frightening duo.
- Raphinha, despite a strong season, might become a high-impact rotation option or even compete for the right-wing spot if Yamal is rested.
- Flick could switch between 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1, potentially starting Raphinha behind Lewandowski in some setups.
🗣️ Fan reactions:
💬 “With this depth, we might finally challenge again in Europe.”
💬 “Nico and Yamal? Defenders are in trouble.”
💬 “Raphinha off the bench is still elite.”
