Barcelona has taken a firm and decisive step in its aggressive summer transfer plans by intensifying its pursuit of Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams. The 21-year-old winger, widely regarded as one of La Liga’s standout performers this past season, has caught the attention of top European clubs — but it is Barcelona that now stands at the front of the queue.
Both the club’s sporting director and newly appointed head coach Hansi Flick have placed Williams at the top of their transfer wishlist, with Flick already crafting a tactical blueprint that revolves around the Spanish international’s arrival.
Hansi Flick envisions a Barcelona side driven by pace, creativity, and direct attacking play, particularly down the wings. Nico Williams would naturally slot into the left-wing role, providing flair, speed, and one-on-one brilliance — qualities that have made him a nightmare for defenders in La Liga.
On the opposite flank, teenage sensation Lamine Yamal will retain his position, solidifying the team’s commitment to youthful, dynamic wide play.
In a surprising twist to these tactical plans, Brazilian international Raphinha — despite persistent rumors about his potential exit — is expected to remain at the club. However, Flick has made it clear that Raphinha will no longer be deployed on the wing.
Instead, he will transition into a central attacking role, operating behind the striker as a playmaker. Flick believes Raphinha’s movement, ability to exploit spaces, and knack for threading decisive passes make him an ideal candidate for this role. His high work rate and defensive discipline also add balance to the new-look formation.
Leading the line will be veteran striker Robert Lewandowski, supported by Dani Olmo, whose versatility and intelligence make him a valuable asset in Flick’s attacking setup. Olmo’s familiarity with Flick’s tactical style — having worked with him at RB Leipzig — positions him as a key figure in the coach’s plans, capable of rotating between roles as needed.
Aware of Lewandowski’s advancing age, the coaching staff is keen to manage his workload carefully, with Nico’s signing providing the necessary squad depth and reducing the team’s over-reliance on the Polish striker.
Flick’s overall strategy is to reshape Barcelona into a faster, more direct team capable of unsettling defenses through rapid transitions and wide play.
The arrival of Nico Williams, coupled with Yamal’s development and Raphinha’s repositioning, marks a significant shift in the club’s tactical identity — one aimed at restoring Barcelona’s dominance in both domestic and European competitions.
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