Nico Williams’ transfer to Barcelona would trigger major role change for Hansi Flick favourite | OneFootball

According to a new update from Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona’s expected signing of Nico Williams from Athletic Club will bring major tactical adjustments.

With the winger set to cost more than €60 million, the club views him as a guaranteed starter, forcing shifts in the current system, especially when it comes to the role of Raphinha.

Barcelona’s need for a high-level left winger has been a key talking point internally. The technical staff recognises the overreliance on Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, with much of the team’s attacking threat concentrated on the right.

This imbalance has often made it easier for opponents to close Barça down in wide areas. Nico, a left winger, is being seen as the perfect solution to widen the pitch and stretch compact defensive lines.

Raphinha set for central role

Barça’s coaching staff already has a tactical blueprint in mind. The idea is to place Nico on the left and Yamal on the right, giving the team natural width on both sides.

This strategy not only increases creativity but also makes it harder for opposing defences to crowd one flank.

Dani Olmo and Raphinha are expected to have a change in position. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

With Nico and Yamal covering the wings, Raphinha is likely to move into a more central role. The Brazilian, who has shown good attacking form and adaptability, could be used as an attacking midfielder or even in a dual playmaker setup.

He would play just behind the striker, adding fluidity and pressing from the middle of the pitch.

What about Dani Olmo then?

Another name expected to gain importance is Dani Olmo. Barcelona see him as a potential false nine.

That role would allow him to drop in central midfield, rotate with Raphinha, and offer tactical flexibility, something Hansi Flick values highly.

The big-money signing of Nico isn’t just about adding a new name to the squad. It represents a clear plan to fix the team’s imbalance and make full use of wide areas.

With Yamal, Nico, Raphinha, and Olmo, Barcelona could be looking at a dynamic and fluid attacking front that offers both width and creativity.