Barcelona captaincy set for major change after Ter Stegen and Araujo exits; two candidates to complete new group

Barcelona captaincy set for major change after Ter Stegen and Araujo exits; two candidates to complete new group Barcelona are set for a major change in their first-team captaincy following the departures of Marc-Andre ter Stegen and Ronald Araujo, with the club now needing to appoint two new members of the leadership group. According to Mundo Deportivo , Frenkie de Jong remains next in line despite his current injury, while Raphinha and Pedri are also expected to have prominent roles when the new captaincy order is decided. However, considering the current circumstances with De Jong’s injury, Barcelona still have two more spots to fill. De Jong and Raphinha lead Barcelona captaincy set Until the end of last season, Barcelona’s captaincy order consisted of Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Ronald Araujo, Frenkie de Jong, Raphinha and Pedri. Ter Stegen’s loan move to Girona in January moved Araujo into the first-captain position, but the Uruguayan’s subsequent departure has created another vacancy at the top of the hierarchy. De Jong is now the natural candidate to become Barcelona’s first captain. However, the Dutchman’s current injury complicates the situation. De Jong is expected to be unavailable for several months, meaning Barcelona will need other players to lead the team on the pitch during his absence. Hansi Flick has a big decision to make. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) That is where Raphinha becomes particularly important. The Brazilian has grown into one of the most influential figures in the squad both on and off the field.  His performances, personality and relationship with his teammates have increased his standing within the dressing room, making him a strong candidate to wear the armband regularly. Furthermore, Pedri would also move further up the leadership structure.  The midfielder has already established himself as one of Barcelona’s most important players and has the potential to remain part of the club’s captaincy group for many years. Eric Garcia and Gavi emerge as new options With De Jong, Raphinha and Pedri expected to occupy three of the leading positions, Barcelona still need two more players to complete their captaincy group. Eric Garcia could be one of Barcelona’s new captains. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images) As per the outlet, Eric Garcia is one of the strongest candidates. The defender has the experience of playing at the highest level and also has a connection with Barcelona’s youth system.  His La Masia background gives him an additional advantage, while his time in the first team has helped him develop a strong understanding of the club and its expectations. On the other hand, Gavi is another player who could be considered despite his age. The midfielder is only 22, but his time with the Barcelona first team has already given him significant experience. More importantly, he represents many of the qualities traditionally associated with the club’s identity. That connection could work strongly in his favour when Barcelona decide who should complete the new captaincy group.