FC Barcelona announce new first-team captains for 2024/25 season
What's the story
FC Barcelona have revealed their new first-team captains for the 2024/25 season.
The line-up includes Ronald Araujo, Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Frenkie de Jong, Raphinha, and Pedri.
These players were selected by their fellow squad members in a democratic process.
Ter Stegen is set to lead the team following Sergi Roberto's departure.
Here we decode the key details.
Leadership transition
Ter Stegen's journey to captaincy at FC Barcelona
Ter Stegen, who was the second choice in the previous season, is no stranger to leading the team.
He frequently took on the role of captain whenever Roberto was unavailable or not picked in the starting line-up.
The German goalkeeper has been a part of Barca since the 2014/15 season and has made an impressive 414 appearances for the club.
His experience and leadership skills have earned him this new role as chief captain of FC Barcelona's first team.
Promotions
Araujo and de Jong rise in captaincy ranks
Following Ter Stegen's promotion, Ronald Araujo and de Jong have also moved up a single position each in the captaincy hierarchy.
Araujo has made 150 appearances for the club, while de Jong has played in 213 games.
Their increased responsibilities reflect their growing influence within the team and their proven ability to lead on the field.
Newcomers
Raphinha and Pedri: New entrants in captaincy lineup
Raphinha and Pedri are the latest additions to FC Barcelona's captaincy lineup, taking up the fourth and fifth positions respectively.
Despite his youth, Pedri is already a highly respected figure at the club post 144 official appearances.
Meanwhile, Raphinha has quickly gained respect among his teammates. He has made 88 appearances to date.
Their inclusion underscores their significant impact on the team and their potential for leadership roles.
Information
Barca won their opening game in La Liga 2024-25
Barcelona, who face Athletic Club later tonight in matchweek 2 of the La Liga 2024-25 season, got off to a positive start after beating Valencia 2-1 in their opening clash under new head coach Hansi Flick.