Barcelona has made a decisive move to step up its pursuit of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, who has emerged as one of the standout players of the season. The Spanish international is now a top priority for both the club’s sporting management and coach Hansi Flick, who has already devised a specific tactical plan to ensure Williams’ seamless integration into the squad.
Flick’s vision focuses on reinforcing the flanks with dynamic, powerful wingers who excel in one-on-one situations. Under this system, Williams would take up his natural position on the left wing, while Lamine Yamal continues on the right — a role in which he has firmly established himself as one of the most promising young talents in Europe.
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Despite ongoing rumors about his potential departure, Raphinha remains an integral part of Flick’s plans. However, the Brazilian will not be used as a winger; instead, he will transition into a central playmaking role behind the striker.
Flick believes that Raphinha possesses the ideal attributes to exploit spaces, make penetrating runs into the box, and link up effectively between the lines. His work rate and defensive contributions further strengthen his value in the new tactical setup.
With Nico on the left, Lamine on the right, and Raphinha operating as the central playmaker, the forward line will be led by Robert Lewandowski and Dani Olmo, who will rotate as the main striker. Flick, who knows Olmo well from their time at RB Leipzig, is confident in his versatility and ability to play multiple roles in attack.
Given Lewandowski’s age — he turns 36 this year — the coaching staff recognizes the importance of managing his playing time more carefully. The addition of a player like Nico Williams not only boosts the squad’s depth but also allows Barcelona to remain competitive while easing the physical demands on the Polish striker.
Olmo, on the other hand, provides tactical flexibility, strong vision, and the ability to connect fluidly with both flanks, making him an ideal fit for a variety of attacking formations.
Flick’s plan is to transform Barcelona into a more direct, fast-paced team, relying on quick wide players and sharp vertical movement. The anticipated signing of Nico Williams, combined with the retention of Lamine Yamal and the repositioning of Raphinha, marks a critical step toward building a dynamic, youthful, and highly skilled attack.
This new-look front three is expected to deliver explosive performances and help return Barcelona to the summit of European football — fueled by homegrown talent, international experience, and a tactical blueprint led by a coach determined to bring the best out of his squad.
