Frenkie de Jong is the frontrunner to become Barcelona captain for the 2025/26 season, according to Spanish outlet El Desmarque, as the club weighs a change in leadership amid tensions with current skipper Marc-André ter Stegen.
The German goalkeeper’s role is reportedly under review following his refusal to sign a medical document critical to the club’s efforts to register new players. The standoff has led to mounting pressure within the club, with senior figures considering stripping him of the armband—a move seen as a step towards pushing him out.
Despite still officially holding the captaincy, Ter Stegen’s future at Barça is now uncertain. Club officials are said to be exploring ways to ease him out, and removing his captaincy could be part of that strategy.
Should the change go ahead, De Jong is expected to assume the captaincy. The Dutch midfielder has grown in influence since joining from Ajax in 2019 and is now viewed as a key leader in the dressing room.
Ronald Araújo and Raphinha are reportedly next in line for vice-captain roles. Raphinha, in particular, wore the armband on several occasions last season and is praised for his guidance of younger teammates.
Pedri is also likely to join the leadership group. Despite his age, he holds considerable respect within the squad. The final spot could fall to either Gavi or veteran centre-back Iñigo Martínez, who has quickly become a steady presence since arriving last summer.
