Barcelona are in commanding form as the 2026-27 LaLiga season gets underway, and the reigning champions are making a clear statement of intent. Hansi Flick's side beat Valencia 2-0 at Mestalla on Sunday to extend their perfect start to the campaign, sitting top of the table on nine points from three completed fixtures. The win followed a 5-2 demolition of Rayo Vallecano at Camp Nou, a result that underlined the attacking fluency Flick has built into this squad.

Off the pitch, the club confirmed Raphinha as the new permanent captain, making history as the first Brazilian player to hold the armband at Barcelona. The decision signals a clear shift in the leadership structure following notable summer departures, with Lamine Yamal also stepping into a formal role within the five-man captaincy group despite being just 19.

The summer transfer business has added real quality. Anthony Gordon has settled quickly after his £70 million move from Newcastle, earning the trust of the dressing room and starting at Mestalla. The arrival of Rodri, backed publicly by former striker Robert Lewandowski, gives Flick an experienced midfield anchor as the club prepares for Champions League competition. Barcelona also broke the one billion euro revenue barrier for the 2025-26 season, presenting those figures at a general assembly later this month. The combination of strong form, clear leadership, and financial recovery makes this one of the most settled periods the club has seen in years.