Raphinha reveals key element of game has been weakened – 'It's always characterized me as a player'
Barcelona wing Raphinha has been in good form to start the season for his side. Scoring three goals and providing three assists in the opening four games, the Brazilian has been a key part of Hansi Flick's opening spell as Blaugrana coach.
To the surprise of many, including himself, Raphinha was named one of the five captains in Barcelona for this season. Speaking to the Barcelona mediahe explained that it had turned him on.
“Being captain is another thing to add to your profile, Roberto could also be, Jules, Inigo… they are really captains in the dressing room, I was very happy with the choice, if I tell you that I expected it, I'm lying .”
“This means that what I do internally, the kids and the veterans see it. Being a captain is being ready to play and help in whatever is necessary and fight for whatever is necessary, both on the field and outside. M “He was very enthusiastic.”
This summer Raphinha has been honest about the toll this season has taken on him, saying football “destroys you”. He also admitted having to adjust his game since arriving at Barcelona.
“It's true that after the World Cup, I started to lose the one-on-one side of my game, something I like to do, I like to go at opponents, and it's something that has always characterized me. But I also have other attributes to my game, which make my game stronger.”
Raphinha: “We know that people are super excited for us, but we also know that the season has just started and we have to keep it up.”
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) September 13, 2024
Raphinha continued to point to a precise moment when he felt that things clicked for him at Barcelona.
“The tie against PSG in the Champions League. I highlight two elements, they were my two best matches individually in the Champions League and the feeling that I was not good enough to advance to the next stage, but the tie m “It gave me a lot more confidence and made me believe in myself. People also knew that I could contribute to the team and trust me.”
The 27-year-old is likely to play against Girona on Sunday as Barcelona look to maintain their 100% record. Michel Sanchez's side did the double over their Catalan neighbors, and the Blaugrana will be out for revenge.
