Excessive-performing Barcelona ahead was not favoured by Xavi; issues modified underneath Flick

Raphinha has as soon as once more made Barcelona conscious that his performances within the first half of the season weren’t a fluke.

The Brazilian has began 2025 on an emphatic notice, along with his most up-to-date blitz coming in opposition to Actual Betis, as he scored a purpose within the 5-1 victory.

Raphinha’s complete tally for the season stands at 20 targets, with the ahead additionally racking up 11 assists. As per SPORT, Raphinha’s good turnaround might be attributed to at least one man: Hansi Flick.

Raphinha wasn’t favoured by Xavi

The report provides that Raphinha was by no means fairly preferred by Barcelona’s former supervisor, Xavi Hernandez.

The statistics inform a transparent story: out of 37 matches, Raphinha began absolutely in simply six, which is a mere 16.22% of the video games.

Moreover, of his 25 begins, he was substituted off 16 instances, accounting for 65% of his appearances.

This sample of frequent substitution was a transparent indication of an absence of belief from Xavi, and it was one thing that visibly annoyed Raphinha, who felt undermined by these choices.

Hansi Flick has been the key to Raphinha’s turnaround (Picture by David Ramos/Getty Pictures)

Flick’s belief modified every part

With the arrival of latest supervisor Hansi Flick, Raphinha’s place at Barcelona has undergone a big transformation.

Flick, recognizing Raphinha’s potential, had an open dialog with him. Within the assembly, Flick ensured Raphinha he would belief his skills, however in return, the coach demanded versatility.

Not like Xavi, Flick envisioned Raphinha not as a standard proper winger however as a playmaker behind the entrance three.

This transformation in position has been pivotal. This season, Raphinha has performed 18 full video games out of 28, a dramatic improve from the earlier 12 months.

By late September, he had performed each minute within the first eight official matches of the season, with just one substitution famous in a league recreation.

Quick ahead to January, Raphinha is among the most efficient attackers in Europe’s high 5 leagues this season with a direct involvement in 31 targets (20G, 11A) in simply 28 aggressive appearances.