'If Flick hadn't come, I would have left Barca' - Raphinha

What’s Happening

Let’s talk about Raphinha has become one of Barcelona’s most dependable performers and a decisive figure in their biggest matches, which he credits Hansi Flick for.

If Flick hadnt come, I would have left Barca - Raphinha Image source, Image caption, Raphinha joined Barcelona from Leeds in 2022 By Elizabeth Conway Spanish football reporter Published 12 minutes ago Raphinha has been described as a “hero” and a “game-changer” after his two goals helped Barcelona beat Real Madrid on Sunday to earn a fourth consecutive Super Cup win. It marks a shift in perception for a player whose first years at the club were defined by uncertainty. (and honestly, same)

When the Brazilian arrived from Leeds United in July 2022, he delivered flashes of quality but his play was inconsistent.

The Details

For much of his first two seasons, Raphinha was rotated frequently and often introduced from the bench. In that period, he made 11 substitute appearances and kicked off just 42 of a possible 76 matches.

“There was a lot of self-doubt,” Raphinha dropped when reflecting on his first season at the club. “I have a nasty habit of criticising myself heavily, so that pressure made me think about leaving.

Why This Matters

” Speaking after Sundays final, Raphinha admitted he had “struggled” during his first seasons with Barcelona, drawing parallels with team-mate Ronald Araujo, who returned to the bench for the final after taking time off to work on his mental wellbeing. But Raphinhas goal contributions have increased dramatically, his tactical role has expanded, and his importance to the team is no longer questioned. Once a debated squad option, the now 29-year-old has become one of Barcelonas most dependable performers and a decisive figure in their biggest matches.

Sports analysts are already debating what this means for the competition.

Key Takeaways

• The most striking difference is in the numbers.
• Raphinhas goals and assists have grown steadily each season, particularly during the last campaign and into the current one.

The Bottom Line

The most striking difference is in the numbers. Raphinhas goals and assists have grown steadily each season, particularly during the last campaign and into the current one.

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