FC Barcelona have not been playing at their typical standard this season, and there are various reasons. While some point fingers towards the coach, a more analytical perception would point towards the forwards. The creative minds of Barcelona continue to conjure up chances, but finishing them is another story all together.
In fact, Barcelona has maintained its place among the most creatively sound teams in Europe this season. Unfortunately, however, they are also among the worst converters of chances in the continent. For this exact reason, the club’s forwards are facing much criticism.
Looking at the statistical output, Barça’s top scorer in the league remains an underperforming Robert Lewandowski. With 8 goals belonging to the Pole, several others follow in second place with 3 goals each. Raphinha, Joao Felix, and Ferran Torres each have the same amount of three goals to their name.
However, Sergi Roberto also has the exact same number of goals. Beyond just being a midfielder and not a forward, Roberto has also played significantly fewer minutes than the aforementioned forwards. Xavi, consequently, is beginning to get frustrated with his attackers.
According to AS, however, Raphinha hopes to change this. The Brazilian winger, despite scoring in the latest official game against Almeria, acknowledges his poor record this season. In fact, the former Leeds winger had not scored in the last 13 appearances for club and country.
Yet, with his latest goal, the 27-year-old reignites a new hope. He hopes to improve his conversion of chances and not let the likes of Ferran Torres, Lamine Yamal, or even possibly Vitor Roque take his place. His ambition remains clear, and he hopes to impress Xavi once again.
Beyond his goalscoring exploits, however, he has been a reliable servant to the club. He has already given 6 assists across both La Liga and the Champions League this season. Moreover, he regularly creates chances for his teammates and provides energy that can be tricky to deal with for the opposition.
Yet, his record in the Champions League remains abysmally poor. A forward that hopes to maintain a starting place within Barcelona needs to do better, and Raphinha understands this.
A whole new half of the season is still yet to play, and everyone associated with Barça will hope that the club can turn its situation around, Raphinha included.
