FC Barcelona managed to get past Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic Club with a convincing win at the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium. Goals from Lamine Yamal and Robert Lewandowski were enough to get past the Basque club on the night.
Many Barcelona players had an exceptional game against Athletic Club. Apart from the two goalscorers, the likes of Jules Kounde, Pedri, and Raphinha put in performances to remember at the Montjuic.
Raphinha, operating in a #10 role had a tireless performance against the Basque club. Consistently pressing for the entire game, the Brazilian covered every single blade on the pitch in an incredible display of physical and mental strength.
As per SofaScore, the 27-year-old recorded 73 touches in 90 minutes, completing 35 of his 42 attempted passes. This included three key passes and six out of seven successive long balls. He created three big chances for his teammates and won nine of his 13 ground duels.
Speaking about the €50m-rated forward’s performance after the game as quoted by Spanish outlet Diario AS, Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick highlighted his versatility and his pressing:
“Rafa can play in any attacking position. He can play as a 10, or he can change positions. He is very good for pressing. This idea of pressing with Raphinha is better.”
FC Barcelona fans might not have already appreciated what Raphinha brings to the table but if the first two games are anything to go by, it looks like the Brazilian international has found his home in the Catalan team.
Hansi Flick’s stamp is there to see all over the team and Raphinha’s shift to the #10 role is an example of why the German coach is regarded so highly. Let’s see how the 27-year-old season pans out going forward.
