When No One Believed in Him
This is Flick’s Greatest Invention at Barcelona
If someone had said ten months ago that Raphinha would be Hansi Flick’s most important player in tough times, we wouldn’t have believed it.
According to “Varzesh3,” in the match against Leganés (Barcelona’s 1-0 win), between two crucial games against Dortmund, this Brazilian star fought with all his heart on the pitch. His commitment leaves no doubt, but his tireless sprint in the final moments of the first half to intercept the ball from Raba after Altimira’s cross deserves praise. This move is a perfect example for La Masia kids, showing what it means to wear the Barcelona badge: a player from Porto Alegre who gives everything for Barcelona.
All Barcelona fans should be grateful to Flick for reviving such a player. That Raphinha, after more than 45 minutes of relentless running, still had the energy and desire to intercept the ball with stunning speed, instead of dropping his head or catching his breath, is a testament to Hansi Flick’s coaching art.
Flick’s management has been key to Raphinha’s revival. The German coach trusted him when doubts about Raphinha were at their peak, and while many questioned his compatibility with Barcelona’s philosophy, Flick turned him into a key figure in the attack. Flick not only maximized Raphinha’s speed, technique, and energy but also gave him a significant role from the start. It was a trade-off: Flick gave him responsibility, and Raphinha responded with his best version.
Raphinha’s move in the Leganés game was reminiscent of the scene where he created the first goal against Dortmund at Montjuïc. At that moment, it seemed he snatched the goal from Kobel’s grasp, but this move showed why he deserves the title “Mr. Champions League.” Three days later, with his incredible stamina and the speed of a top striker, he prevented the game from being tied at a crucial moment.
Flick and Raphinha’s relationship goes beyond tactics: Flick has given him freedom on the pitch, unconditional trust, and an inspiring role in the team. When Raphinha believes, how can others not? He has repaid this trust with goals, assists, and decisive performances, keeping Barcelona on the path to glory.
Raphinha is the spice of Barcelona’s attacking trio; although he has lost some of his explosiveness, he is at his peak, playing with heart and leadership. 28 goals and 22 assists are impressive stats.
Raphinha today symbolizes Flick’s philosophy: a coach who knows how to place each player in their best position. When many saw him as incompatible with Barcelona and imagined him moving to Saudi Arabia, Flick saved him. Raphinha repays this favor every day; this time with a brilliant performance in a defensive role.