Raphinha in sweet form
Determination and self-confidence. Raphinha is a key part of Xavi Hernández's plans and Saturday was another example of why. The rise of Lamine Yamal means his role has been more limited of late, but that doesn't mean that the Brazilian isn't still a powerful force down the left wing.
Last season he was getting far more minutes and provided winning goals against all of Valencia, Osasuna and Athletic, for a season total of 10 goals and 12 assists in 50 games. This campaign has also seen him make some very important contributions.
Top displays
His goal won the three points against UD Las Palmas,and along with Lewandowski and Ferran he continues be one of the top three players when it comes to netting goals. That's six for him this year, as well as ten assists, and that's in 29 games. He's been involved in five goals in the last six games, in the form of two goals and three goal passes.
Lucky amulet
In total since arriving in the Catalan capital, Raphinha has contributed 16 goals and 22 assists. Those 16 goals have all come in different games, and four of them were game winners.
The fact that he has never scored more than one goal in a game is something not to be viewed negatively, especially considering that Barça have never lost a game in which he has scored (14 wins and 2 draws).
More news here