The former Leeds United player has had a fantastic start to the new campaign.
Raphinha, a former winger for Leeds United, made an effortless transition to Barcelona captain on Sunday night, scoring twice as his team defeated Villarreal 5-1.
Barcelona maintained their unbeaten start to the season with a sixth straight victory at El Madrigal, reinforcing their position as early favorites. Raphinha began the game on the left flank and played every minute of that early run, but it was teammate Robert Lewandowski who stole the show with a masterful brace in the first half.
Just before halftime, Ayoze Perez gave Villarreal a response, and Raphinha unceremoniously assumed captaincy. After claiming a cross, goalie Marc-Andre ter Stegen landed awkwardly and was subsequently taken out on a stretcher with what appeared to be a significant knee injury.
Raphinha assumed leadership for the duration of the match as one of the five members of the leadership group that manager Hansi Flick had selected over the summer, and he led his team through a challenging period to win handily. Just before the hour, Pablo Torre made it 3-1, and the former Whites player received his duel with a late brace.
After scoring with a deflected effort from the edge of the box on minute 74, the Brazilian grabbed a feed from Lamine Yamal and bounced a half-volleyed effort past Diego Conde. Raphinha is having the finest season start since moving from Leeds to Barcelona in 2022 with five goals and two assists in six games; yet, the winger focused on his team for yet another outstanding showing.
After leading his team to victory, Raphinha told Mundo Deportivo, “This victory goes to Ter Stegen.” “We are aware of his significance to us. He is a unique individual who constantly lends a hand, both on and off the field. This win is his.
It’s my greatest start to the season since I’ve joined Barça, but I believe that the past is the past. Compared to my two goals, the team’s success makes me much happy. We had a game today and came out on top, but now we have to consider Getafe.
“I find this club to be really special. I would be lying if I claimed that I had been a Barça fan my entire life. However, I watched the team play as a child and was inspired by many of its players, so it is meaningful to me to be able to wear this shirt and showcase my work here.
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