The former Leeds United player is having a fantastic start to the new season.
Raphinha, a former Leeds United winger, excelled as Barcelona’s captain, scoring twice in a 5-1 victory over Villarreal.
Barcelona reaffirmed their status as early title favourites with a comprehensive victory at El Madrigal, extending their unbeaten start to the season with a sixth win in as many games. Raphinha played every minute of that early run and began on the left wing, but it was teammate Robert Lewandowski who claimed the early lead with a clinical first-half brace.
Villarreal grabbed one back right before halftime through Ayoze Perez, before Raphinha took over as captain in terrible circumstances. Goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen originally wore the armband, but landed awkwardly after claiming a cross and was subsequently stretchered out with what appeared to be a catastrophic knee injury.
Raphinha, one of the five-strong leadership group designated by manager Hansi Flick over the summer, took on the role of captain for the remainder of the game and guided his team through a difficult period to win handily. Pablo Torre made it 3-1 just before the hour mark, but the former Whites player scored again in the dying minutes.
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On 74 minutes, the Brazilian rifled home a deflected effort from the edge of the box before latching onto Lamine Yamal’s ball and bouncing a half-volley past Diego Conde. Raphinha has five goals and two assists in six games, his greatest start to a season since leaving Leeds for Barcelona in 2022, but the winger turned his attention to his teammates for another outstanding performance.
“This victory goes to Ter Stegen,” Raphinha told Mundo Deportivo after leading his team to victory. “We understand how important he is to us.” He is a special person both on and off the pitch; he is always willing to help, and this triumph is dedicated to him.
“This is my best start to a season since becoming a Barça player, but I believe that what is past is past. I’m much delighted with the team’s win than with my two goals. We played today and won, but now we must focus about Getafe.
“This club is really special to me. I’d be lying if I said I’ve been a Barça fan since I was born, but as I grew up and saw how the team played, with so many players who inspired me, the opportunity to wear this shirt and showcase my work here is meaningful to me.”
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