With Real Madrid's Ballon d'Or frontrunner Vinícius Junior sidelined, Brazilian manager Dorival Junior looked to Raphinha to lead the attack — and the Barcelona captain did not disappoint.
Calm and composed, Raphinha took charge of Brazil's front line, drilling two penalties to help secure the win and bring his goal contribution tally to 13 in as many games for club and country. His confidence is at an all-time high, and it is abundantly clear that the 27-year-old is in the best moment of his career.
✨🇧🇷 Raphinha scores for Brazil and makes it 7 goals this season plus 6 assists with club and country…
…13 G/A for Barça and Brazil. On fire. pic.twitter.com/IGebOlSqlW
His remarkable run of form for Brazil only enhances the hot start Raphinha has enjoyed with Barcelona. After being linked with a potential move away from Camp Nou over the summer, Raphinha has responded by proving himself indispensable for his dream club.
Under new Barcelona manager Hansi Flick, Raphinha has flourished, embracing the responsibility linked with his captaincy. Flick, who has been a firm believer in the Brazilian since arriving in Catalonia, has pushed Raphinha to reach new heights, and the winger has responded by becoming one of the most reliable figures on the team.
While Barcelona's sporting director Deco and club president Joan Laporta considered multiple offers for Raphinha during the summer transfer window, it was Flick who always stood in his corner. The German gaffer’s unwavering support has brought out the best in Raphinha, who has embraced his role as a leader on and off the pitch.
Raphinha’s recent performances for Brazil have only enhanced his stature on the international stage. With Vinícius Júnior sidelined, the pressure was on for the Barcelona man to deliver—and he did so with poise, converting both of his penalties with ease. Raphinha’s composure in the game’s most crucial moments underscores the improved maturity that he has displayed throughout the early parts of the season.
As Raphinha continues to deliver for Barcelona and Brazil, his importance to both teams cannot be overstated. What once seemed like a summer of uncertainty has transformed into a season of redemption for the Brazilian star, who looks set to play a vital role for his club and country moving forward.
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