Two starts and twice MVP for Raphinha
With or without Raphinha, Barça are a very different team. Last season the Brazilian put forward his case for being one of the best players in the world, but his importance for Hansi Flick has become even more evident this season. After missing nine games through injury, his return to the team has raised everyone's competitive level.
Back with a bang
On a personal level he has continued where he left off, with hunger, ambition and decisiveness. He has played a vital role in the victories in both of his starts and was recognised as most valuable player in both too. The Brazilian got 10 minutes against Athletic Club and around half an hour away to Chelsea, but then Hansi Flick included him in the starting eleven against Alavés.
It only took Raphinha one hour of football to make a key pass to Lamine Yamal who made it 1-1 – not counted as an assist due to a slight touch by Lewandowski – and provide an assist for Dani Olmo to make it 2-1, as well as pass on his competitive spirit to his teammates, a captain who leads by example.
Adored on Montjuïc and now at the Spotify Camp Nou
He is insatiable when it comes to finding space, showing for the ball, leading the press and creating danger. He is a unique player. Despite being substituted after 60 minutes against Alavés, he was named MVP of the game and left the pitch to great acclaim from those present at the Spotify Camp Nou, which he had so often received on Montjuïc. There may have been doubts about him a couple of years ago, but he is now adored and he is showing why.
Just three days later, he was the standout player again in the great blaugrana victory against Atlético Madrid. Not a great start when Baena scored, but the hardest-working top player in the world came to fore. Raphinha made yet another run into space and Pedri of course found him with the pass that left him one-on-one with Oblak, who he rounded to score into an open goal. Before and after the goal, Raphinha showed a commitment to pressing, running and facing up opponents, and his energy pervaded into his teammates and the adoring fans. Ultimately, MVP, a comeback, league lead extended, and the confirmation that both Raphinha and Barça are back.