Five reasons why Raphinha is perfect for FC Barcelona
It looks like the Blaugrana will edge out Chelsea to land the Brazilian.
FC Barcelona is going through a really tough time in the transfer market. Their recruitment has been very conscious so far with the uncertain financial situation around the club. But they are reportedly slowly progressing to lure Raphinha to Camp Nou. FC Barcelona has been trying to sign the Brazilian winger since the January transfer window, as he is Xavi's favourite choice on wings going into next season.
Reports have suggested that his agent Deco has already agreed on personal terms with Barcelona. But the Catalan club is yet to reach an agreement with Leeds United. It was expected that Blaugranes would go for Raphinha later in the transfer window, but Chelsea's sudden entry has changed everything. At the moment, FC Barcelona has shifted its focus from Robert Lewandowski to Raphinha. And is working hard to reach an agreement on a transfer fee.
Raphinha has earned a great reputation in the Premier League for his skills, and today we're going to prove why he's the perfect fit for FC Barcelona.
5. Technical brilliance
Players from Brazil are generally gifted with brilliant footwork, which can prove troublesome for defenders of any size. However, carrying the same technical game into the European leagues isn't a piece of cake. Especially in league with a fast pace like the Premier League, players often find it difficult to show off their technical brilliance.
The same cannot be said for Raphinha, who has integrated seamlessly into the Premier League like a duck to water. Since he arrived at Elland Road in 2020, the Brazilian has been a big headache for defenders. There are many echoes of Ronaldinho's skills with his breathtaking skills. At present, FC Barcelona does not have any players with brilliant dribbling skills, and the Brazilian could be a great asset for the club.
4. Goalscoring Instinct
Xavi's tactical philosophy places a high value on wings. When it comes to picking players, he prefers pacey players who can break the opponent wide open. They loaned in Adama Traore last winter, who possessed an electric pace. However, Traore had trouble in the final third phase, which was FC Barcelona's main reason for not purchasing him.
Raphinha, on the other hand, could be a great candidate for Xavi's team. In addition to having electric speed, he has also been good in the final third. Last season, he scored 11 Premier League goals in 35 appearances for Leeds United. As of now, Memphis Depay, and Ansu Fati are the only options for Xavi, but neither has lived up to the Spanish coach's expectations.
3. Genuine Winger
There is no doubt that wingers are the game changers of the game and especially in the history of FC Barcelona, wingers have played a major role in their success. In regards to wingers, the current FC Barcelona squad does not have a lot of good ones. Xavi signed Ferran Torres last season with high expectations from Manchester City. However, the former City player has yet to show his true potential.
A number of other players, including Memphis Depay and Ansu Fati, can also be used by Xavi, but both prefer playing centrally. Particularly Dembele has been criticized for his complacent attitude and inconsistent form. Raphinha is a genuine winger and has established himself as one of Europe's best in recent times. He can fill the big void of wingers in the squad.
2. Good alarming signal for other players
In the last season, FC Barcelona played good football thanks to the arrival of Xavi, but they were still without a trophy. It seemed that FC Barcelona's losses were mainly caused by players' complacency. The signing of a high-level player like Raphinha would definitely send an alarming signal to other players.
With Dembele's contract also in jeopardy, Raphinha's signing for Catalan giants can also push Dembele’s case. He will definitely bring the required insecurity to some players, which will motivate them to give their best. Bringing him into the squad will also add depth and bring the best out of all players.
1. FC Barcelona mindset
FC Barcelona has long admired Raphinha, and the player himself rates Camp Nou as one of his dream destinations. Despite Leeds United's agreement with Chelsea, The Brazilian is yet to speak with Chelsea on personal terms, showing his affection for the Spanish giants.
The Brazilian is not only a passionate FC Barcelona fan but also a transfer-worthy player. In spite of playing for a mid-level club Leeds United, he has proven his mettle in the Premier League. According to reports, FC Barcelona is close to concluding the deal with Leeds United, and Raphinha could be the missing piece to Xavi's puzzle.
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