Barcelona captain Raphinha has openly questioned Atlético Madrid’s handling of Julián Álvarez, expressing confusion over the club’s stance toward the Argentine forward amid talk of the player’s desire to leave.
Speaking to RAC1, Raphinha said: “I don’t understand what Atlético did; because if a player is not comfortable somewhere, and I’m talking about myself, it’s hard for things to go well.” He added: “He made clear his desire to leave.”
Raphinha’s Strong Start to the Season
Raphinha’s comments come as he enjoys a strong start with Barcelona this season, having scored nine goals in La Liga and two in the Champions League. He stated he was not surprised by this level, as he expected a good start after the work he had put in.
The Brazilian star revealed that playing as a pure striker was a new experience for him, explaining that he had never played so consistently in the number 9 position before. However, he quickly adapted to coach Hansi Flick’s demands and affirmed his readiness to play in any position that serves the team.
On Comparisons with Messi and Career Peak
Raphinha also addressed his numbers surpassing those of Lionel Messi at the start of the season, describing it as “madness,” but stressed that Messi remains “the best player in history.” He considers himself to be currently living “the peak of his career.”
He praised the role Hansi Flick has played in changing his situation at Barcelona, noting that the German coach contributed significantly to his transformation and the development of his level since last season.
Support for Lamine Yamal for the Ballon d’Or
When discussing the Ballon d’Or, Raphinha clearly voiced his support for his teammate Lamine Yamal, stating that his numbers, titles, and performances with Barcelona and the Spanish national team make him, in his view, the most deserving of the award.
He said: “If the award is fair, it should go to Lamine.” He added: “Mbappé? The Ballon d’Or belongs to Lamine.”
Barcelona’s captain believes the team has enough to compete for titles this season, affirming that winning the Champions League and La Liga would be “the best thing” he could achieve with the club, provided the team maintains its current level.