WATCH | Raphinha scored the 3 to 0 for Barcelona vs Valencia

The Barcelona captain took advantage of Valencia's defensive weakness to make it 3-0. Raphinha reached five goals in this 2025 after the goal he scored this Sunday in the match of the 23rd round of the Spanish League against Valencia just 14 minutes into the first half.

Raphinha: A Key Figure in Barcelona’s Future Under Hansi Flick

As 2025 unfolds, Raphinha has firmly established himself as one of the most influential players at Barcelona. The Brazilian winger's remarkable performances have been key to the club’s resurgence, especially following the arrival of the German coach Hansi Flick. Since Flick took over the reins at Barcelona, Raphinha has enjoyed a significant upturn in form, becoming an essential part of Barcelona’s attacking unit. With his dribbling ability, pace, and sharp footballing intelligence, Raphinha has been thriving in Flick’s tactical setup. As the club heads into a new year with high ambitions, much is expected from Raphinha in the 2025 season.

Raphinha’s journey at Barcelona began in the summer of 2022, when he made a high-profile move from Leeds United. The Brazilian international was brought in to add depth and quality to Barcelona’s forward line, and while his early performances showed flashes of brilliance, he struggled at times to consistently deliver at the highest level. His integration into the team was a gradual process, as he had to adjust to Barcelona’s style of play and the high expectations of a club in transition. However, since Hansi Flick took over as head coach, Raphinha has significantly improved his performances, and his impact on the field has become undeniable.

Under Flick’s guidance, Raphinha has flourished due to the German coach’s tactical approach. Flick is known for his high-intensity pressing and emphasis on quick transitions, and this system has suited Raphinha’s strengths perfectly. The Brazilian’s speed, direct running, and technical ability make him a constant threat on the wing. Flick has encouraged Raphinha to stretch the opposition with his runs and provide width in Barcelona’s attack. His ability to cut inside onto his stronger left foot and deliver dangerous crosses or shots on goal has made him a consistent danger in the final third.

One of the most noticeable aspects of Raphinha’s game since Flick’s arrival has been his increased involvement in Barcelona’s offensive play. While previously, Raphinha had shown flashes of his talent but was not always at the center of the team’s attacking schemes, under Flick, he has been asked to take more responsibility. His position on the right-wing, combined with his ability to interchange fluidly with other forwards, has made him a key contributor in Barcelona’s buildup play. His connection with players like Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, and Pedri has been evident, as Raphinha’s link-up play has added a new dimension to Barcelona’s attack.

Another important development under Flick has been Raphinha’s confidence in front of goal. The Brazilian winger has always been known for his pace and dribbling, but since 2024, he has become much more clinical when it comes to finishing chances. His ability to score from a variety of positions — whether cutting in from the right, getting on the end of crosses, or taking shots from distance — has made him a versatile attacking option. In the 2024-2025 season, Raphinha’s goal tally has already seen a notable increase, and with more regular chances to get into the final third, he is expected to continue improving his numbers as the season progresses.

Defensively, Raphinha has also shown improvement under Flick. The high pressing system that Barcelona employs requires wingers to contribute defensively by tracking back and pressing the opposition high up the pitch. Raphinha has embraced this responsibility, and his work rate has been one of the standout aspects of his game. His ability to win the ball back in advanced positions and disrupt opposition attacks has provided Barcelona with more control in matches, particularly in high-stakes encounters. This willingness to contribute defensively has made Raphinha even more valuable to the team, as it aligns with the overall intensity and organization that Flick demands.

As the 2025 season progresses, Barcelona fans can expect even more from Raphinha. His technical abilities, speed, and intelligence have made him a cornerstone of the team’s attacking setup, and as he continues to adapt to Flick’s tactical demands, he is likely to only improve. With Barcelona aiming for domestic and international success, Raphinha’s performances will be crucial in achieving the club’s goals. His ability to deliver match-winning moments, whether through goals, assists, or his all-around attacking play, will make him one of the most important players in the squad.

Furthermore, Raphinha’s role as a leader in Barcelona’s new generation of players is something that cannot be overlooked. With the club moving forward in a post-Messi era, young talents like Raphinha are expected to step up and take on more leadership responsibilities. His experience in top-flight football, combined with his flair and determination, make him a natural figurehead in Barcelona’s attacking line.

In conclusion, Raphinha has come a long way since joining Barcelona, and the 2025 season promises to be one of his best yet. Under Hansi Flick, Raphinha has found a system that maximizes his strengths, and his performances on the pitch have made him a key player in Barcelona’s quest for success. With his goal-scoring ability, creativity, and work rate, Raphinha is expected to play a central role in Barcelona’s ambitions both domestically and internationally. The future looks bright for the Brazilian winger, and 2025 is poised to be a defining year in his career at Barcelona.