91% and Raphinha's affirmation

The statistics this season show that Barca are significantly more effective whenever Raphinha is on the pitch.

The statistics this season show that Barca are significantly more effective whenever Raphinha is on the pitch.

Barcelona doesn't lack attacking stars. But this season, one of the most striking examples comes from the least flamboyant name: Raphinha.

Barca have lost six games since the start of the season. In five of those games, the Brazilian player was unavailable. This is no longer a simple coincidence. When Raphinha is absent, the team's attacking structure under Hansi Flick loses its balance on the right flank. The tempo slows down. The pressure on the opposing defense is also reduced.

The statistics further illustrate this point. Barca's win rate when Raphinha is playing is as high as 91%. When he's not playing, that number drops to just 60%. A difference of 31 percentage points is a huge gap for a team aiming for the highest goals.

Raphinha isn't the type of player who electrifies the crowd with flashy techniques. He brings something different: directness and intensity. Raphinha moves constantly, holding the wing and stretching the opponent's defense. His bursts of speed and runs into the penalty area create depth that Barca often lacks.

When Raphinha is fit, he's almost guaranteed a starting spot.

Barca isn't a team of one individual. But in any system, there are always links that maintain the rhythm. Raphinha is one such link. He helps the team transition faster. He creates balance between the two wings. And most importantly, the former Leeds United player maintains consistency from match to match.

Hansi Flick understands that value. When Raphinha is healthy, he's almost guaranteed a starting spot. When he's absent, Barca still have a lot of possession but lack clear breakthroughs. The team becomes easier to read.

The season is long and Barca can't rely on a single player. However, the numbers speak for themselves. With Raphinha, Barca win more, play more directly, and are more effective.

At the highest level, the difference sometimes doesn't come from brilliant moments. It comes from the consistent presence of a player that makes the entire system run smoothly. And this season, Raphinha is proving that he is an indispensable part of Barcelona's ambitions.

Source: https://znews.vn/91-va-loi-khang-dinh-cua-raphinha-post1627483.html