Relentless Raphinha shows Barcelona that the way forward is with intensity

"Raphinha recorded two assists to give Barcelona the equalizer and the game winner after surrendering an early goal. Beyond the stat sheet, however, the captain made his team better by leading by example showing an energy and determination to win every ball and out work the opposition. As a result, Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo were given more opportunities to show their qualities, and recorded three goals and an assist between them."

"Raphinha said himself: "I often say that the best defense starts with a good attack. It's crucial that we help the defense with pressure. I try to make it easier for our defenders and more difficult for the opponent. I try to press and take away space from the other team's center-backs so we can have the ball. It's good when the team presses behind me like that, but I often do it without thinking. I just run to try and win the ball back as quickly as possible.""

"For Hansi Flick's system to work, Raphinha has proven to be the one player who is truly indispensable. By leading the defensive effort of the forward line, everything else is able to click into place. His efforts become a contagion, with the rest of the forwards and midfielders following his lead and giving decisive efforts as well. As Hansi Flick said after the game, "When Raphinha presses, everyone is ready to do it too. He has a lot of dynamism.""

Raphinha provided two assists that produced an equalizer and the game winner after an early concession. He led by example with relentless energy and a determination to win every ball and outwork opponents. His pressing created space and opportunities for teammates Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo, who combined for three goals and an assist. Raphinha's defensive work from the front is central to Hansi Flick's system, prompting collective pressing and decisive efforts across the forward line and midfield. Barcelona showed vulnerabilities against Alavés and should have scored more, but sustained pressing promises greater ruthlessness in attack.

Read at Barca Blaugranes