How the return of Barcelona captain has restored confidence and overall performance | OneFootball

Raphinha’s influence in the current Barcelona setup is no longer up for debate. 

While the team managed to collect results during his absence earlier in the season, his return to the starting XI has clearly altered the rhythm, balance, and intensity of the side. 

The Brazilian winger has brought back elements that were quietly missing, particularly in pressing, transitions, and collective effort without the ball.

In the weeks Raphinha spent sidelined through injury, Barcelona continued to win, but there was a noticeable drop in the sharpness of the frontline press. 

Certain attacking movements looked slower, and the overall aggression that defined last season’s best performances was reduced. 

As such, the structure was still there, but the edge was not.

A lot has changed

Since his return, the contrast has been striking, and Barcelona’s results tell part of the story, with eight wins and just one defeat since he came back into the squad. 

More tellingly, when Raphinha has started, the record is perfect – five wins from five games, with the forward scoring four goals and one assist.

Raphiniha was decisive against Villarreal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Now, it would be unfair to criticise Marcus Rashford, who performed well during Raphinha’s absence. 

However, the Brazilian offers something different. Defensively, he is more intense. Tactically, he is more disciplined. And emotionally, he brings an edge that lifts the collective effort.

Strong performance vs Villarreal

The recent clash against Villarreal was a perfect example. Raphinha played with one gear more than everyone else. 

He was aggressive in transitions, relentless in duels, and constantly driving the team forward. He pressed, chased, recovered, and fought every battle as if it were the last.

His influence was decisive in the opening goal and from that moment on, he never stopped. 

This version of Raphinha is one of the main reasons why the mood around Barcelona has shifted so quickly. 

In just one month, the performances feel more complete and the team arguably looks more connected.