Nine La Liga goals and counting: Raphinha reveals Barcelona’s secret to scoring | OneFootball

Raphinha continued his sensational start to the season by scoring a hat-trick in Barcelona’s 7-2 demolition of Racing Santander, taking his La Liga tally to nine goals.

The Brazilian was named man of the match after another dominant attacking display, but his post-match comments showed that personal numbers remain secondary to his desire to keep improving.

“It’s always important to realise that you need to improve in some way. I’m never going to tell you that I’m doing well or that I’m at my best. 

“I always try to improve as much as I can. I’m sure I can give a bit more for the team than I’m currently giving. 

“I’m happy with the goals and the win, which is the most important thing,” said Raphinha, as per Mundo Deportivo.

Raphinha thriving as Barcelona’s centre-forward

Raphinha also made clear that he is comfortable operating through the middle, a role that has become increasingly important to Hansi Flick’s attacking plans.

Raphinha scored a hat-trick vs Racing Club. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“I’m really happy, but if the team is playing well, any player can do it. I’m happy and I’m lost for words. This team always wants to win; we’ve got a lot to achieve,” the Brazilian added.

Barcelona’s appetite for goals has been one of the defining features of their start to the campaign, and Raphinha believes that mentality is helping the team create more opportunities.

“Our mindset is that whenever we can, we have to look to score more goals and create more chances, and you can see that on the pitch. 

“We’re much better positioned to score goals, and so we’ve got everything we need to be right up there at the top,” said Raphinha.

Raphinha explains Flick bond and Yamal penalty decision

The Barcelona star also spoke warmly about his relationship with Flick, explaining how the German has influenced him since taking charge.

Raphinha spoke warmly of Hansi Flick and Lamine Yamal. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Raphinha described Flick as “the manager who changed both my mindset within the club and the way I thought about myself.”

Furthermore, He also explained why he allowed Lamine Yamal to take a penalty despite the youngster missing the opportunity.

“I think Lamine needed it at that moment in the first half. He missed it, but it’s no big deal. I might miss one too; that’s normal. Whenever I can, I’ll try to help him.

“You are a phenomenon! You’re my Ballon d’Or.

“Not just him, but Karim and Anthony as well. I know better than anyone that a striker needs his goal, and we’re doing everything we can to help him score,” concluded Raphinha.