Raphinha makes feelings clear on his new Barcelona position: “I’m not surprised” | OneFootball

The forward Raphinha has remained a key part of Hansi Flick’s plans ever since the German coach took over at FC Barcelona. However, he has started this new season in a particularly blazing fashion, having already scored 11 goals in seven games played so far.

Although there has never been any doubt about his ability, the fact that he has played at such a high level despite playing in a new position for his team, as a center-forward, makes his achievements even more praiseworthy.

As Mundo Deportivo has reported, the Brazilian forward recently appeared in an interview with the RAC1 program Tu Diras, and, among other things, talked about his shift in position. Raphinha assured that he himself is not surprised by his incredible performance at the start of this season:

“I expected to get off to a good start. They are numbers that can be frightening, but given the work I had been doing, they were achievable. No, I’m not surprised, although I am surprised to be playing as a centre-forward. I’m also surprised by how comfortable I feel.”

Still, the Brazilian also jokingly acknowledged how difficult it could be to play as a center-forward:

“Playing with your back to the centre-backs is difficult because they give you a few kicks.”

While not surprised with his performance, the forward was surprised by his ability to play as a center-forward:

“I can adapt to whatever position I play in; you have to have the right mentality… It seems I’m a better striker than a winger, and I didn’t know it.”

The Brazilian revealed one of his reservations when Hansi Flick asked him to play as a center-forward following Robert Lewandowski’s departure:

“I had doubts because people ‘hold you accountable’ for the goals you score.”

With this excellent start to the season, Raphinha matches Lionel Messi with 11 goals in seven games, and expressed his surprise on this achievement:

“It seems crazy. You end up surpassing the best player in history and in the world.”

There is no doubt that this has been an exceptional start to the new season for Raphinha, and if he maintains his current form, Barcelona can go on to win all the big trophies. However, he will be facing significantly tougher tests as the season advances, but hopefully, he will be able to continue with his goalscoring form even against the bigger sides.