Raphinha talks Lamine, Estevao, Ronaldinho, fitness, Camp Nou reception – ‘That moment made me shiver’ | OneFootball

Ahead of Barcelona’s crucial Champions League clash against Chelsea, Raphinha spoke to TNT Sports about a possible timeline for a return to full fitness.

The Brazilian international, who was also present in the pre-match press conference, talked about Lamine Yamal as well as Estevao, among other things.

But first and foremost, Raphinha was asked about his fitness and when exactly he can return to full fitness.

When will Raphinha get back to full fitness?

Having been sidelined for several weeks, Raphinha admitted that rushing his recovery had complicated his return.

When asked if he could play 90 minutes, Raphinha stated, “Playing 90 minutes is still too early. I think it’s way too early. I was out for two months, right?

“Obviously, I want to play 90 minutes, but I think that injury I suffered has made me more cautious in moments like these.”

Highlighting the mistake he made earlier in his rehabilitation, the attacker added, “At the start of the injury, I tried to speed up the process a bit, and that ended up hurting me.

“It’s better to stay calm in situations like these. 90 minutes – I can’t yet, but some minutes on the pitch to help the team, yes.”

Raphinha on his defensive involvement at Barcelona

It is no secret that Barcelona have struggled defensively, interestingly even more so when Raphinha has not been a part of the team.

Raphinha himself claimed his defensive commitment is the most vital contribution he makes to the team.

Raphinha will look to make an impact against Chelsea. (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

“This is a trait in me. Since I was 15 years old, I’ve been helping in defence, running back, assisting the full-back, pressing hard on the defenders, it’s a trait I have,” he said.

“What I’m trying to do at the club and with the national team is to give my best in what I believe is my greatest strength, which is the defensive side,” he added.

The former Leeds United winger went on to explain in detail how it is important to help out the team defensively.

“It’s clear that the attacking side comes more naturally, but I try not to lose the defensive side and to pass it on to the younger kids, and even to players with more experience, because it’s a very important part today in football.

“Having a strong defensive side, even if you’re an attacker, benefits the team and the national team as well. And with these traits I have, I have everything to help on the pitch,” he pointed out.

Raphinha on Lamine Yamal and Estevao

Addressing the buzz around Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Chelsea’s Estevao, Raphinha refused to pit the two talents against each other, though he praised both players equally.

“I don’t like comparing players, not players of today, nor players of the past, nor even retired ones. I don’t like comparisons because I believe that every player and every person has their own way in life and in football as well,” he said.

“So personally, I don’t like making comparisons. What I can tell you is that they are phenomena in football, and if they have a good mentality and great focus, they have everything to reach the top for many years,” he added.

Raphinha did acknowledge the maturity shown by both Lamine Yamal and Estevao at such a young age. “Estevao and Lamine are kids compared to us.. Don’t remind me!”

Heading into the Chelsea game, Raphinha admitted that both players will be tightly marked by opposing defences.

“There will probably be individual marking on Lamine, and there should also be individual marking on Estevao. Both will need individual marking from both sides because they are phenomena, in my opinion,” he said.

“They are two kids who possess incredible talent, something extraordinary, and they are still in the process of development. I think they have a lot to grow in within football and also on the human level, but the talent they possess is something supernatural.

“To be able to enjoy a match with two players of this quality, one from each team, that will be a unique moment,” he added.

Raphinha on giving tribute to Ronaldinho

Asked about his role model, Ronaldinho’s famous goal against Chelsea in the same stadium, and if he would perform a celebratory dance, Raphinha offered a coy response.

“If I play, because the decision is the coach’s, I’ll be ready to play for whatever time is needed, and if I’m on the pitch, I’ll give my all to help the team, and if I score a goal, it’ll be amazing,” he said.

Can Raphinha stun the Stamford Bridge crowd? (Photo by Andrew Redington/Getty Images)

On the all-important question: “We’ll see, it depends on the cold. It depends on the cold!“

Unfortunately, given Raphinha’s fitness situation, it is unlikely the Brazilian will start against Chelsea. But he could certainly make an appearance late in the second half.

Raphinha on Camp Nou return

Finally, Raphinha reflected on his return to the iconic Camp Nou. Raphinha was clearly moved by the reception from the Barça faithful, who gave him an ovation.

“I’ll tell you it was something extremely surprising, something very moving. If I told you I wasn’t expecting applause… no, I was expecting it, but not in the way it happened,” he said.

“I think it was from the moment I stood up from the bench to start warming up, the crowd began to clap, and that was so special.

“That moment made me shiver all over during the warm-up, then when I entered the pitch and saw almost the entire stadium clapping and chanting my name,” he added.

“It was something I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life, it was something so very special,” he concluded.