Raphinha talks Lamine, Gavi, Lewandowski, Xavi, El Clasico | OneFootball

Raphinha not only comes off as one of Barcelona’s most important players on the field but also as one of the team’s most vocal leaders in games.

No player, by some distance, has an influence even remotely close to what the Brazilian has on the team, and it is clear that Barcelona players are far better, direct and more intense with him on the field.

Raphinha missed the team’s clash against Albacete through a niggle and is said to be ruled out to face Mallorca as well, but his setback is minor, and he will soon be back in action for the Catalans.

The captain’s interview

Speaking to SofaScore in a recent interview, the Brazilian forward debunked the stories of Yamal constantly going to parties and revealed the truth of the teenager’s lifestyle behind the scenes.

“Lamine is always on the phone. Always on TikTok, WhatsApp, Instagram, music, and he puts headphones in his ears.”

“In the morning, he’s always sleepy because I think he sleeps late. He doesn’t go to parties, but because of how much he uses his phone, he sleeps late,” he added.

The captain then revealed information about Gavi, who is closer than ever to a return, about how he is behind the scenes.

“Gavi always forgets everything: the passport, the headphones, the bag. We always have to stop to look for his stuff.”

Raphinha is currently recovering from a minor injury. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

“Usually, the equipment staff search the locker room and find something of his. On the bus, I sit in the back seats, and when getting off, I check the seats to see if he forgot anything,” he added.

There was also praise for Robert Lewandowski, as Raphinha said: “Yes, a good guy. Not only that, but he also has a hunger for victory, for achievements. He’s incredible despite his age. He’s someone who works very hard to be at his best.”

When asked who the most difficult opponents he has faced in training are, he named one each from his national team and from Barcelona.

“Casemiro and [Ronald] Araujo.”

Talking about his relationship with former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez and whether he would consider the club legend a friend, Raphinha said:

“No, not really. It was a strictly professional relationship. I only knew him as my manager. A normal player-manager relationship.”

Finally, Raphinha spoke on the Clasico in the Spanish Super Cup and how he did not bury his chances on the night, vowing to come back stronger. 

“In the Clasico, I had a chance to score a hat-trick but I missed it, it will happen next time.”