Amid rumors of an impending exit from the Camp Nou, Blaugrana boss, Xavi, has maintained that Raphinha will be “very important” for Barcelona’s future.
Since joining the La Liga giants from Leeds United in the summer for a reported fee of £55m, Raphinha has had difficulty settling in.
The Brazil international made an excellent first impression during preseason by scoring the lone goal against El Clasico rivals Real Madrid in Las Vegas. Raphinha, though, has struggled to maintain his preseason form, prompting doubts about his Barcelona future.
He has only started two of Barcelona’s past seven La Liga games, and has contributed to four goals and seven assists for the Spanish powerhouses overall this season.
Trending Stories: Watch New Burnley Hilarious Announcement Video Featuring Messi And Ronaldo
Meanwhile, after lifting the Supercopa de Espana following a 3-1 victory over Real Madrid earlier this month, Raphinha announced his desire to win more trophies with the club.
Xavi has now added to the notion that Raphinha is at Barca for the long-run by quashing any rumours that the 26-year-old is set to leave the Camp Nou in the imminent future.
“Raphinha will be important for us, I have no doubts on that,” Xavi said (via Fabrizio Romano). “Rafa will be very important as I have great confidence in him for Barcelona’s future.”
Xavi on Raphinha’s future: “Raphinha will be important for us, I’ve no doubts on that” 🔵🔴🇧🇷 #FCB
“Rafa will be very important as I have great confidence in him for Barcelona’s future”. pic.twitter.com/S4QFJJh9md
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 26, 2023
COMMENTS