The reasons for Raphinha being unexpectedly dropped by Barcelona for their La Liga clash with Valencia have been revealed. Hansi Flick removed the Brazilian forward from his starting XI, with the South American - who fills the captain’s armband for the Blaugrana - being punished for off-field misdemeanours that left his demanding German coach frustrated.
Barcelona ran riot against Valencia as they defeated their domestic rivals 6-0 in La Liga on Sunday. Coach Hansi Flick praised the team's performance, highlighting winger Roony Bardghji's mentality as he dropped Raphinha and gave the Swedish winger a start ahead of Raphinha, who was reportedly dropped as a disciplinary measure after arriving late for a pre-match activation session.
Fermin Lopez stole the day while Raphinha and Robert Lewandoswki struck a devastating brace off the bench each to brush aside Valencia 6-0, as Barcelona returned to winning ways in La Liga. La Blaugrana put on a true five-star display as the visitors were put to the sword.
Barcelona star Raphinha has appeared to accuse Disneyland of racism after a mascot allegedly ignored his son while hugging "all the white children".
Mallorca had two players sent off in the first half as Raphinha, Ferran and Yamal all scored to give Barca a comfortable win on Saturday.
Marcus Rashford left Raphinha stunned as he missed the chance tap into an open goal during a friendly against Como. The 27-year-old forward, who arrived at the Nou Camp on loan from Manchester United this summer with an option for a permanent deal, was handed a golden chance to pad the scoreline. Instead, he somehow contrived to miss an empty net in front of a stunned crowd.
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Raphinha has welcomed Marcus Rashford to Barcelona with a firm message, warning the Manchester United loanee about the fierce competition for places at the club. The Brazilian insists that increased rivalry in the squad will only push players to improve as Barca look to compete for major trophies again this season after their great debut season under Hansi Flick.
Raphinha provided his thoughts on becoming one the Barcelona captain and opined on whether Marc-Andre ter Stegen should get to keep the armband.
