CORNERFLICK
Raphinha is currently one of the most influential players in world football — for Barça, in La Liga, across Europe and on the global stage. He has scored an astonishing 12 goals in seven league matches, adding another two in the Champions League. His numbers are historic, and when it comes to his current form and outstanding performances, there is one man he credits more than anyone else: Hansi Flick. And it is not simply because the German coach discovered a new role for him as a false nine.
The 29-year-old Brazil international is enjoying the finest spell of his career. It is the result of his quality, hard work, daily sacrifices and, above all, Flick's influence — and not merely in terms of tactical or footballing instruction. The key to the former Leeds player's success lies in the confidence Flick has instilled in him. He convinced Raphinha to believe in his talent, ability, leadership and importance. That process began three seasons ago, when the German took charge of Barça.
Barcelona signed Raphinha from Leeds in the summer of 2022, during Xavi's tenure, in a deal worth around €55 million. He produced impressive numbers in his first two seasons, making 87 appearances, scoring 20 goals and providing 25 assists. However, in the summer of 2024, he considered leaving the Catalan club after receiving significant financial offers, while he had yet to establish the influence within the team and dressing room that he enjoys today.
Then Barça appointed Flick, and the German coach sat down with Raphinha. Flick made clear his trust and belief in the player and his abilities, telling him that he would not only be important to the team, but that the team actually needed him.
At the end of the 2024–25 season, Raphinha said: “Before the season had even started, I was on my way out of the club. The coach played a very important role in changing my mind and convincing me to stay. He gave me confidence and changed everything for me.”
Flick quickly realised that Raphinha needed to feel valued. He therefore made it a priority to strengthen the Brazilian international's self-belief, boosting his confidence and demonstrating his faith in the player's quality through his decisions — including putting him in the starting XI from the outset and maintaining regular communication with him.
After scoring 10 goals per season under Xavi, Raphinha exploded to 32 goals in his first campaign working with Flick. His playing time was reduced during the 2025–26 season because of various injuries, but the German coach continued working closely with the Brazilian. He never stopped encouraging Raphinha, believing in him or investing in his talent.
The Captaincy: The Ultimate Motivation
Last summer, Flick gave Raphinha another major boost with two decisions that once again demonstrated his complete faith in the Brazilian. He assured Raphinha that he saw him as a false nine, believing that his quality and work rate allowed him to play in virtually any position. Flick also handed him the captain's armband, elevating Raphinha's status at every level.
The German coach identified two dressing-room leaders, backing Raphinha and Pedri, while the squad selected three other representatives: Frenkie de Jong, Eric García and Lamine Yamal. The Barça coach gave Raphinha a leadership role and cemented his status as one of the team's leading stars. Never before had the Brazilian felt so valued, respected or important.
The success of Flick's work is there for everyone to see. Raphinha has already scored 14 goals and provided three assists in eight matches this season. He has registered three braces as well as back-to-back hat-tricks.
Under the German coach, Raphinha has shattered record after record and is now so happy at Barcelona that he not only turned down lucrative offers during the summer, but is also set to extend his contract until 2030.
Flick has given Raphinha back what he deserved.