Is He Barcelona’s New No. 9? Hansi Flick Knows What Makes Raphinha Special

Hansi Flick once again backed Raphinha after Barcelona’s victory over Athletic Club, making it clear that his position matters less than his intensity, commitment, and performance on the pitch.

Flick Makes It Clear What He Expects From Raphinha at Barcelona

Hansi Flick once again publicly backed Raphinha after Barcelona’s 2-0 victory over Athletic Club, in a match where the Brazilian once again emerged as one of the Blaugrana side’s main attacking threats.

However, for Flick, discussing whether Raphinha is a winger, a second striker, or a No. 9 seems less important than analyzing everything the player brings when he is on the pitch. “It doesn’t matter where Raphinha plays; for me, it’s more about what he shows on the pitch,” the German coach explained after the match.

According to the comments made after the game, Flick believes the Brazilian’s dynamism fits the team’s attacking approach.

Raphinha Turns the No. 9 Uncertainty Into an Opportunity

Raphinha’s role as a center forward appears to be an alternative that is working. The Brazilian scored in the league opener against Elche and found the back of the net again against Athletic Club.

As a result, Raphinha has scored three goals in LaLiga’s opening two matchdays, a figure that is difficult to overlook as Flick continues looking for the best attacking setup for his team.

The German coach also stopped short of committing to Raphinha permanently occupying the No. 9 position. His priority, as he explained, is for the collective plan to work regardless of which player ultimately occupies that area.

Against Athletic Club, the Brazilian found the space he needed to open the scoring and put Barcelona ahead before Fermín López sealed the victory.

The Captain Is Also Taking on a Bigger Role in the Dressing Room

Flick also highlighted the role the Brazilian is taking on as Barcelona captain, particularly because of the commitment he has shown to the team.

The coach said the forward has demonstrated “total commitment” to the club and his teammates, something he considers especially important at this stage of the season.

Flick also highlighted the connection between Raphinha and the fans. The support from the stands for the player has become another positive element for the coach, who believes that relationship can benefit the team.

Flick Also Highlights Rodri and Xavi Espart

The post-match press conference also focused on two other Barcelona players: Rodri and Xavi Espart.

Flick was particularly pleased with Rodri’s debut, saying that, in his view, the midfielder fits “perfectly” with Barcelona’s philosophy and style of play. His arrival represents an important addition to the midfield, bringing experience and technical quality to the squad.

The coach was also surprised by Xavi Espart’s performance, as the youngster made his second consecutive start at left-back.

All of this comes as Barcelona have secured two consecutive LaLiga victories and are beginning to show positive signs in their overall play.