"Best player itw", "Playing like peak Ronaldinho" - Fans hail Barcelona superstar after showing in 3-0 win over Alaves
Fans on social media were impressed with Raphinha's performance in Barcelona's 3-0 win over Alaves in La Liga on Sunday (October 6). The Brazilian winger has been in sensational form this season, recording six goals and six assists in 11 games for the Catalan club across competitions.
In Sunday's game against Alaves, Raphinha assisted the first two goals scored by Robert Lewandowski, proving to be instrumental in Barcelona securing three crucial league points.
In the seventh minute, Raphinha's free-kick from the right flank was tapped into Alaves' net by the Polish striker. The Brazilian's second assist came in the 22nd minute, when he dribbled across the pitch into the penalty box, before delivering a well-timed pass for Lewandowski.
The Pole completed his hit-trick in the 32nd minute, courtesy of an Eric Garcia assist.
Culers took to X to appreciate Raphinha's impressive performance vs Alaves, with many comparing him to former Barcelona legends such as Ronaldinho and Neymar. One X user wrote:
"Raphinha is playing like peak Ronaldinho in this match, 70mins and he's still going strong."
"You see Raphinha, I see Ronaldinho," another fan agreed.
"I never watched Ronaldinho live since I was very young that time, but I can proudly tell my kids I proudly saw Neymar,Coutinho and Raphinha play live," another netizen joined.
"Two more seasons under Hansi Flick and Raphinha will surpass Neymar’s legacy at Barcelona," a user added.
Fans continued to praise the Brazilian for his incredible form, with one writing:
"Raphinha been the best player itw this season lmao."
"Raphinha is entering “best in the world” convos at this point," another netizen chimed in.
"Raphinha has been transformed this season. More G/A this season than Vini Jr and he’s become sort of like our Ronaldinho. Flick has made Raphinha into a beast and one of the best players in the world, just like he’s done for Lewandowski," a fan opined.
"Raphinha is different level man. I was so wrong about him last season. I’m sorry man," a Culer commented.
In 90 minutes against Alaves, Raphinha made five key passes and created two big chances, alongside maintaining a 86% passing accuracy.
"I'm very happy with him" - Barcelona coach Hansi Flick on Raphinha's performance in 3-0 win over Alaves
In the post-match press conference, Barcelona boss Hansi Flick praised Raphinha for his impressive performance vs Alaves. The German tactician said (via Barca Universal):
"Raphinha is a leader. I think that's the great thing for him. He's important for us in his position. His movement is dynamic, but I think he can improve. When he scores goals, he always wants to score more. I'm very happy with him, he's unbelievable."
Flick also appreciated the Brazilian's attitude on the pitch. The coach also explained that the dynamic between his players is great, which helps in boosting the team's spirit.
Barcelona will next face Sevilla in La Liga on October 20, before moving to their clash against Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League league phase on October 23.