Barcelona star Raphinha has this week provided an insight into just how strong an impact manager Hansi Flick has had on his life on and off the pitch alike.
Frontman Raphinha has of course spent the early weeks of the new campaign establishing himself as arguably the most in-form player in world football.
Afforded both the responsibility of the captain’s armband and a new position at centre-forward, the Brazilian has responded with a string of sensational individual performances.
All told, in eight appearances between La Liga and the Champions League, Raphinha has directly contributed to 17 goals.
Such remarkable form can be attributed to a whole host of factors, with the sheer will and determination of the 29-year-old to improve as a player having been key.
But as alluded to above, Raphinha is himself of the opinion that there was no bigger influence on his explosion into the superstar of today than Hansi Flick. Speaking during an appearance in front of the media (as cited by journalist Fabrizio Romano) this week, the former Leeds United man admitted:
“Hansi Flick is the coach who changed my life. I will always say it. He is the person who changed my mentality, both at the club and as a person.
“When a coach gives you confidence, you only need a few words. I immediately felt that he completely trusted me.”
Conor Laird – GSFN
