The home crowd in attendance at Barcelona’s meeting with Deportivo Alavés on Saturday were sure to make known their appreciation for the efforts of the returning Raphinha.
This comes after the Brazilian played a starring role in what, at present, looks set to mark a return to winning ways for the Blaugrana.
Fresh off a 3-0 drubbing at the hands of Chelsea in the Champions League in midweek, Hansi Flick’s troops this evening turned focus back towards matters on the domestic front, in a La Liga clash with Alavés.
Wide-man Raphinha returned to a starting role for the first time in two months for the fixture, from his customary berth on the left wing.
And the former Leeds United man wasted little time in providing a reminder of exactly why he is considered such a key figure in Barcelona’s squad.
After the Catalans fell into an early hole, Raphinha masterminded his side’s comeback, laying on goals for both Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo.
On top of as much, the 28-year-old showcased the kind of dynamism and drive which had far too often been lacking during his injury-enforced absence.
Upon Raphinha’s jersey number flashing across the 4th official’s board during the 2nd-half, confirming that his contributions for the evening had come to an end, the Barca faithful in attendance at the Camp Nou therefore rose to their feet as one, to provide the Brazilian international with a well-earned standing ovation.
Conor Laird – GSFN
