And during the match, the Brazilian international made it clear that the team can come back against Atlético de Madrid in the semifinals of the Copa del Rey.
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The 4-0 defeat at the Metropolitano in the first leg of the Copa del Rey semi-finals against Atleti hit the blaugrana tough, dealing a blow to hopes of defending the cup.
Even so, within the Barcelona locker room there is still the belief that they can achieve great success. comeback in the second leg at the Spotify Camp Nou next week.
“We trust that we can play a great game. We believe that we are capable of doing so. If there is a team that can come back, it is us.” Raphinha said confidently.
“We know it will be difficult, a very complicated comeback, but I think we are prepared for what is coming.”
Now in his fourth season at the club, Raphinha has become one of the leaders of the dressing room. He noted that team spirit is one of the key reasons behind Hansi Flick’s good performances over the past two seasons.
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“The locker room is fantastic. The players get along very well. We are like a family. We spend more time together than with our real families, on trips and training.” he stated.
Raphinha is confident of a comeback against Atlético. (Photo by Pedro Salado/Getty Images)
“There’s a genuine friendship here and I think a big part of our success comes from that.” added the Brazilian.
Wearing the captain’s armband for the second season, he did not hide his pride and said:
“Being one of the captains of Barça means a lot. Since I arrived, I have tried to help as much as I can. Being captain of Barça happens to very few players. It is an enormous privilege. I would not have imagined it even in my wildest dreams.”
After enjoying a dream last season, when he was directly involved in 60 goals and barely missed a game, Raphinha has faced a tougher year this time around.
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Injuries and physical problems have kept him out of action for 13 games and he was also a substitute on two occasions.
“I’ve been through tough times. Players hate injuries because we can’t do what we love. They’re very mentally demanding. Sometimes you can’t even explain why you got injured. It’s a very tough time.” he admitted.
Still, he sent a reassuring message to fans, saying: “I feel in very good shape, mentally and physically. I’m trying to get back to my best level after the injury.
“It’s never easy to be 100% right away. But mentally I feel very good and physically I’m getting closer to my best version.”