Barcelona head into their UEFA Champions League clash with Chelsea with renewed energy, boosted by the return of Raphinha, who has been sidelined for two months due to injury.
Softfootball earlier reported that the Brazilian winger was out for a prolonged period but made his comeback just before Barcelona’s last La Liga game against Athletic Bilbao, giving the team a key boost ahead of Europe’s premier competition.
The Catalan giants will face a Chelsea side eager to assert themselves in the league Phase, and Raphinha knows the challenge that awaits at Stamford Bridge. With both teams boasting some of Europe’s most talented young squads, tomorrow’s match promises to be a high-intensity encounter filled with tactical battles and moments of individual brilliance.
For Raphinha, returning to action after a lengthy absence is about more than just regaining match fitness, it is about reintegrating into a team chasing big ambitions in the Champions League.
Speaking ahead of the game during the press conference posted via Barcelona’s official YouTube page, the winger opened up about his recovery, his mindset, and his expectations for the season.
On returning to Stamford Bridge, a stadium where he has previously found the net, Raphinha said:
Being able to play in this stadium again is special, I love it. I managed to score here before, and I hope to do it again tomorrow. If I play, I’ll give my best.
Speaking about his approach within the team, he added:
I think sometimes I’m the annoying one in the team… I demand that we press all the time. I try to help everyone, and if I give my best, then I can demand the same from the rest.
Reflecting on the difficulty of returning after a long injury layoff, he noted:
Coming back after two months without playing is difficult; I need a bit of match rhythm. I hope to return as soon as possible to the level people expect from me.
On missing his teammates during his absence, he said:
In these months, I’ve missed the team more than they missed me.
Turning to individual recognition, Raphinha expressed his perspective on awards:
YES, I do think I deserved MORE recognition in individual awards, yes. I control what I do on the pitch. I’m sure I had a spectacular season, and for me that’s enough.
Looking ahead to the Champions League, he highlighted Barcelona’s growth and ambition:
This year I see the team more mature than last season. We will do everything possible to reach the final and win it.
Taking responsibility for his injury setbacks, Raphinha admitted:
I take RESPONSIBILITY for both the relapses I suffered in my injury. The first was partly my fault, and I think the second was too. I wanted to be back on the pitch as soon as possible to help the team. I made a bit of a mistake, and that’s why I had those two setbacks.
Asked about the voting for individual awards, he clarified:
You journalists should be giving me the explanation… I did what I had to do. When other people are the ones voting, they’re the ones who have to explain it. But I don’t demand anything from anyone. I’ll keep doing my best, and that’s it.
On his decision to join Barcelona despite interest from other clubs, he revealed:
Ever since my last match with Leeds, I knew there was a chance to wear the Barcelona shirt. I also knew Chelsea were interested, but I had a dream I needed to fulfil, and I gave 100% to make it happen. I SHUT my eyes to the other clubs that wanted me. I had a dream, and I did everything I could to play for Barcelona.
With Raphinha back in action and Barcelona looking stronger and more mature than ever, the stage is set for a thrilling Champions League encounter at Stamford Bridge, one that promises drama, skill, and plenty of moments for the Brazilian winger to shine.
