Barcelona manager Hansi Flick delivered a passionate message to his squad ahead of their crucial clash against Atletico Madrid, urging them to secure victory in honour of Raphinha.
According to Toni Juanmarti of SPORT, Flick’s words were clear: “We have to win to avenge your teammate Raphinha.”
The motivation behind Flick’s stirring statement was rooted in the struggles Raphinha endured following Brazil’s humiliating 4-1 defeat to Argentina during the recent international break.
The Brazilian winger returned to Barcelona not only physically drained but also emotionally scarred from the heavy loss against their arch-rivals.
Raphinha endured plenty of suffering
It is said that Raphinha’s troubles went beyond the scoreboard. He had to endure relentless taunting from the Argentine players, a humiliation that left him mentally shattered.
The emotional toll was compounded by physical strain, particularly muscle fatigue, and an injury to his hand—a consequence of an incident triggered by frustration over the defeat.
Flick asked his players to beat Atletico Madrid for Raphinha. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Flick, who knows how beloved Raphinha is within the Barcelona dressing room, seized upon that unity to motivate his players.
His message was aimed at exacting revenge against Atletico Madrid, a side with several Argentine internationals who had played a role in Brazil’s downfall.
Raphinha’s sportsmanship
Barcelona responded to their manager’s call admirably, overcoming Atletico Madrid. But the most remarkable moment came after the final whistle.
Despite the bitterness and anguish from the international fixture, Raphinha chose to rise above it all.
As Barcelona celebrated their triumph, the Brazilian forward demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship by seeking out Rodrigo De Paul and exchanging shirts with him. The gesture was a powerful display of maturity and fair play.
For Barcelona, the victory meant more than just progressing in the Copa del Rey final. It was also a testament to their unity, resilience, and capacity to overcome personal and collective setbacks.
For Raphinha, it was a moment of redemption and reconciliation—proof that football’s true beauty lies in its ability to heal, inspire, and bring people together.