Former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has offered a rare and detailed insight into his relationship with Raphinha, addressing long-standing narratives about tension between the two during their time together at the club.
Speaking on Romario’s YouTube channel, Xavi reflected on several aspects of his Barcelona tenure, but his comments on Raphinha stood out given the history between player and manager.
Advertisement
Before diving into Xavi’s remarks, it is important to understand the backdrop.
Not a straightforward relationship
Raphinha himself had previously described their relationship as “strictly professional,” hinting at moments of frustration, particularly due to frequent substitutions around the hour mark.
That perception had led many to believe there was a deeper disconnect between the two. However, Xavi’s version paints a far more nuanced picture.
He began by highlighting his long-standing belief in the Brazilian, revealing that his admiration for the winger dated back to before his Barcelona days.
Explaining how strongly he pushed for the signing, Xavi said, “I was the one who signed Rafeena, and I was the one who told the club to sign him.
Advertisement
He explained that his interest in the player was not new, but something he had tracked for years.
“I even wanted to sign him when I was at Al Sadd in Qatar and he was in Portugal, but at the time he stayed in Europe.”
Xavi then detailed how, upon arriving at Barcelona, he made it clear to the club’s decision-makers that Raphinha was a priority signing.
“Later, at Barcelona, I told Jordi Cruyff and Mateu Alemany that we had to sign him because he’s a winner, he attacks deep, he’s strong in one-on-one situations, and he scores goals.”
Complete trust in Raphinha
Raphinha and Xavi did not share a great relationship. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
Advertisement
Despite the perceived tension, Xavi insisted that his trust in Raphinha never wavered and that their relationship remained positive behind the scenes.
“I’ve always had confidence in Rafa, and my relationship with him is very good.
He also addressed the key source of frustration – substitutions – offering a managerial perspective on why those decisions were necessary.
“A manager has to understand that the match depends on performance.
“If you’re not performing well, I have to bring on another player, and we had players capable of making a difference.”
Xavi then revealed a personal moment that showed his approach to handling the situation, recalling a direct conversation with the winger during a difficult phase.
Advertisement
“I remember a very good conversation with Rafinha in training when he was feeling frustrated.
“I said to him: “Rafa, you’ve signed here for five years, calm down… We trust you. Calm down, be yourself.’
“I know the substitutions weren’t helping him mentally, but now he’s really come into his own.”
Concluding his reflection, Xavi expressed satisfaction at Raphinha’s development and current standing at the club.
“I’m happy that Raphinha has exploded at Barcelona. We gave him so much support. He’s a good guy, a winner, responsible, and a leader,” he said.
Read the full article here