While the young talent Lamine Yamal captures the world’s attention and is widely tipped to claim the Ballon d’Or, European football expert Andy Brassell offers a different view.
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Brassell believes Brazilian winger Raphinha is Barcelona’s most valuable asset and most important player, both on and off the pitch.
Analyzing the player’s standing at the Catalan club, Brassell told TalkSport: “Hansi Flick has been clear in saying that the player is not injured, but is simply so valuable to us that we cannot risk him. They have just extended his contract until 2030. He is their most important player, in my opinion even more so than Lamine Yamal—both on and off the pitch.”
Record-breaking numbers and exceptional performances
Raphinha’s performances are reflected in the numbers. He leads the Spanish La Liga scoring charts with an impressive 12 goals in just seven matches, in addition to scoring twice against Feyenoord in the UEFA Champions League.
His outstanding form prompted Barcelona’s management to secure his future by extending his contract until 2030.
The secret behind his scoring surge
His remarkable scoring record stems from a major tactical change introduced by head coach Hansi Flick. Raphinha was deployed centrally as a striker to compensate for Robert Lewandowski’s departure after Barcelona’s attempt to sign Julián Álvarez fell through. The Brazilian has proved highly successful in the role.
Carefully managing his fitness
Raphinha’s importance has led Flick to take a cautious approach to his fitness after the player sustained a minor thigh injury while on international duty with Brazil. Flick rested him against Getafe and left him out of the Champions League match against Galatasaray, aiming to preserve him for major El Clásico and European fixtures.
Flick reiterated: “He is a very valuable player, and we cannot risk him.”
Lamine Yamal: a seemingly endless source of energy
Meanwhile, Yamal continues to make history. After winning the World Cup with Spain, the young star has scored eight goals and provided seven assists for Barcelona this season.
Attention is now turning to October 26, when it will become clear whether he fulfills his dream of winning the Ballon d’Or and becoming the youngest player ever to receive the award, amid fierce competition from England’s Harry Kane.
