Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick has played down speculation surrounding Raphinha’s absence from the starting lineup in the 6–0 win over Valencia on Sunday, despite multiple reports claiming the Brazilian winger was dropped for arriving late to a team session.
Raphinha, who had started Barcelona’s previous three La Liga matches, was surprisingly named on the bench at Mestalla. Summer signing Roony Bardghji took his spot in the XI and impressed with a strong display on his full debut.
The 28-year-old Raphinha was introduced at half-time and still made an impact, scoring twice to help seal a commanding victory for the reigning La Liga champions.
Reports of Timekeeping Issue
According to The Athletic and ESPN, Raphinha’s demotion was linked to a timekeeping breach. The winger is understood to have arrived late to a pre-game muscle activation session on Sunday morning, though some reports suggest it may have been a misunderstanding.
Flick has a well-known zero-tolerance stance on punctuality. Jules Koundé has previously been benched for similar reasons under the German coach.
Flick Keeps Focus on Bardghji
When questioned post-match, Flick refused to confirm the disciplinary breach and instead shifted attention to Bardghji’s promising debut.
“We’ve always only had 11 players who could start, but we have more in the squad,” Flick joked. “Bardghji started because he trains well and his attitude is really fantastic. I love what I see, and also his mentality. He always wants to learn, always wants to play with the team.”
Speaking to Movistar+, Flick added:
“We decided. Roony had trained well, was in a good frame of mind, and Raphinha was coming off a trip.”
Positive Spin Ahead of Champions League
Despite the lateness issue, there appears to be no friction between Raphinha and his manager. The Brazilian winger’s reduced minutes could even benefit Barcelona, who host Newcastle United in their Champions League opener on Wednesday.
With fresh legs and renewed focus, Raphinha is expected to return to the starting lineup as the Blaugrana continue their push for domestic and European success.
