Hansi Flick Breaks Silence on Explosive Raphinha Discipline Controversy
Barcelona's winger Raphinha is said to have been benched for Sunday's triumph against Valencia due to tardiness at a training session, though coach Hansi Flick declined to provide specific details.
Raphinha had been in the starting eleven for the last three La Liga matches this season but was unexpectedly placed among the substitutes for Sunday's encounter, with new recruit Roony Bardghji earning his spot in the first team. The Brazilian entered the match at halftime and still managed to score a brace in the commanding 6–0 triumph.
Multiple sources, including The Athletic and ESPN, indicate that Raphinha's exclusion from the starting formation was due to punctuality concerns. The 28-year-old reportedly arrived late to a pre-match muscle preparation session on Sunday morning, though some suggest this resulted from a communication error.
Despite any potential confusion regarding Raphinha's delay, Flick is recognized for maintaining strict standards regarding player punctuality. Jules Koundé has previously violated the coach's attendance policies on several instances and has consequently been excluded from starting lineups.
Obviously, there were no lingering tensions between Flick and Raphinha, as the player was still granted 45 minutes as a substitute in what proved to be an effortless win for the current La Liga titleholders.
Flick was questioned about confirming these reports following the match, but he adopted a humorous stance in his reply while directing attention to Bardghji's maiden start.
"We've consistently had only 11 players available for the starting position, but our squad contains more talent," Flick chuckled. "Bardghji earned his start through excellent training and his approach is truly remarkable. I admire what I observe and his mindset; he constantly seeks improvement, always desires to contribute with the team, and he's performed well."
In conversation with Movistar+, Flick elaborated: "We made our choice. Roony had prepared excellently, was mentally ready, and Raphinha was returning from travel."
Raphinha's tardiness might have actually benefited Barcelona, who must prepare quickly for Wednesday's Champions League debut against Newcastle United. The Brazilian star will probably return to the starting formation and will possess renewed energy following his limited appearance against Valencia.