Barcelona manager Xavi has claimed that Raphinha is the "future" of the club despite the former Leeds United star coming under serious criticism during his time in Spain.
Since leaving Elland Road last summer, it is safe to say that Raphinha has had a tough start to life as a Barcelona player. The Brazilian has scored three goals in 18 La Liga appearances for his new club and has started less than half of their top-flight matches this term.
Despite only arriving at the Nou Camp last summer, Raphinha's future at the club has already been called into question - with reports even linking him with a move back to the Premier League to join Manchester United. However, Xavi has now leapt to the defence of his forward after he broke the deadlock in Barcelona's 2-1 win over Real Betis on Wednesday night.
Raphinha found the back of the net in the 65th minute for just the third time this season, as Robert Lewandowski also got on the scoresheet to see Barcelona move eight points clear of Real Madrid at the top of the table. Despite his general struggle in Europe this campaign, Xavi took the opportunity after the match to heap praise on the 26-year-old.
"[Raphinha] has been good, not only for his goal, but also with his defensive work. He’s a criticised player, but he does a lot and we value him a lot," the Barca boss told reporters.
When pressed on speculation over Raphinha's future, he added: "We will always support Raphinha. He’s the future of Barcelona."
Xavi's praise for the Barcelona star's defensive work would have no doubt brought a wry smile to Bielsa's face. Raphinha, who played under the legendary Argentine manager, experienced first-hand how important it is for attacking players to contribute defensively thorugh pressing, counter-pressing, tracking back and working hard when out of possession.
The trait that the former Leeds man has taken with him to Spain appears to have stood him in good stead and may well have bought him the time and patience from Xavi that he might not have been afforded during what has been a barren spell in front of goal.
Having been dubbed by many as a 'flop' less than a month ago, Raphinha will have been delighted to hear the praise from his manager as he looks to find the kind of form that he showed on so many occasions at Elland Road.
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