‘He’s a Ballon d’Or candidate’… Brazil coach heaps praise on Barcelona forward | OneFootball

The top stars at FC Barcelona have risen up to the occasion this season and have delivered some big performances. While Hansi Flick’s arrival has undoubtedly been influential, even the players have needed to step up. Fortunately for the Barcelona coach, his players have responded quite positively so far.

There was perhaps no better example of this than the most recent game against SL Benfica. Despite receiving a red card early on in the game, La Blaugrana managed to emerge victorious by the end. While Wojciech Szczesny’s big performance was undoubtedly the primary factor behind the win, it was ultimately Raphinha’s goal that gave Barça the win.

Now, as his selection from Brazil’s upcoming international games has been officially confirmed, even his National team coach could not help but praise the player. As highlighted by SPORT, Brazil coach Dorival Junior did not hold back the praise either as he made it clear that Raphinha is now a proper Ballon d’Or contender this season:

“Raphinha faced heavy criticism after the Copa América, and now he’s a Ballon d’Or candidate.”

A leader for both Barcelona and the Brazilian National team, Raphinha has stood out in the absence of Neymar Jr and the underwhelming international presence of Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. For Raphinha, however, the leadership role is one that seems to come naturally.

With 25 goals and 18 assists so far this season, Raphinha is having his best campaign by far. Having already surpassed even Vinicius Jr’s best ever season, the Barcelona forward is a proper contender for the Ballon d’Or moving forward this year.

For Brazil’s coach, however, there is more value to what Raphinha offers than just the goals. A versatile player, he is one who offers the ability to play in any position or any role wherever and whenever the coach needs him to do so:

“He is a highly versatile player who adapts well to any role. With us, he has played as a winger on both flanks, as a second striker supporting Igor Jesus, and even as a full-back when needed. He is an extremely dynamic player.”

With World Cup qualifiers coming up ahead for Brazil later this month, Raphinha’s presence will be crucial for his country. Until then, however, Barcelona also needs their forward to be in top shape and help them get through some massively important fixtures.