€50m Barcelona star could attempt what Vinicius Jr failed to do with Brazil | OneFootball

Not every FC Barcelona player ends up getting the opportunity to lead their country in a significant way. It is one thing for a player to establish themselves as a regular at club level, and an entirety different struggle to find continuity at the international stage. Fortunately for Barcelona, most of their key players are also essential for their countries.

However, there is still a clear difference between being a regular player for their nation and an indisputable leader and focal point for the team. Neymar Jr, Lionel Messi, Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, and many former Barcelona greats have achieved that honor, but some players in this new-look Barcelona team are yet to earn it.

One player who could soon do so and earn that right, however, could be 27-year-old forward Raphinha. Previously seen as an inconsistent player for both club and country, he has now completely turned his career around with his in-form displays so far this season under Hansi Flick.

Moreover, as highlighted by SPORT, he now has the opportunity to take that form to the international stage for Brazil’s crucial upcoming games. Against Peru and against Chile in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, the South American team cannot afford any more mistakes if they hope to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Previously, when Raphinha was unable to make it to the last national team camp, the role of playing as the team’s focal point and primary leader was given to Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. Ultimately, he was unable to live up to the expectations and the Brazilian side crumbled to an embarrassing 1-0 defeat in the game against Paraguay that Raphinha was not called up for.

Now, however, it is almost an opposite occurrence with Raphinha available and Vinicius Jr being sidelined. However, this is the €50 million-rated Barcelona star’s chance to show his worth to his country and prove that he has what it takes to at least contribute something special in the absence of both Neymar Jr and Vinicius as well.

With six goals and five assists in 11 games so far this season across all competitions, Raphinha is now expected to lead Brazil in their upcoming games. For his nation, these games could be crucial and it is now upto him to prove his value beyond just club level.