The secret figure behind Raphinha’s remarkable Barcelona form | OneFootball

A background insight into the stellar opening to the campaign being enjoyed by Barcelona star Raphinha has on Wednesday been provided.

The info comes courtesy of Relevo, and points towards something of a secret figure as playing a leading role in the Brazilian’s ongoing excellence.

Raphinha of course enjoyed his latest outing to remember last night.

Afforded a starting berth in Barcelona’s La Liga meeting with RCD Mallorca, the former Leeds United man notched a brace, scooping Man of the Match honours en route to a 5-1 triumph.

All told, as much means that Raphinha has now racked up 26 direct goal contributions in 21 appearances in 2024/25.

As much marks a major uptick in production for the 27-year-old, when compared to seasons gone by.

So, what is behind this remarkable improvement on Raphinha’s part?

The new direct system introduced by boss Hansi Flick has certainly played a part, with the winger thriving in the spaces to have been opened in Barca’s frontline.

Another less-known factor, though, comes behind the scenes.

As revealed by Relevo:

‘This summer he decided to change his personal fitness trainer. Raphinha put himself in the hands of a fellow countryman, Bruno Oliveira, to carry out work focused on injury prevention during the season.’

And as much has since proven nothing short of a masterstroke.

Oliveira has opened the door to Raphinha to reach his physical peak, the attacker firing on all cylinders from a fitness standpoint.

After suffering a pair of muscular issues last season, he has remained injury-free to this point in the current campaign, too.

Add to this his new status as a leader in Barcelona’s squad, and Raphinha appears to have found the perfect recipe for success in Catalunya’s capital.

Conor Laird – GSFN