Barcelona winger loses starting spot to former target in national team | OneFootball

Raphinha finds himself staring at a crucial summer as his name continues to be linked with a summer departure from FC Barcelona.

The 27-year-old was one of the more consistent and reliable performers for the Blaugrana last season even though he was, at times, played out of position by former manager Xavi.

While new head coach, Hansi Flick, values the Brazilian, the fact that the club needs a few high-profile sales, coupled with the interest that Raphinha is attracting, makes his departure likely.

Amidst all the chatter surrounding his future at Barcelona, the winger is currently away in the USA, representing Brazil at the 2024 Copa America, but things do not seem to be going his way there either.

Raphinha loses starting spot to Savio

Indeed, as reported by SPORT, Raphinha has seemingly lost his starting spot on the right flank in the Brazilian national team to a former Barcelona target Savio at the Copa America.

Raphinha started Brazil’s first game against Costa Rica on the right flank but disappointed as the match ended in a goalless draw.

Raphinha has lost his starting spot to Savio. (Photo by Ian Maule/Getty Images)

As a result, manager Dorival Junior opted to take him out of the team for Selecao’s second game against Paraguay, replacing him with Savio.

The Girona winger excelled during the game, even scoring a goal as Brazil ran out 4-1 victors on the night in Las Vegas.

Raphinha, on the other hand, got only 18 minutes on the field as a substitute.

Now, with Brazil set to face another tournament favourites in Colombia, all signs point towards the Barcelona winger continuing on the bench once more, with Savio likely to be favoured.

As mentioned earlier, the Girona winger was on Barcelona’s agenda in the past but the club decided against pursuing his signing due to the FFP problems.

The exciting winger is expected to move to Premier League champions Manchester City this summer.