Why Raphinha started over Lamine Yamal for Barcelona vs Athletic Club | OneFootball

Barcelona head coach Xavi has tonight provided an insight into the reasoning behind his decision to afford a start to Raphinha, rather than Lamine Yamal, against Athletic Club.

This comes fresh off what proved to be a largely disappointing evening for the Blaugrana.

In the knowledge that an eventual victory would have seen them leapfrog Girona into 2nd in the La Liga table, Xavi and co. made the trip to San Mamés, for a meeting with former boss Ernesto Valverde’s Athletic.

When all was said and done, however, Barca were forced to make do with a point.

As much came owing to a goalless stalemate, which saw the evening’s visitors majorly struggle in their efforts to carve out goalscoring opportunities.

Speaking to the media post-match, it therefore came as little surprise when the subject of his attacking setup in the Basque Country was put to the aforementioned Xavi.

Specifically, the Spanish tactician was questioned on his decision to start Raphinha, over youngster Lamine Yamal, who looked a rare bright spark down the right flank upon his introduction to proceedings.

And Xavi went on to highlight both Raphinha’s fine showing against Getafe, and Lamine’s tender years, as the central factors in his call:

“Raphinha started after a great match vs Getafe,” he began.

“Lamine Yamal had started too many matches in a row. He’s only 16 years old and we’re protecting him. He’s only a young teenager.”

Conor Laird | GSFN