Barcelona’s attacking setup this season is arguably the best in Europe. Still, one thing feels off; Balon D’or-worthy player Raphinha is playing on the left while Yamal occupies the right. As good as both players have been, I firmly believe that Raphinha could be even more effective if he played in his natural right-wing position. Let’s discuss:
Raphinha’s Left Foot is a Weapon That Must Be Used Properly
Raphinha is one of the best left-footed wingers in the world in terms of shooting. He has a brilliant, natural ability to cut inside and unleash powerful shots from his left foot. It used to be his trademark move at Leeds, too, and that was what convinced Barca to sign him.
However, right now, the Brazilian plays on the far left, limiting his shooting angles. No doubt Lamine Yamal is excellent on the right, but the teenager this season has been more of a creator than a goal scorer. I believe if Raphinha were moved to the right, he could comfortably surpass his current tally of 23 goals and 13 assists this season. Barca would gain a more direct goal threat from that side rather than relying primarily on crosses from Raphinha from the right.
Raphinha is Naturally a Right Winger, and He’s in the Form of His Life
Did you guys see the instant impact Raphinha delivered when moved to the right against Benfica? After Yamal’s substitution, the Brazilian moved to the right and needed one slip-up to finish from his left, which was too well out of the box. This is because Raphinha is naturally an RW. Playing on the left takes away his best qualities. On the left, Raphinha constantly drifts inside, often leaving Alex Balde as the only player who provides width. This makes the Catalan attack somewhat predictable.
Now, with Raphinha’s current form, Barca should maximize his potential by playing him in his natural role. Raphinha has done so well playing on his less preferred left side; imagine what he could achieve by playing his natural role. His dribbling, close control, and passing would be far more effective than they are right now.
A Tactical Shift: Raphinha as an Attacking Midfielder?
Now, if Hansi Flick insists on keeping Yamal on the right, there is another option-playing Raphinha as an attacking midfielder or second striker. This would allow him to get on the ball more often, find spaces in central areas of pitch and use his lethal left foot from better angles.
In this setup, Yamal could stay wide on the right to stretch defenses while Raphinha could operate between the lines, shooting and creating from central positions. Just like Argentina used Di Maria and Leo Messi in the world cup, Yamal and Raphinha could operate in a similar fashion. This would help balance the team and put Raphinha’s left foot to a better use.
Lamine Yamal is no doubt a generational talent, but Raphinha’s form must be prioritized right now. Whether it’s moving him back to the right wing or giving him freedom centrally, Flick should find a way to use his incredible left foot more effectively.
What do you guys think? Should Raphinha be given the right-wing or central spot, or is the current setup working fine? Let me know your thoughts!