In a podcast on Cadena SER, journalist Santi Ovalle revealed why Raphinha became Barcelona's number 9 this season: Flick values his pressing abilities against opponents.

According to the report, Barcelona started the season impressively, dominating nearly every match, with statistics to prove it: seven consecutive wins in La Liga, scoring 31 goals while conceding only 7, averaging more than 4 goals per match, and thrashing Feyenoord 5-1 in their Champions League debut.

They are a well-organized machine, with sharp attacking play, intense pressing, and exceptional chance creation, all working together as a cohesive unit. If there is a leader on the pitch—though it is widely believed within the team that Flick is the true leader—it is Raphinha.

He not only wears the captain's armband but also stands out for his winning mentality and positive attitude; his statistics are stunning. In 8 appearances, he has scored 14 goals and provided 3 assists, making him La Liga's leading scorer. This is a rare achievement, especially considering he is not a traditional center forward.

At the start of this season, Barcelona faced the challenge of finding a successor to Lewandowski and Ferran Torres following their departures. Although they recruited Adeyemi and Gordon, neither truly fit the position.

Since the start of the season, Raphinha has perfectly filled the number 9 role for Barcelona, showcasing his strength. However, his value extends far beyond just scoring goals, which is an achievement for Flick, who made the crucial decision.

But this is not the main reason Flick placed him in this position. In fact, Flick chose Raphinha as the primary striker not only for his excellent finishing ability but also because he knew the Brazilian forward never shies away from challenges.

The journalist said: "Flick decided to play him in this position primarily because he can press opponents. Flick considers him the best pressing player on the team and asked him to initiate attacks." Additionally, Santi himself was surprised by his outstanding performance early in the season.

"One day during preseason, they played Raphinha in that position. After his first match there, they spoke with him and asked how he handled the intensity. To press like a beast. And Raphinha did exactly that, which changed the plans for both the club and the player himself."

Club management was not entirely certain about Raphinha's long-term future, not because they didn't want him to stay, but because of recent concerns: "They thought he would stay this year, but he might move to Saudi Arabia next year or the year after to earn a higher salary than what his contract stipulates."

Therefore, Barcelona recruited Adeyemi and Gordon, two players in similar positions on the pitch. Subsequently, they also reached a contract extension agreement with Raphinha, and this turn of events proved very favorable for both parties.

The club retained their key player—their captain—and the Brazilian forward continued his stellar performances. His new contract places him at the "second-tier salary level," equivalent to Rodri's, and only below Yamal.

This is how he became the number 9, and undoubtedly, he is also the most decisive player on the team right now, and they believe he will only get better: "If he can maintain this level of performance, the club believes he will be a strong contender for next season's Ballon d'Or, provided he maintains these statistics."

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