‘Xavi never trusted me’ – Raphinha slams ex-Barcelona manager

Brazilian star Raphinha has criticised ex-Barcelona manager Xavi for his struggles during the Spaniard’s tenure.

The 28-year-old has been in red-hot form for the Catalan giants under Hansi Flick this season.

He initially struggled to find his footing at Barca after moving from Leeds United in a deal worth £55 million in 2022.

Raphinha has now opened up on his frustrating initial years at Barca, claiming he didn’t have enough backing from Xavi and his coaching staff.

“I felt that neither he nor the coaching staff trusted me,” the Brazilian told journalist Isabela Pagliari.

“When there was no other, I was there and played the full 90 minutes.

“I gave everything I had to deliver and solved the games, but when there was someone else who could play in my place, I did it without thinking.

“Sometimes, I was doing everything in sixty minutes, and I would take myself out.”

The former Rennes star also said that he worked hard to earn Xavi’s confidence, but to no avail.

“I tried to fix it, I had several conversations with him, but I saw that these didn’t make any difference – he had his way of thinking,” Raphinha added.

Raphinha also contemplated leaving the Catalan giants last summer amid offers from the Saudi Pro League but eventually changed his mind.

He has silenced his critics by delivering stellar performances.

Flick has undoubtedly unlocked Raphinha’s potential. The forward has bagged 35 goals and 21 assists in all competitions.

The Brazilian is also touted as the front-runner for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award.

Raphinha will be keen to make an impact in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan tonight. The aggregate score is 3-3.