For the Europa LeagueBarcelona draw with Manchester United 2-2 this Thursday. Brazilian Raphinha scored a goal and provided an assist, but was replaced in the second half by Xavi. When leaving the field, the attacker cursed and released profanity.
Raphinha wasn’t very happy with Xavi being replaced 😬 pic.twitter.com/dZGarCtlzo
— 𝗥𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝗵𝗮𝘀 𝗙𝘂𝘁𝘁 🥋🔥 (@futt_resenhas) February 16, 2023
At the press conference after the end of the game, the Barcelona coach downplayed Raphinha’s attitude and revealed that the Brazilian apologized.
“I think it’s normal for Raphinha to get angry. I also got angry when I was substituted. He came to me to apologize and I told him to calm down because I’ve already experienced this. I see it in a very positive way. It seems perfect for me. The lack of attitude and education, no. Getting angry, yes”, declared Xavi.
Raphinha took the corner that ended in a header by Marcos Alonso, at the beginning of the second half. In the 31st minute, the Brazilian crossed to Lewandowski in the area, the ball passed by everyone and entered the goal, tying the match. Seven minutes later, he left the field for the entry of Ferran Torres.
“I traded Raphinha because we needed new people, everyone deserves opportunities and it seemed like a much needed change for the team. Intensity and a lot of high pressure”, justified Xavi.
The draw takes the definition of the confrontation for the duel back of the round of 32 of the Europa League. Barcelona travel to England next Tuesday to face the Manchester Unitedno Old Trafford.
Source: Gazetaesportiva
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