Xavi set to start 26-year-old Barcelona winger in UCL clash ahead of others
Given the quality depth at FC Barcelona this season, head coach Xavi Hernandez is left with several dilemmas. The players at his disposal all make good claims to start, but the Catalan coach only has a limited number of positions on the field to occupy them with.
However, the quality and demands of the players must mean rotation. As such, Xavi will be tasked with finding the correct balance this season for his huge squad in terms of providing them minutes and chances across the lengthy campaign ahead.
One of the players who has been waiting for a chance to start since the draw against Getafe is Brazilian winger Raphinha. Excitingly for him, however, according to Spanish outlet SPORT, he may just get that chance very soon.
As per the latest update provided by SPORT, Raphinha may become the chosen one by Xavi Hernandez to start against Belgian side Royal Antwerp in the first UEFA Champions League Group Stage game of the 2023/24 season for Barcelona.
Following his expulsion against Getafe in the opening game of the season, the Brazilian has lost prominence. With a two-game suspension having been fulfilled against Cadiz and Villarreal, he remained second fiddle to 16-year-old Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres even upon his return from suspension.
However, given that he has shown a professional attitude towards being benched and continues to impress his coaches, they believe his chance to shine has once again arrived.
He proves himself to be a great asset to Barcelona holistically as well. His abilities as a winger will be great for Xavi to create width with, as well as utilize his powerful shots and crosses to create danger near the Antwerp goal.
Raphinha also has another tall task ahead of him to ensure he adds to his goal tally in the UCL for Barcelona as well.
Having played 5 games in the competition last season, he failed to score for the Catalan giants. However, he did manage to do so against Manchester United in the same campaign’s Europa League run.
