Hansi Flick praised the growing influence of the Raphinha effect after Barcelona earned a 3-1 win over Deportivo Alavés at the Camp Nou, a result that temporarily moved them to the top of La Liga.
Yet the Barça coach warned that despite the positive signs, the team must become more ruthless in front of goal if they want to maintain their momentum. He admitted that the Raphinha effect helped carry the side forward, but insisted that missed chances remain a concern.
Strong Reaction After Stamford Bridge Defeat
Barcelona arrived at the Camp Nou under pressure to respond following their setback at Stamford Bridge. Flick said the team wanted to show “personality and control,” and the performance reflected that aim.
With the Raphinha effect energising the right flank, Barça pressed high, reacted quickly to turnovers, and showed more aggression than in recent weeks.
The coach highlighted the importance of the reaction:
“We needed to show we can recover quickly. The team worked well, and when Raphinha pushes, the rest are ready to follow.”
This direct praise of the Raphinha effect underlined the Brazilian’s growing leadership, both in intensity and creativity.
The Raphinha Effect: Leading by Example
Raphinha’s influence has become a talking point within the squad and among supporters. The Raphinha effect is not only about his pace and dribbling but the energy he injects into the team.
Flick said via Mundo Deportivo that, the winger’s aggression helps raise the tempo for teammates: “When he pushes, the rest follow.”
Throughout the match, the Raphinha effect could be seen in Barcelona’s pressing patterns. His sprints forced Alavés to clear the ball early, giving Barça more chances to win possession high up the pitch.
It also opened space for midfielders to join the attack, making the team look more balanced and dynamic.
Statistics underline this influence: Barcelona created more than a dozen shooting opportunities, with Raphinha involved in several of the build-ups. His presence allowed Flick’s side to keep constant pressure on Alavés’ defence.
Flick Still Wants Better Finishing
Despite the win and the improved attitude, Flick was clear about an area that needs work. Barcelona still missed several chances that could have made the evening more comfortable.
Flick did not hide his frustration: “It’s wonderful to get the three points, but we need to improve our finishing. We had chances in the first half and in the second as well.”
This demand for more efficiency was notable. Barcelona have scored regularly under Flick, but their conversion rate has not always matched the number of chances created.
The coach believes that this must change, especially with Atlético Madrid coming to the Camp Nou on Tuesday.
The Raphinha effect helped create openings, but Flick stressed that the team must turn more of those chances into goals.
Confidence Growing, but Tough Tests Ahead
Barça’s provisional lead in La Liga is encouraging, but the coming fixtures will test the team’s progress.
Flick repeatedly mentioned that while the Raphinha effect offered a huge boost, it cannot cover for every weakness.
He wants more precision, more composure, and more consistency. The upcoming match against Atlético will show whether the team can combine the Raphinha effect with the clinical edge Flick is demanding.
For now, though, the German coach will be satisfied with another home win, a strong response after a difficult European night, and the growing leadership of one of his most influential players.
The Raphinha effect is becoming central to Barcelona’s identity — but Flick believes the best is still to come.
