Barcelona forward eager to reclaim starting spot under Xavi after injury setback

It has been a difficult season so far for Barcelona star winger Raphinha what with having to deal with multiple setbacks.

Following the departure of Ousmane Dembele, the Brazilian was expected to become the first-choice right winger for Barça under Xavi.

But, his sending-off in the first game of the season against Getafe opened the doors for Lamine Yamal, who made the most of his opportunity, relegating the Brazilian to the bench even after he had served his suspension.

Just when the 26-year-old appeared to be regaining his form, he suffered a thigh injury during the win against Sevilla, ruling him out for close to a month.

Raphinha keen to become a starter again

Having made his return from injury this past weekend against Real Madrid, Raphinha is now gunning to re-establish himself as a regular starter for Barcelona under Xavi Hernandez, reports Sergi de Juan of SPORT.

Raphinha picked up a thigh injury during the match against Sevilla towards the end of September, which sidelined him for nearly a month.

During that period, the winger missed four games in all competitions – versus Granada and Athletic Club in La Liga, and FC Porto and Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League.

The former Leeds United forward returned to action last Saturday against Real Madrid, playing a little under 15 minutes in the Clasico defeat.

Eager to make up for lost time

Raphinha has not had the easiest of time since joining Barcelona last year but has delivered for Xavi & co. whenever called upon.

Having missed a good chunk of matches already this season, the Brazilian international is eager to make up for lost time.

Raphinha believes that he is still an important part of the team and can be a difference-maker for Xavi.

On top of that, with Lamine Yamal’s minutes piling up and Ferran Torres blowing hot and cold at times, there may be a window of opportunity for the winger.