Xavi’s plan for Raphinha after disappointing performance vs Inter Milan

FC Barcelona succumbed to their second successive defeat in the UEFA Champions League recently, falling to a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Inter Milan.

One of the worst performers in the game was Raphinha, who struggled to make an impact on the flanks. He lacked confidence on the far side, often failing to break the shackles of the Inter Milan defence that stood strong throughout the entirety of the ninety minutes.

According to a report from Diario AS, Xavi was extremely disappointed with Raphinha’s poor performance against Inter Milan.

However, the Barcelona coach was not furious with Raphinha’s overall performance on the left flank. It was the attacker’s lack of effectiveness in front of goal that left Xavi disappointed. It appears the Spaniard was expecting the winger to offer more potency in front of goal.

As such, Xavi urged Raphinha to explore more goalscoring opportunities after the game. The Barça coach also expects the Brazilian international to attempt more shots in the final third instead of creating chances in and around the final third.

In other words, Xavi wants Raphinha to become more selfish in the attacking third, especially if he has his goal in sights. The Barcelona coaching team are aware of the attacker’s potency from long-range and wants him to put it to use more often.

From a tactical perspective, Xavi is planning to utilise Raphinha back in his natural right flank in the coming matches.

With the former Leeds United starlet yet to score since his goal against Sevilla in September, the pressure is immense on the forward to deliver, as Barcelona gear up for a difficult phase ahead.

The upcoming game against Celta Vigo on Sunday should give the winger an ideal opportunity to return to his groove, especially after a barren run of form.