In an exciting match at Montjuïc Stadium, Barcelona secured a 4-3 victory over visiting Celta Vigo in Round 32 of La Liga. Brazilian star Raphinha shone brightly during the match, scoring two goals, including the decisive fourth from a penalty kick in the final minute of stoppage time. This result gave Barcelona three valuable points, temporarily lifting their tally to 73 at the top of La Liga, seven points ahead of rivals Real Madrid.
However, behind the scenes of this thrilling victory, and according to information from the Spanish newspaper ‘‘El Nacional‘‘, Raphinha made surprising statements that included harsh criticism of the team’s left-back Gerard Martín, who is temporarily filling in as the starting right-back following Alejandro Balde’s injury.
The Brazilian star, who has become one of Barcelona’s most influential players this season, reportedly asked German coach Hansi Flick immediately after the match to drop Martín from the starting lineup.
“I don’t want to see him on the pitch again,” Raphinha said firmly, pointing out that Martín’s continued presence represents a serious weakness in the defensive line and could jeopardize the team’s title hopes this season especially in the upcoming decisive matches.