Brazilian Rivaldo, the former Barcelona legend, spoke about the team’s level under Hansi Flick this season.
Rivaldo praised the remarkable improvement in the players’ performances under Flick and expressed his optimism about Barcelona’s ability to return to the top and win a major title this season, whether it be La Liga or the Champions League.
In his statements to the Catalan newspaper “Mundo Deportivo,” the former Brazilian player criticized Xavi Hernandez for his poor treatment of his compatriot at Barcelona.
Rivaldo discussed Rafinha’s situation during his training periods under both Xavi Hernandez and Hansi Flick, highlighting the significant difference in the player’s development under the German coach.
Regarding Rafinha, he said: “I am very happy with Rafinha this season; there is a change in his confidence. When you have confidence in the coach, your confidence increases.” He added: “Xavi almost destroyed him completely. He didn’t give him much confidence and left him on the bench in many matches, substituting him in others. It was very complicated. Today, he has the coach’s confidence, and everything has become easier.”
He continued: “Rafinha has the ability to go very far and do many things for the club. He can be an example for Barcelona fans. He has quality, shoots strongly, and loves to score goals. He will do something very important for the club, and now he is, in my personal opinion, the best in Europe.”