Barcelona forward left distraught after Valencia draw due to poor performance – report
After enduring a mixed debut season at Barcelona last term, many had expected Raphinha to explode in Catalonia this time around.
But as we approach the halfway point of the season, Raphinha has been a major disappointment for Barcelona this season. The forward has struggled with injuries while his performances have been far from impressive.
So it happens, the Brazilian was also one of Barça’s worst performers in the recent 1-1 draw with Valencia.
Raphinha’s reaction after Valencia game
Raphinha himself was quite aware of his poor display in the final third against Valencia this past weekend.
In fact, the player was left distraught after his performance on the night. He was particularly saddened by a missed goalscoring opportunity, reports Mundo Deportivo.
His teammates tried to console the player, but to no avail, as Raphinha left the field in a state of disarray and had to cover his face with his shirt.
The attacker, after all, had missed not just one but two easy chances to equalise for Barcelona. Those misses outweighed an otherwise energetic display from the former Leeds United starlet.
Raphinha’s poor campaign this season
The performance against Valencia was one of many underwhelming displays from Raphinha this season.
In 13 league matches this season, Raphinha has scored only two goals. He did rack up four assists, but the Brazilian’s lack of productivity remains a concern for Barcelona, especially considering the club’s impotence in the final third this term.
As a matter of fact, Barcelona are 45th when it comes to conversion rate in front of goal this season, among Europe’s top five leagues. And Raphinha’s poor form is surely a contributing factor.
Raphinha, though, will have an opportunity to end the year on a positive note as Barcelona take on bottom club Almeria in the final game of this calendar year.
