Raphinha’s goal spree drives Barcelona ahead of Valencia clash

Raphinha has found the net five times in his last three appearances, playing as a makeshift centre‑forward for Barcelona ahead of Sunday’s trip to Valencia at the Mestalla. The Catalan side sit level on nine points with Real Madrid under Jose Mourinho and Real Betis, who upset the league leaders earlier in the week.

Why the surge matters

The Brazilian’s form arrives at a pivotal moment. Barcelona missed out on a marquee striker to replace Robert Lewandowski and Ferran Torres, opting instead for a deadline‑day deal with Arsenal for Gabriel Jesus. Even the new signing admits the existing attack is already “great”.

"I don't think I'm coming to improve the team because it's already great," Jesus said at his presentation on Tuesday.

Coach Hansi Flick has reshaped the squad since arriving, giving Raphinha a central role that helped secure back‑to‑back league titles. Flick praised the Brazilian as “the best option for us at the moment in this position”.

What lies ahead

With the Champions League looming, Flick is likely to rotate his squad, potentially easing the burden on Raphinha after a season riddled with injuries. The upcoming clash at the Mestalla will test whether his scoring streak can continue against a defensively disciplined Valencia side.

Should the Brazilian maintain his rate, Barcelona could solidify a top‑two finish and enter Europe with momentum. Conversely, a dip in form may prompt Flick to lean more on the newly arrived Gabriel Jesus, whose integration will be closely watched.

Raphinha’s early‑season exploits have already placed him among the league’s most prolific forwards, and his performance in Valencia could shape the narrative of Barcelona’s title challenge.