Barcelona captain named in UEFA Team of the Week after Feyenoord brace

Raphinha has received another major accolade after his outstanding display against Feyenoord earned him a place in UEFA’s Team of the Week, adding to his recent recognition in LaLiga.

The Barcelona captain was singled out by UEFA’s technical observers following a performance in which he scored twice, with his opening goal particularly catching the eye. 

Raphinha used a clever feint to beat two Feyenoord defenders before finishing the move in style.

UEFA’s assessment also highlighted the Brazilian’s work away from the ball and his influence in several areas of the pitch.

“Against Feyenoord, the Barcelona captain led the press with impressive intensity and made runs behind the defence to create danger from deep, as well as playing between the lines, capping off his performance with two magnificent goals,” the UEFA website explains.

Raphinha joins three former Barça players

Barcelona captain named in UEFA Team

Raphinha was not the only player with Barcelona connections to make the XI.

PSV defender Sergino Dest was also selected, while Marc Bartra earned his place after scoring twice for Real Betis in their victory against Stuttgart. 

Ferran Torres completed the quartet of former Barça players after his hat-trick against Slovan Bratislava at the Parc des Princes.

For Raphinha, the UEFA recognition shows just how influential he has been at the start of the campaign.

The Brazilian has emerged as one of Barcelona’s most productive attacking players and has established himself as a central figure for the team.

La Liga honour adds to remarkable start

Barcelona captain named in UEFA Team

His latest UEFA accolade follows another individual award. Raphinha has also been named La Liga Player of the Month after a blistering opening to the domestic season.

He has scored eight goals in five matches across competitions, including six in his four LaLiga appearances.

Those league goals have come against Elche, Athletic, Rayo and Valencia, with Raphinha scoring twice against both Elche and Rayo.

The numbers only tell part of the story, as his intensity in the press, willingness to attack space and growing responsibility as Barcelona captain have made him increasingly important to the side.