If you want us to produce videos more regularly, please do help us reach beyond 100k by spreading the word on our channel. We can't grow and provide more content without your support! For Endo, Havertz, Gvardiol videos + threads & analysis on the hottest topics, check out our highly active twitter (Road to 50K). twitter.com/pythaginboots If you want us to take our game to the next level (we are saving up for RT Software (Google it)) & opta stats then supporting our investment fund for £1/£3 a month will go a long way whilst getting exclusive videos such as Pedri, Yamal, Gyokeres, Zaire-Emery, Inacio, Florentino Luís, Mitoma, Enzo, Kvara, Leao & others plus patreon exclusive discord where many bright minds football IQ joust & repartee. www.patreon.com/pythagorasinboots
To add on what you said 1. His IQ of space, timing, runs and position is elite 2.His ball striking and passing are elite as well, especially in final actions/plays 3.Raphinha possesses an attitude that is top tier as well 4.Lastly, his first touch is amazing as well Overall such a unique player but of top quality too. His new position gets the best out of him in all areas
Raphinha is the perfect example of a system player and I don't mean that in a bad way. The term has a bad reputation due to being used on players who are obviously not system players (Messi), and for also being slightly redundant - Every player in the world is better when they have a system supporting them. A system player (to me) is a player who has clear, defined limitations in his game but is strong in others, and thus the best way to use them is by creating a system in which their glaring weaknesses are camoufladged as much as possible and their strengths are emphasized. In Raphinha's case, his overall skills on the ball are a level below many of his peers, and he will sometimes struggle if forced to go 1v1 with the ball at his feet and completing successful dribbles. But what he can do, is be ruthlessly efficient, provide immense amount of ground coverage and pressing, find space at every possible opportunity, time his runs correctly, and be constantly aware of his position. So what do you do? You create a system where he doesn't have to do the former, and task him to focus almost exclusively on the latter. Barca have more than their fair share of ball-to-feet magicians like Pedri and Lamine, so rather than try to make him work as another player like that, you make him one of if your not primary source of OOP mobility and exploitation. The fact that he's so smart about it, that he's so consistent with it and is always improving, means he's a "System player" in that he both benefits from and ELEVATES the system. The result is a player whose weaknesses are now practically irrelevant as he spends very little time hogging the ball for circulation, making almost all of his passes one touch-based, and prioritizing EFFICIENCY. Efficiency is an underrated trait of any footballer because football fans regularly prefer showmanship (understandable to some extent, football is entertainment), but showmanship regularly comes at the cost of time and effort that doesn't always result in success. Efficiency is about doing whatever needs to be done at any cost, and Raphinha is one of the epitomes of attacking efficiency today. Moreover, thanks to his incredible effort and mettle, he’s even improved on several aspects that he used to be lacking in (ie his first touch is the thing that’s gotten him the most goals this season, he used to mess up his first touch all the time). So even now his weaknesses aren't as pronounced as they used to be. He is also exactly what both Lamine and Lewandowski needs - A runner who takes advantage of Lamine's deliriously good passes and vision, and a work horse feet-dragger who moves defenders away from Lewandowski and saves him from having to over-extended his old-as-hell legs by endlessly running into the space Lewy can't catch up to. They compliment each other perfectly on every level. That's why they're so good. Dani Olmo, who may well be the smartest of the 4 (NO small feat), is the cherry on top, effortlessly adding an extra layer to every single one of his front 3's strengths - Lamine's tight-space maneuverability, Lewy's finishing, and Raphinha's ability to find and exploit space. As of today, no team in the world can cope with this attack. They have an answer to everything defenders can throw at them. And out of the 4, Raphinha may even be the most effective of the 4. That's insane to think about.
Not to be vague, but Raphinha's movement reminds me of muller under Pep where RL9 would drop deep to get on the ball, and muller would make runs off him. By the way muller was also prolific that season under pep
Even in 23/24 he was barca's best player. 92 mins per g/a in laliga and 94 in ucl. Problem is he didnt get enough playtime because Xavi figured out the lw thing too late
Since day one I always said raphina is hardly suited for the rw and I always thought it was criminal to compare him with dembele one of the best rws in the world. For a touch line winger and a left footed one at that his struggles with take ons and decision making gave me trust issues about his prominence in the team when his purchase was announced. Saka is a like for like player and hes a the perfect model for what a touchline winger is though he’s seriously underrated (a topic for another day) But I think I began to believe when I saw raphina’s performances when Xavi introduced him on the left. He looked like a new player Fast forward to the flick management and he’s sending shockwaves through the football world Xavi deserves a lot of credit and kudos to flick for adding a little more spice to the mix You’ve said it all @Pythagoras in boots
What i see in raphinha is a unique way of playing (for reference, just like how unique busquets was). The way he runs,controls,shoots...its like he doesnt know how to do all these things but he does it anyway💥
Fire content as always. Would love to see analysis videos on players peaks or underrated rated players from the past or even ‘what if’ type videos. Almost like a series. For example Gilberto Silvia’s role for Arsenal, or ‘What if Carrick played in La liga?’
the first time xavi tried it was last march against mallorca when raphinha got injured before halftime. the next match is when xavi then shifted him to the left, and he ripped through napoli’s defense
I need that Yamal video badly, man. I just want to understand if the underlying numbers are proof of the hype and if his game has any major weaknesses. P.S. I love the kid and do believe that he can define an era in Barcelona.
Now that Raphina has improved immensely (and imo is completely different player), what would roughly be your updated rating (and max potential if you think there is still some room to grow)?
Raphinha is also the key man in the press - his speed and engine (he just runs and runs) is a key component of Flick's methods. Turning the ball over in the opponents half leads to many chances, as the defenders are a lot less likely to be set. This is why Flick said after the Bayern game, that he has never had a player like Raphinha.
That game was weird. Bayern was in control for 20-25 minutes and then this disputable second Barca goal shifted something. And then there were Kim and Upa, two mediocre centerbacks who lost us the game. Also, Bayern basically shut down after the third goal. Raphina was very clinical, yes, but don't make him out to be world-class all of a sudden. And no, Barca was not humiliating Bayern, we did that to ourselves mostly. Lets wait and see how the clasico and the rest of the Barca's CL season are going, shall we?
he starts as left winger and go slightly as left center midlfielder so olmo can play in the right center midlfielder and ofc yamal in the right wing. so no one is limiting the other by taking their position
@@treyb7937 yeah him at no.10 role alone is not ideal he isn't thag creative and kinda roam all around but when he gets to play centrally and theres already fermin or olmo for creative plays in the midlle then raphinha is vey letal in finishing and making runs into the box .
It's still October people, Barca have that new manager bounce and play a high risk game that roids up your numbers. The true testament of this team will be when they face adversity since they've already been figured out. Man United went through a similar run after the World Cup although it was due to different factors.
If you want us to produce videos more regularly, please do help us reach beyond 100k by spreading the word on our channel. We can't grow and provide more content without your support! For Endo, Havertz, Gvardiol videos + threads & analysis on the hottest topics, check out our highly active twitter (Road to 50K). twitter.com/pythaginboots
If you want us to take our game to the next level (we are saving up for RT Software (Google it)) & opta stats then supporting our investment fund for £1/£3 a month will go a long way whilst getting exclusive videos such as Pedri, Yamal, Gyokeres, Zaire-Emery, Inacio, Florentino Luís, Mitoma, Enzo, Kvara, Leao & others plus patreon exclusive discord where many bright minds football IQ joust & repartee.
www.patreon.com/pythagorasinboots
@@PythagorasinBoots who do you think is going to win the El clasico
To add on what you said
1. His IQ of space, timing, runs and position is elite
2.His ball striking and passing are elite as well, especially in final actions/plays
3.Raphinha possesses an attitude that is top tier as well
4.Lastly, his first touch is amazing as well
Overall such a unique player but of top quality too. His new position gets the best out of him in all areas
Well said sir
+ really good stamina
@@PythagorasinBoots is flick using raphinha like how he used Muller in the treble run?
Raphinha is the perfect example of a system player and I don't mean that in a bad way. The term has a bad reputation due to being used on players who are obviously not system players (Messi), and for also being slightly redundant - Every player in the world is better when they have a system supporting them. A system player (to me) is a player who has clear, defined limitations in his game but is strong in others, and thus the best way to use them is by creating a system in which their glaring weaknesses are camoufladged as much as possible and their strengths are emphasized. In Raphinha's case, his overall skills on the ball are a level below many of his peers, and he will sometimes struggle if forced to go 1v1 with the ball at his feet and completing successful dribbles. But what he can do, is be ruthlessly efficient, provide immense amount of ground coverage and pressing, find space at every possible opportunity, time his runs correctly, and be constantly aware of his position. So what do you do? You create a system where he doesn't have to do the former, and task him to focus almost exclusively on the latter. Barca have more than their fair share of ball-to-feet magicians like Pedri and Lamine, so rather than try to make him work as another player like that, you make him one of if your not primary source of OOP mobility and exploitation. The fact that he's so smart about it, that he's so consistent with it and is always improving, means he's a "System player" in that he both benefits from and ELEVATES the system.
The result is a player whose weaknesses are now practically irrelevant as he spends very little time hogging the ball for circulation, making almost all of his passes one touch-based, and prioritizing EFFICIENCY. Efficiency is an underrated trait of any footballer because football fans regularly prefer showmanship (understandable to some extent, football is entertainment), but showmanship regularly comes at the cost of time and effort that doesn't always result in success. Efficiency is about doing whatever needs to be done at any cost, and Raphinha is one of the epitomes of attacking efficiency today. Moreover, thanks to his incredible effort and mettle, he’s even improved on several aspects that he used to be lacking in (ie his first touch is the thing that’s gotten him the most goals this season, he used to mess up his first touch all the time). So even now his weaknesses aren't as pronounced as they used to be. He is also exactly what both Lamine and Lewandowski needs - A runner who takes advantage of Lamine's deliriously good passes and vision, and a work horse feet-dragger who moves defenders away from Lewandowski and saves him from having to over-extended his old-as-hell legs by endlessly running into the space Lewy can't catch up to. They compliment each other perfectly on every level. That's why they're so good. Dani Olmo, who may well be the smartest of the 4 (NO small feat), is the cherry on top, effortlessly adding an extra layer to every single one of his front 3's strengths - Lamine's tight-space maneuverability, Lewy's finishing, and Raphinha's ability to find and exploit space.
As of today, no team in the world can cope with this attack. They have an answer to everything defenders can throw at them. And out of the 4, Raphinha may even be the most effective of the 4. That's insane to think about.
Perfect analysis! Can't wait to see him in tonight's clasico
perfect analysis
This write-up is top notch; pls try to make money with this talent of yours.
Fantastic post and I agree!
well said my friend, do you have a blog, substack or something?
Raphinha + the centre of the pitch = goals + assists 😂
Not to be vague, but Raphinha's movement reminds me of muller under Pep where RL9 would drop deep to get on the ball, and muller would make runs off him.
By the way muller was also prolific that season under pep
Yup that is a good comparison
@@PythagorasinBoots15/16 season Muller iconic season.
49 games for Bayern
32 Goals and 10 assists
Even in 23/24 he was barca's best player. 92 mins per g/a in laliga and 94 in ucl. Problem is he didnt get enough playtime because Xavi figured out the lw thing too late
@@jonneapina6559 😂😂
One of my favourite UA-cam Channels 😭🔥❤️
Since day one I always said raphina is hardly suited for the rw and I always thought it was criminal to compare him with dembele one of the best rws in the world. For a touch line winger and a left footed one at that his struggles with take ons and decision making gave me trust issues about his prominence in the team when his purchase was announced.
Saka is a like for like player and hes a the perfect model for what a touchline winger is though he’s seriously underrated (a topic for another day)
But I think I began to believe when I saw raphina’s performances when Xavi introduced him on the left. He looked like a new player
Fast forward to the flick management and he’s sending shockwaves through the football world
Xavi deserves a lot of credit and kudos to flick for adding a little more spice to the mix
You’ve said it all @Pythagoras in boots
Yes Xavi deserves some credit imo
Mucha Gracias Aficion
Esta es para vosotros
Suiiiiiiiiiiiiiiii.........
What i see in raphinha is a unique way of playing (for reference, just like how unique busquets was). The way he runs,controls,shoots...its like he doesnt know how to do all these things but he does it anyway💥
Lamine Yamal is already the BEST RW at the age of 17 🤯
Fire content as always. Would love to see analysis videos on players peaks or underrated rated players from the past or even ‘what if’ type videos. Almost like a series. For example Gilberto Silvia’s role for Arsenal, or ‘What if Carrick played in La liga?’
Shadow striker 👌
His involvement and movement is impressive, always on point.
Love the Kobe reference. Rigid structure i.e the triangle but has license to do what he feels best at the right time.
Deep lying poacher sounds like shadow striker to me tbh
Yes I was toying with this phrase too
@@lyonkennedy4892 exactly.. you’re right Konami 2000s terms. Shadow/second striker..
Xavi was the first to play raphinha in CM.
Correct played him in a midfield 3. But didn’t stick with it.
@@PythagorasinBoots He stuck with it when it started working
the first time xavi tried it was last march against mallorca when raphinha got injured before halftime. the next match is when xavi then shifted him to the left, and he ripped through napoli’s defense
I need that Yamal video badly, man. I just want to understand if the underlying numbers are proof of the hype and if his game has any major weaknesses.
P.S. I love the kid and do believe that he can define an era in Barcelona.
Already done on our patreon
Now that Raphina has improved immensely (and imo is completely different player), what would roughly be your updated rating (and max potential if you think there is still some room to grow)?
I don’t think I would change the rating. He still needs to perform like this by the end of the season to earn a world class rating.
@@PythagorasinBootstrue
Do it on fermin lopeg and marc casado
Will do a video on them
@@PythagorasinBootsfinally ! been waiting on the Fermin one !!
I'm enjoying this video with a popcorn fantastic video
Thank you 😋
Please do Pedri!!!
On our patreon
Raphinha has always been a G/A magnet. Flick letting him roam freely unlocked him
great vid
Great video! Any plans on who the next player analysis is going to cover?
Florian Wirtz
Thought you would talk about his interior stint felt that kind of layed down the works for Xavi turning him into a lw
Xavi played him there with midfielder intention but Flick played him with striker intention
Here after Madrid got Pegged by barca we need a analyses brudda please and thank you inject it.
Yeah,Raphinha has been phenomenal this season
Raphinha is also the key man in the press - his speed and engine (he just runs and runs) is a key component of Flick's methods. Turning the ball over in the opponents half leads to many chances, as the defenders are a lot less likely to be set. This is why Flick said after the Bayern game, that he has never had a player like Raphinha.
Raphinha is also a top level playmaker.
Can you do an analysis on Fofana, please?
This is very Griezzman - Giroud esque.
I know rapha is performing really really well, but if he was replaced by Nico do you think Barca would be better or worse?
Credit to Xavi where necessary but he didn’t fully trust Raphinha. Flick however places his 100% trust in him and the results showed.
Xavi played him there with midfielder intention but Flick played him with striker intention
Xavi played him there with midfielder intention but Flick played him with striker intention
that intro gives me ptsd bro
That’s what we like to hear
Please make a yamal video 🙏🏻
It’s on our patreon
Can this tactical approach be the one to bring the best out Mudryk too?
That game was weird. Bayern was in control for 20-25 minutes and then this disputable second Barca goal shifted something. And then there were Kim and Upa, two mediocre centerbacks who lost us the game. Also, Bayern basically shut down after the third goal. Raphina was very clinical, yes, but don't make him out to be world-class all of a sudden. And no, Barca was not humiliating Bayern, we did that to ourselves mostly. Lets wait and see how the clasico and the rest of the Barca's CL season are going, shall we?
Back from the El Clasico, Hansi's doing brilliantly but we shall see what the end of the season looks like.
Where is your video on Lamine Yamal? I couldn't find it anymore
Blocked. It’s on patreon
Deeplying poacher, playmaker, sweeper, pressmachine, and soon to be keeper.
Has he reached generational status I mean for potential like a Di Maria should have been
Not yet
Bro can you name a young player who has similar profile as Raphinha
Deep lying poacher sounds quite paradoxic, shadow striker is a better tag
Flick didn't though Xavi was the one who made the switch to him being a LW/Interior #10 mid last season, all Flick doing is continuing the idea lmao
😮
I don’t like him at 10 tbh as he steps on Yamal toes with Olmo 10 at the team looks way better
he starts as left winger and go slightly as left center midlfielder so olmo can play in the right center midlfielder and ofc yamal in the right wing.
so no one is limiting the other by taking their position
@@songoku-bt7gt I’m talking about when Olmo was out with Ferran playing left
@@treyb7937 yeah him at no.10 role alone is not ideal he isn't thag creative and kinda roam all around but when he gets to play centrally and theres already fermin or olmo for creative plays in the midlle then raphinha is vey letal in finishing and making runs into the box .
@@songoku-bt7gtraphine is literally the player with the most big chances created what do you mean when you say his not creative
@@danchiziofficial2159 if he plays alone in the no.10 role .
Just listen to the vod he detailed this aspect.
Raphinha is a "central winger"
No card? No potential rating??? Great analysis but you leaving that out is wack.
Nothing wrong with that imo the actual analysis is more important than a card that just has numbers
This isn’t a full player analysis video
This is not a player profile video. He has already done a lovely analysis on Raphinha.
Already done a video on Raphinha with the rating. This is a topical video
It's still October people, Barca have that new manager bounce and play a high risk game that roids up your numbers. The true testament of this team will be when they face adversity since they've already been figured out. Man United went through a similar run after the World Cup although it was due to different factors.