Raphinha-Dembélé to fight for the right-wing starter spot for Barça
The Brazilian's top performance in the clásico, including the winning goal, was answered by the Frenchman with a brace against Juve, indicating close competition between the two for the starting berth at right wing, a blessing for Xavi
It has not taken long to prove that Xavi's desire to have positions doubly reinforced was not a coaching whim. Healthy competition is always good as it pushes the players to give their all and keep improving, feeling the pressure from their teammates. We have had glimpses of it in the competition between Raphinha and Dembélé for the starting spot as a right winger. This is one of those selection headaches Xavi would be happy to have.
Raphinha already impressed in the match against Inter Miami and more so in the el clásico, when he earned recognition for his goal and ability to press. The Brazilian has raised the team's competitive bar and is vindicating his signing. He is a special talent and it shows. Against Juventus, he displayed his set piece skills, hitting the crossbar with a freekick; Barça have wanted a specialist in this role since Leo Messi's departure to PSG. Half an hour against the Italians was enough to create chances with the team's attacking football.
Raphinha's good performances have sparked Dembélé, who in his first start on this tour, announced himself strongly, and made a real impact in the duel against Juventus with two goals. Showing his growth and progress, he has vindicated himself as a real contender for his place in the starting eleven. Xavi had good words for his performance and recalled that he insisted on re-signing him because, like Raphinha, Dembélé is a world-class footballer.
The duel between the two is ripe and promises to be a treat for Barça fans, with the team now having two sharp daggers to pick from on the right flank.
