Leon Goretzka reportedly to start in Nations League clash against Italy and take Kroos’ number 8
18:16
'He's an exceptional footballer': Vincenzo Montella defends Arda Guler's struggles at Real Madrid
17:52
Manchester United maintain interest in Xavi Simons despite high price tag - Florian Plettenberg
17:51
3
Ligue 1 fans in France given free three-month DAZN subscription by buying €14.15 McDonalds meal
17:43
Real Madrid could resign Alex Jimenez - but Milan have no intention of letting him go - reports
17:06
1
Raphinha on Xavi: ‘If he wasn’t the coach, I wouldn’t be at Barcelona’
8 February, 11:44
3
Raphinha has spoken about his time under Xavi Hernandez, admitting it was not always smooth but expressing gratitude for the former manager’s trust.
The Brazilian winger struggled for consistent form and game time but was still backed by Xavi.
“Although there were many rumours about my departure last season, he kept telling me that he was counting on me,” Raphinha said in an interview with France Football, as reported by SPORT.
He acknowledged Xavi’s role in keeping him at the club. “If he hadn’t been the coach of Barcelona, I wouldn’t wear this shirt that I’ve always dreamed of wearing. Xavi was convinced that with hard work I would become an important player,” he added.
