A Leader From the Sidelines

In El Clásico at the Santiago Bernabéu, Raphinha didn’t play or even make the squad due to injury, yet his presence was as impactful as anyone’s on the pitch. The Brazilian winger, still recovering from a muscle issue, chose to accompany the team from the very beginning — showing up in the locker room before the trip, speaking with his teammates, and proving that commitment doesn’t depend on being in the starting lineup.

With Iñigo Martínez gone, Barcelona had been left without a clear leadership figure. But Raphinha, without needing the captain’s armband, stepped into that role through gestures that spoke louder than words.

The Gesture That Made the Difference

Throughout the match, Raphinha was seen on the bench, encouraging his teammates and staying emotionally invested. After the final whistle, when tempers flared between players from both sides, he stepped in — separating teammates, calming tensions, and confronting those who provoked Barça players.

Yet his role didn’t end there. Inside the locker room, once the defeat had sunk in, Raphinha took the floor and addressed his teammates. It wasn’t a generic speech — it was a reminder of pride, unity, and resilience, even in moments of pain.

A Captain Without the Armband, but With Character

After just one full season at the club, the former Leeds United winger has become one of the most respected voices in the dressing room. His behavior during El Clásico confirmed what many within the club already believe: Raphinha contributes not only with his feet but with his leadership.

In a time when Barcelona is searching for new leaders, his figure stands out as a symbol of commitment and heart. Injured or not, Raphinha led without playing — and sometimes, that means far more than scoring a goal.