The Brazil international was an absolute joy to see during his time playing in the Premier League alongside Leeds United. Romano also reported that there was a huge race for his signature.
Arsenal was among the clubs that wanted Raphinha to sign, Mikel Arteta being a huge fan, but he chose to move to the Nou Camp.
Raphinha is still not at his best. Barcelona are facing early Champions League elimination and suffered a devastating defeat in El Clasico against rivals Real Madrid.
Arsenal have taken a four point lead at the top Premier League table. Raphinha may be regretting not having shown more faith in the Emirates Stadium project.
“I don’t like judging a player after one or two month: he’s in new country, new football system, new manager and new club. Romano explained why he needs to be patient in his exclusive column for CaughtOffside via Substack.
Raphinha is a top player at a top club, so it’s only a matter of time before he finds his feet at Barcelona.
Arsenal already have Bukayo Saka in fine form on that right-hand side, so it’s not immediately clear where Raphinha would have fitted in anyway, so one imagines there won’t be too many regrets at the north London club.
