2. Raphinha and Yamal steal the show
Hansi Flick employed Raphinha and Lamine Yamal on the two flanks in a four-man attack, with Ferran Torres playing a more central attacking role. While Ferran spurned a couple of definite chances with tame finishing, the wingers were at it from the get-go. Lamine Yamal scored from a beautiful curling effort, which was aided by some healthy deflection. The 17-year-old superstar was ready to take on the defenders at will and enjoyed his tussle against his fellow compatriot Nico Williams.
Hansi Flick: "Raphinha can play in any position of the attack. It's amazing for us to have a player like this." pic.twitter.com/MECIY64zsk
— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) August 24, 2024
Raphinha, on the left, enjoyed one of his best games in a Barcelona jersey and could be a huge asset if he could replicate his performance throughout the season. The Brazil international was a constant thorn in the path of the Athletic defenders and was duly acknowledged by his manager after the game. He could have easily registered a couple of assists if not for the woodwork and got the crowd on their feet with a brilliant acrobatic volley, which, unfortunately, was hit straight down the middle.