Raphinha Asked Referee for Protection From Sevilla's Physical Play, Video Shows
The short version
- Barcelona have won seven consecutive La Liga matches ahead of the international break.
- Raphinha has 14 goals in eight games and is Barcelona's first captain.
- DAZN footage shows him asking referee Martinez Munuera for protection from Sevilla's rough play.
- The referee compared the grappling between Raphinha and Fofana to judo.
- Raphinha faces about 34,000 km of travel to Australia for Brazil friendlies during the break.
Footage released by DAZN captured the Barcelona captain warning referee Martinez Munuera about fouls during the win at Sevilla.
Barcelona enter the international break with seven straight La Liga victories, and Raphinha has been at the center of the run. The Brazilian has scored 14 goals in eight games while combining effectively with Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez in attack.
DAZN has published clips recorded by referee Martinez Munuera during Barcelona's victory away to Sevilla. In the footage, Raphinha repeatedly goes to the official seeking more protection from the home side's aggressive approach. The Brazilian is heard saying the opponents are going to break their backs and urging the referee to watch screens and holds, suggesting that once one or two fouls are called, the behavior will stop.
A separate moment shows Raphinha and Sevilla's Fofana clashing over a free kick. The referee stepped in and told both players that while one grabs, the other does the same, adding that it is not football but judo.
Raphinha now serves as Barcelona's first captain and has played more minutes than any other outfield player this season. His form is considered by the source to be even stronger than his first campaign under the German coach.
The main worry for Barcelona is the demanding international schedule facing the 29-year-old, which involves a trip to Australia and roughly 34,000 kilometers of travel for Brazil friendlies. Coach Flick will want his captain back fit for club action.
