"Such a hardworking talent" - Indian cricketer Kuldeep Yadav hails Barcelona superstar for his performance in 3-0 Alaves win

Indian cricketer Kuldeep Yadav, a well-known Barcelona supporter, praised Brazilian winger Raphinha for his outstanding performance against Deportivo Alaves. La Blaugrana were in dominant form, securing a 3-0 victory that put them three points ahead of second-placed Real Madrid in La Liga.

After a 4-2 loss to Osasuna in their previous league game, the Catalan club needed a statement win, and they set down a marker in the seventh minute. Raphinha’s superb free-kick led to Robert Lewandowski’s goal, who opened the scoring with a glancing header.

Lewandowski then doubled the lead on the counterattack, with Raphinha once again intelligently setting him up in the 22nd minute. The Polish striker completed his hat-trick ten minutes later, effectively sealing the game.

While Lewandowski may steal the headlines for his goals, it was Raphinha’s brilliance that significantly contributed to Barcelona’s success, as he created five chances - the most by any player in the match.

Raphinha, who was named one of the club’s five captains, stepped up to take the armband after Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s injury, and this responsibility has seemingly elevated his performances.

Kuldeep Yadav, who frequently shows his support for Barcelona on social media, took notice of his display on the night, while stating that the Brazilian’s approach to the game has been exceptional.

"Raphinha, whatta player. Such an hardworking talent, the attitude with which he approach every game something which we hardly talk about. Aggressive with/without the ball, always look for the options. Leading this beautiful team way. Our Leader," Kuldeep Yadav posted on X.

Barcelona fans will be hoping that the Brazilian winger can maintain his recent form, especially with crucial games ahead, including the top-of-the-table clash against Real Madrid after the international break.

Barcelona manager Hansi Flick hails Raphinha’s performance

Raphinha was handed a huge responsibility after Ter Stegen’s injury and he has fully embraced the challenge. With six goals and six assists in just 11 games, he’s on track for the best goal-scoring season of his career.

Hansi Flick, whose arrival has evidently boosted the Brazilian winger’s confidence, lauded his performances but believes that he still has room to improve in the upcoming matches.

“It’s a big thing for him to be the captain of Barça. He’s a very dynamic footballer, who can still be even better. He didn’t score today, but we appreciate what he’s doing because I value his fight beyond the goal.” Flick said (via Barca Blaugranes).

Barcelona’s attacking trio of Lewandowski, Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal have proven to be a formidable force when played together, with Flick attributing their combination to the preparation done on the training ground.

"We have worked on it, of course we have worked on it. When you have meetings, you tell them what you want from them, where I want them to move, and they are doing very well. The dynamic of these three players is fantastic,” he told reporters (via Barca Blaugranes).

After the international break, Barcelona will take on Sevilla in La Liga, looking to widen their lead at the top of the table. They will then face Bayern Munich in the Champions League, followed by the El Clasico showdown against Real Madrid.