Raphinha, the Brazilian forward who joined Barcelona in January 2021 from Benfica, has been a key player for the club this season. He has made over 50 appearances for the Blaugrana and has scored eight goals.
One aspect of Raphinha's game that has stood out is his tackling ability. In his first two seasons at Barca, he averaged just under three tackles per game, but since joining the club, his tackling numbers have increased significantly. In the 20-21 season, he averaged over four tackles per game,Campeonato Brasileiro Action which is one of the highest among all players in La Liga.
This increase in tackling has come at a time when Barcelona has struggled defensively. The team has conceded more goals than any other side in La Liga this season, with Raphinha playing a crucial role in helping to improve their defensive performance. His strong tackling has allowed him to win back balls and create space for his teammates, which has helped to keep the ball away from the opposition.
Another area where Raphinha has excelled is in creating chances for his teammates. He has played as a winger or attacking midfielder, and his ability to get into good positions on the pitch has led to several assists for his teammates. This has helped to create a more balanced attack for the team, with Raphinha providing a creative outlet for Lionel Messi and Gerard Piqué.
Overall, Raphinha's tackling ability and contribution to the team's defense and attack make him an important player for Barcelona. His performances suggest that he could be a valuable addition to any team looking to improve their defensive or attacking capabilities.