Both have not managed to convince in the first part of the season and are ‘forced’ to make a leap in terms of regularity and confidence in this first part of 2023
They are a firm commitment to the future of the club, which obviously understands that it is not necessary to rush; without Lewy, both will have more ancestry
For a part of Barcelona fans, a significant expenditure by a footballer is synonymous with expecting a great performance in a short period of time. If something is not superfluous in the Barça environment, it is patience. If a high amount is paid for someone rather than betting on a La Masia product, the requirement must be maximum. In this context, the last two ‘macro-operations’ for FC Barcelona have been Ferran Torres (65 million) and Raphinha (60). Two players called to be important in the present and in the future. Two figures in full bloom that their time at Barça should (must) catapult to offer a world TOP level.
Both the Brazilian and the Valencian have coincided in a context of certain ‘urgency’. With Barça in low hours at an economic level and orphan of references and ‘nails to hold on to’. In search of young talents capable of leading a project avid for foundations. From bases.
Torres landed last winter market after a titanic effort by Mateu and company to make bobbin lace in terms of financial ‘fair play’ it means. 65 million euros paid to Guardiola’s City. Raphael Dias Belloli, endorsed by Deco, his mentor and manager, arrived in July as a brash, brazen and talented winger who had kept Leeds afloat. Almost 60 ‘kilos’.
FERRAN LEAVES US SOMETHING COLD
With half a season more margin in the case of Foios, both agree on the fact that in their first months they have not been able to settle down or convince. They have left sparkles, yes. Let’s remember Ferran’s great goal in the Cup against Athletic, for example. Or Raphinha’s great match against Valladolid. But they have not finished finding their place and being decisive. And, above all, to find a regularity.
DISCRETE NUMBERS
The numbers of the two attackers so far this season (between the national team and the club, but above all with the club) only support this feeling that they should take that step forward. Ferran, 27 official matches (15 with Barça, only seven of them as a starter)seven goals and two assists. Raphinha, 23 official matches (18 with Barça, 10 as a starter)two goals and four assists.
Obviously, there is and will be patience. But at the same time the demand for expectations and the disbursement made and a reasonable margin of time. Without a doubt, this first quarter of 2023 will be key for both.