The young "Barcelona" defender Rafinha, who hosted the press conference, expressed his joy at the trust shown to him by head coach Luis Enrique and noted that he can play even better.
The Catalonia team's strategist confidently included the footballer in the starting lineup in the two Spanish league matches against "Elche" and "Villarreal." Although Rafinha was substituted in the second half of both matches, he justified the coach's expectations.
"For me, this is unexpected. I am surprised by the trust the coach has in me. I believe I can play better. I will not lack motivation on the field or the desire to improve in training," Rafinha noted, also expressing his delight at the progress of forward Sandro Ramirez and especially Munir El Haddadi.
Last season, the player was loaned to Celta Vigo, where Luis Enrique, now at "Barcelona," was coaching at the time.
The coach wanted Rafinha to return to his native team, and the defender himself says that the year spent in Galicia was beneficial for him.
"It is priceless experience for me. I learned a lot, and now that I have returned to 'Barcelona,' I think it is somewhat easier for me than for other team players. At least because I know the coach better and know his methods of work.
Rafinha spoke respectfully about the future opponents of "Barcelona" in the Spanish league. This weekend, the Catalans will face Athletic Bilbao at their home Camp Nou stadium.
"They are a physically very strong team, liking physical and tough football. In addition, 'Athletic' very often press opponents who have the ball actively and closely, so we must play focused for the full 90 minutes," said the defender.
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