Barcelona superstar confident of comeback against Atletico Madrid – ‘We’re capable of doing it’

Barcelona captain Raphinha has issued a defiant rallying cry ahead of next week’s Copa del Rey semi-final second leg, insisting the Blaugrana possess both the belief and the quality to overturn a 4-0 deficit against Atlético Madrid.

Speaking during a live fan Q&A on the club’s official YouTube channel, the Brazilian winger acknowledged the shock of last week’s heavy loss at the Metropolitano but stressed that spirits inside the dressing room remain unbroken.

“We trust we can play a great match. We believe we’re capable of doing it. If there’s one team that can come back, it’s us,” Raphinha said, looking directly into the camera. “We know it will be difficult, a very complicated comeback, but I think we’re ready for what’s coming.”

The 30-year-old, now in his fourth season in Catalonia, has evolved into a senior voice within Hansi Flick’s squad and credits the squad’s tight-knit culture for their recent resilience.

“The dressing room is great. The players get along really well. We’re like a family. We spend more time together than with our actual families, with trips and training,” he explained. “There’s genuine friendship here, and I think a big part of our success comes from that.”

Wearing the captain’s armband for a second consecutive campaign, Raphinha admitted the honour still feels surreal.

“Being one of Barça’s captains means a lot. Since I arrived, I’ve tried to help however I can. Being captain of Barça happens to very few players. It’s a huge privilege. I couldn’t have imagined it even in my wildest dreams.”

The forward’s personal campaign has been interrupted by injury, causing him to miss 13 matches and sit unused on the bench twice, a stark contrast to last season when he was directly involved in 60 goals and featured in almost every game.

“I’ve been through difficult moments. Players hate injuries because we can’t do what we love. They’re very demanding mentally,” he confessed. “Sometimes you can’t even explain why you got injured. It’s a very hard moment.”

Nevertheless, Raphinha was quick to reassure supporters that he is nearing peak condition ahead of the decisive return leg at Spotify Camp Nou.

“I feel in very good shape, mentally and physically. I’m trying to get back to my best after the injury. It’s never easy to be at 100% straight away. But mentally I feel great, and physically I’m getting close to my best version.”

With Barcelona needing a miraculous performance to keep their Copa del Rey defence alive, the Brazilian’s words will serve as both a promise to fans and a warning to Atlético that the tie is not over yet.