Raphinha sends out strong message after Barcelona’s defeat to Girona

Barcelona winger Raphinha has issued a defiant rallying cry after Monday night’s 2-1 La Liga loss to Girona, insisting the squad will “play against everyone” if necessary to keep their title hopes alive.

Returning from injury, the Brazilian started at Montilivi but could not prevent Hansi Flick’s side from slipping to a second consecutive setback. The decisive moment arrived late on when Fran Beltran struck what proved to be the winner, a goal that came after Jules Kounde appeared to be fouled in the build-up. Refereeing officials declined to intervene, and VAR was not summoned to review the incident.

Taking to social media after the final whistle, Raphinha voiced his frustration while underlining the team’s resolve.

“Well, we have many things to improve, but not just us,” he wrote. “It’s very complicated when the rules are different, whether they’re in your favor or against you, but if we have to play against everyone to win, so be it… We’ll do it. Visca el Barça always.”

The result leaves Barcelona reflecting on back-to-back disappointing performances at a crucial stage of the campaign. Although the Catalonian side created enough chances to have secured victory by the interval, defensive lapses and the contentious nature of Girona’s second goal ultimately proved costly.

Flick admitted his players “were too open” during the contest, while one defender conceded the team “played a bad game,” acknowledging that the performance fell well below the required standard.

Amid the gloom, the club received a welcome boost with Raphinha’s return to fitness. Midfielder Pedri could also be available for the upcoming weekend meeting with Levante, offering the coach fresh options as the season enters its decisive stretch.

Barcelona now face the challenge of regaining momentum quickly, aware that further slips could derail their ambitions in both domestic and European competitions.