Raphinha: “I’ve been seeing a psychologist for three years”
The Barcelona player opened up about what was previously was a taboo subject: “Some people believe that it’s only for people who have problems with their heads, but that’s not the case”.
Just at the point when he is possibly enjoying his best moment of the season, Raphael Dias Belloli, more commonly known as Raphinha, gave an interview to Catalunya Ràdio in which he candidly opened up about what for many players, even today, is a taboo subject.
“Three years ago I started psychological treatment (later he clarified that they were consultations). Previously, I saw it as something for crazy people, but once I saw how important it is for a football player and a professional, I decided to take the step. There are people who believe that it is only for people who have mental problems but I think that it is important to know what is happening with you. I have been seeing a psychologist for years. I see it as very important,” said the Brazilian, who confessed that he was already attending consultations during his time at Rennes and Leeds.
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Raphinha also revealed a ‘secret’ surrounding the most memorable moment of the recent match against Valencia - the discussion by the penalty spot to see which player would take the kick. “Of course I like to take penalties. I’ve been practicing them since I was at Vitoria Guimarães, because I used to miss quite a few of them. It’s the coach who decides who takes the penalties. There is a list and I was second on it for the Valencia game. But for Ferran, it’s also important to take them and to score. Only one player can miss a penalty - the one who takes it” (In the end, Ferran took it, but dragged his shot just wide of the post).
Happiest on the right wing
The Brazilian also spoke about his preference for playing on the left, although he admitted that it is something that he has already discussed with Xavi: “I haven’t played on the left for a long, long time. Almost five years ago. I adapted to playing on the right and I like playing there more now. The problem is that when you arrive at a new club, it is important to play in your place to adapt and play well. But I spoke with the coach and if he puts me on the left, I’ll do it because I want to continue helping the team - even if he wants to play me as the goalkeeper, I will”.
Raphina is hungry to win silverware with Barça: “If people are not excited about the league, they shouldn’t be here. We know that we have to improve a lot, but we have won difficult matches, and that’s not easy for anyone in LaLiga”.