From Barcelona to Brazil: Raphinha Keeps His Role Under Ancelotti

Italian coach Carlo Ancelotti, head coach of Brazil, has chosen to adopt the same tactical approach used by Hans-Dieter Flick, coach of FC Barcelona, with winger Raphinha, giving him greater freedom to drift in from the left flank and move toward the middle to help create chances.

More Freedom in Positioning

At Barcelona, Flick relies on the principle of not locking Raphinha into a fixed position out wide, instead letting him drift inside to create numerical superiority and link up with teammates — the same recipe Ancelotti has begun applying with the player for the Seleção.

Positive Results at International Level

The tactical shift has had a positive effect on Raphinha's performances with his national team, with the Brazilian becoming more influential in the final stages of attacking moves, boosted by the trust Ancelotti places in him and the strong overlap between his roles at club and international level.

Key Facts

• Ancelotti applies the same positional policy as Flick with Raphinha.
• The player enjoys greater freedom to drift toward the center.
• The overlap between his club and national team roles boosts his confidence.
• The tactical shift has improved his impact in the final third.