Marc Bernal praises Raphinha after Barcelona victory against Rayo Vallecano

Barcelona midfielder Marc Bernal publicly commended captain Raphinha following his performance in Monday’s 5-2 La Liga victory over Rayo Vallecano. Raphinha scored a brace in the match, continuing a strong start to the season that has seen him register five goals while operating as the team’s center forward. Bernal noted that the Brazilian serves as a mentor to younger players within the squad and provides an approachable leadership style. The match also saw teenager Lamine Yamal score his first goals of the current campaign. Hansi Flick’s side now prepares for a league fixture against Valencia this Sunday before shifting focus to the opening of their Champions League campaign against Feyenoord.

• 3:00 AMYahoo Sports — ‘We want a captain like that’ – Marc Bernal hails Raphinha after Barcelona brace