Former Barcelona player Ivan Rakitic has addressed the recent reported fracas between Raphinha and Marc-André ter Stegen to affirm that he is certain that the matter was resolved in the interest of the team.
Ahead of Barcelona’s Champions League quarter-final clash against Borussia Dortmund, Rakitic, a former teammate of Ter Stegen at Camp Nou, admitted that he was unaware of the nature of the altercation but was certain of the disciplinary behavior of the goalkeeper, as reported by Diario Sport.
I would rather have known what was said in the dressing room because, with Marc, the row continued off-camera,” Ivan Rakitic said.
He played down the incident, adding, “I’m sure the two of them agreed for the good of the team.”
His words came before Barcelona’s fiery European game, where harmony would be crucial.
Ivan Rakitic also had his say on Fermín López’s introduction to the starting eleven as an “interesting” move by manager Hansi Flick.
The Croatian’s observation suggested that Barcelona’s tactical adaptability was going to be the solution to beating Dortmund.
He also cautioned against getting too excited in the Champions League, reminding everyone of the recent lesson of Real Madrid that knockout football is a mercurial beast.
His words were indeed prophetic as Barcelona produced a thorough 4-0 win, with Raphinha netting the first goal—a poignant reminder that any previous tension hadn’t affected his game.
Robert Lewandowski scored a double, and teenage sensation Lamine Yamal wrapped up the win, looking back on the team’s overall strength.
Rakitic’s sensitivity to dressing room culture opened up the potential in the team, showing that even the slightest of disagreements are soon forgotten in the pursuit of victory.
With the semi-finals now within reach, Barcelona’s capacity to overcome on-pitch issues and off-pitch issues can be the difference-maker in their Champions League ambitions.
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