Rafinha: Messi? He's the best player in the world, it's that simple

Rafinha starred in Barcelona's 4-0 win over Deportivo La Courna on Saturday, scoring two goals to take his tally to the season for four. His first goal was key as it broke down the visitor’s resistance and made things easier for the rest of the game. 

“They were closed off at the back and it was difficult to break through. We know it would be a struggle to get the first goal,” he said to Movistar+ after the game. 

Rafinha said that the change of the system, to a back three, is not a problem and the players are able to adapt to the tactical switches. Without Sergi Roberto, there was no natural right-back.

He added: “It wasn’t more difficult [to play in a different formation], the work done by the other team also has to be taken into account. It was about looking for spaces. We’re accustomed to having to change positions.” 

The midfielder also praised the return of Lionel Messi from a groin injury: “Messi? He’s the best player in the world. It’s that simple. Three minutes on the pitch and a goal.” 

Finally he backed Paco Alcacer to score soon, despite missing three chances against Depor: “He’s just lacking the ball going in the goal and once it does, many goals will follow. We’ve already said that. He is a born goal scorer and has a nose for goal.”