Raphinha has missed a couple of games for Barcelona this season, and has had a number of substitute appearances as well.

Xavi has however insisted that the Brazilian is a key part of his team, and will play a key role this season too.

“Raphinha will be very important,” Xavi has told the media ahead of the Mallorca clash.

“He hasn’t played so much because he was suspended. He couldn’t play as much as the other players, but he will be very important throughout the season.”

Raphinha picked up a red card in our opening game against Getafe, away from home. Since then, he has made 4 appearances in which he scored one goal and provided 2 assists.