Barcelona, 6 November, 2026 (Ghufran): Brazilian forward Raphinha has emerged as a key attacking force for Barcelona, scoring an impressive 19 goals in 13 appearances across all competitions this season and easing concerns over the club’s failure to sign Argentine striker Julian Alvarez during the summer transfer window. Barcelona will travel to face Atletico Madrid in La Liga on Sunday, with Raphinha expected to play a central role as the Catalan side look to strengthen their position at the top of the standings. Alvarez had attempted to secure a move from Atletico to Barcelona, but the proposed transfer angered the Madrid club. Barcelona were subsequently fined around 600 euros by the Spanish Football Federation in October over their approach for the striker. After Alvarez remained at Atletico, Barcelona quickly adapted their plans, with coach Hansi Flick successfully deploying Raphinha in the centre-forward position. The Brazilian initially had reservations about playing as a striker, particularly because of the pressure associated with replacing Robert Lewandowski and adapting to playing with his back to goal. However, his performances have exceeded expectations, establishing him as one of Barcelona’s most influential players. Raphinha’s impressive form helped Barcelona win 11 consecutive matches across all competitions at the beginning of the season. The team later suffered back-to-back defeats against Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, with the Brazilian struggling to make his usual impact after sustaining a thigh injury while representing Brazil in September. He scored in the 2-1 defeat against Real Madrid but failed to produce his best performance. However, four goals in the subsequent matches against Alaves and Aston Villa demonstrated that he had fully recovered. His outstanding contributions were further rewarded on Thursday when he signed a contract extension with Barcelona until 2030. Since joining the club from Leeds United in 2022, Raphinha has transformed his career under Flick, whose high-pressing tactical approach has suited the Brazilian’s playing style. Despite experiencing difficulties under former coach Xavi Hernandez, he has developed into one of the team’s leading figures and captains. Meanwhile, Alvarez has struggled to establish himself at Atletico, scoring just two goals in 11 appearances, although his performances have improved in recent weeks. Barcelona currently lead La Liga, with second-placed Atletico Madrid trailing by two points ahead of Sunday’s encounter at the Metropolitano Stadium. The match will be particularly significant for Raphinha, who missed Barcelona’s Champions League quarter-final elimination against Atletico last season because of injury. With his confidence restored and a new contract secured, the Brazilian will be determined to lead Barcelona’s attack, overcome Atletico’s challenge and demonstrate that he is the striker the club needed.