Given the current Barcelona transfer rumours, Raphinha’s celebration was always likely to attract attention.
After scoring, the Brazilian celebrated by mimicking Spider-Man and appeared to shoot a web from his hands.
It immediately led to speculation among supporters, largely because Atlético Madrid striker Julian Alvarez is widely known as La Araña – the Spider – and has been .
That put an end to the Alvarez theories, although the timing made the misunderstanding understandable.
Lamine Yamal’s difficult night ended with tears
Barcelona scored five goals, but it was not a night to remember for everyone.
Lamine Yamal was unable to make the same impact he usually does and appeared to take his performance personally. The young winger did not score and looked visibly disappointed when he was substituted.
As seen during the match, Lamine was left in tears and struggled to hide his frustration.
Raphinha went over to comfort him, while members of Barcelona’s coaching staff also tried to lift his spirits when he reached the bench.
For most players, being part of a 5-0 opening-day victory would be enough to walk away smiling. Lamine, however, appeared to be thinking about the moments that did not go his way.
He was still visibly reflective after the final whistle, even as the rest of the team celebrated a huge result.
For what it is worth, though, there is absolutely no need to overanalyse one difficult performance.
If anything, the reaction showed the mentality of a player who expects a lot from himself every time he steps onto the pitch.
Elche’s technical problems caused chaos
A technological malfunction happened at Martinez Valero during Elche vs Barcelona. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images)
While Barcelona were busy scoring goals, there was a very different battle taking place away from the pitch.
According to
