RAPHINHA repeatedly PUNCHED Marcos Alonso’s seat in a meltdown after being subbed off against Manchester United.
The Europa League first-leg tie ended all square at the Nou Camp after Raphinha made it 2-2 on the night.
But the Brazilian was left fuming after he made way for Ferran Torres on 83 minutes.
Raphinha’s frustrations were evident on the subs bench as he took his anger out on Alonso’s seat.
But he did apologise to manager Xavi afterwards – despite not needing to.
Xavi said: “I see and understand Raphinha’s anger, I was also angry. I make the changes thinking about the team and not to point fingers at anyone
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“Raphinha has apologised to me but he didn’t have to. I see it as a positive that everyone wants to play.”
Alonso headed Barca 1-0 up on 50 minutes but just moments later Marcus Rashford levelled.
And Rashford had a part in putting United 2-1 up after his cross was diverted in by defender Jules Kounde.
Kounde’s blushes were sparred by Raphinha, whose curled cross sailed all the way in.
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United boss Erik ten Hag claimed the game was so good it was more fitting for Champions League football.
He said: “I think we dictated the game. Apart from maybe 15 minutes of the first half, we had some difficulties, but for the rest, we dictated the game and we outplayed [them], so many chances, so I was a little bit disappointed that in half-time it was 0-0 because we should have scored.
“The opportunities they had, we created by ourselves. But I think it was a great game, two attacking teams, I think it was really Champions League [level] and even more than that.
“So I really enjoyed the game a lot. In the end, 2-2, and we have to finish it at Old Trafford.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
