Atletico Madrid boss Diego Simeone has highlighted what the Barcelona star is most concerned about heading into this weekend's match.
The two rivals will battle it out in Catalonia in an eye-catching end-of-year showdown, with the home side only ahead of Los Rojiblancos at the top of the table on goal difference.
Barcelona are also struggling for form, with just one win in their last six league games, and the visitors are on an 11-match winning streak in all competitions.
A win for both teams will put them at the top of the table in early 2025, so the stakes are sky-high.
Ahead of his first La Liga win as manager at Barcelona, Simeone has identified Raphinha as the key star to stop – with Lamine Yamal injured.
“We are facing a team that is playing very well. I like the youth they have in the middle of the field, with children who are playing very good football,” said Mundo Deportivo.
“Raphinha is one of the best players in La Liga, because of his courage and his way of playing.”
Raphinha has been in sensational form for Barcelona this season – with 11 league goals scored – and 17 in all competitions, but he has never scored against Atletico Madrid.
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