Jordi Alba may have hung up his Barcelona boots three years ago, but the club clearly still runs through his veins. The former left-back has been watching Hansi Flick's squad closely, and he's not shy about sharing his admiration for the current team.

When asked to name his favorite players in this rejuvenated Barcelona side, Alba didn't hesitate. "I really like Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Gavi, Eric… and Flick, who is a coach doing very well," he told La Vanguardia. But it was one name that stood out above the rest.

"I think Raphinha has taken a big step forward since I left and since Flick's arrival," Alba revealed. "At first he didn't have a good time—it was difficult for him to adapt and he didn't play what he wanted. Now I see him motivated, with a lot of confidence and wanting to be important at the club."

It's high praise from a legendary figure who knows what it takes to thrive at the Camp Nou. And the numbers back it up: despite a season disrupted by injury, Raphinha has already racked up 19 goals in all competitions. The Brazilian winger is expected to return from his latest setback just in time for Sunday's El Clásico—a game that could define Barcelona's season.

For fans looking to channel that same confidence and drive, Raphinha's resurgence is a reminder that patience and belief can turn things around. Whether you're hitting the pitch or cheering from the stands, that kind of motivation is worth wearing on your sleeve.