There is no doubt that Raphinha, also known as Raphael Dias Belloli, had an outstanding run with FC Barcelona during the 24/25 season. From scoring late winners in the Champions League against Benfica, to helping Barcelona win La Liga, Raphinha undeniably captured the attention of many worldwide football fans. But the question remains: was Raphinha denied the remarkable trophy he deserved?
Born in Porto Alegre, Brazil, Raphinha was labelled ‘too small’ and ‘too thin’ in his youth, demotivating him from pursuing his dreams of becoming a professional footballer. Rejected by Grêmio and Internacional at just 18 years old, Raphinha joined Campeonato Brasilerio Série B side Avaí FC, where he soon became injured and overlooked. With no offers or calls, Raphinha came close to quitting football altogether, until he eventually moved away from Brazil to Portugal to seek his full potential. From Victória Guimarães to Sporting CP, Raphinha eventually relocated to France to play for Stade Rennains. After a year with the Ligue 1 team, the persevering footballer moved to England’s Premier League side Leeds United, where he found his form under the Argentinian coach Marcelo Bielsa.
During his two years at Leeds United, Raphinha scored 17 goals and provided 12 assists for the team, ultimately helping the passionate club avoid relegation with his penalty against Brentford on the final day of the 2021/22 season. After his outstanding performances at Leeds United, he signed a 5 year contract with an initial fee of £50 million at FC Barcelona. Despite the drastic move, Raphinha struggled to find his form under coach Xavi and even struggled for minutes, reportedly saying “There were several moments where I thought about leaving.” Due to his patience and determination, Raphinha continued at Barcelona despite the backlash he was receiving from fans and the media. That was until May 2024, when Hansi Flick was appointed the new coach of Barcelona.
Under Flick, the winger gained new confidence and skill, where he scored 38 goals with an additional 24 assists during the 24/25 season, including international. Raphinha reported “Coach Flick changed my career; without him I wouldn't be here”. As well as creating 92 chances during the season, Raphinha helped Barcelona win the Spanish Super Cup and the Copa Del Rey against Real Madrid, where over the 4 times Barcelona faced Real Madrid last season, he scored 5 goals and had 2 assists.
From struggling for food on the streets of Restinga to being a Ballon d’Or contender, Raphinha's endurance and dedication resulted in an astounding football career with a phenomenal season at FC Barcelona. Fans argue that Raphinha was, without a question, ignored, underrated and disregarded when it came to the famous ceremony. After receiving 5th place, the hard work and striking goals did not give Raphinha the deserved recognition and admiration he earned. I believe Raphinha was in fact deprived of success and honour, due to the distinctive impact his victorious season left on not just Barcelona fans, but worldwide football fans.
The ultimate question is: does further greatness await Raphinha?
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