Key Highlights
- "I have a nasty habit of criticising myself heavily, so that pressure made me think about leaving."Speaking after Sunday's final, Raphinha admitted he had "struggled" during his first seasons with Barcelona, drawing parallels with team-mate Ronald Araujo, who returned to the bench for the final after taking time off to work on his mental wellbeing. But Raphinha's goal contributions have increased dramatically, his tactical role has expanded, and his importance to the team is no longer questioned.
- Once a debated squad option, the now 29-year-old has become one of Barcelona's most dependable performers and a decisive figure in their biggest matches. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementBarcelona beat Real Madrid to retain Spanish Super CupFrom almost quitting football to Ballon d'Or hope - Raphinha's rebirthLet's talk numbers... The most striking difference is in the numbers.
- Raphinha's goals and assists have grown steadily each season, particularly during the last campaign and into the current one. Crucially, he has developed a habit of delivering on the biggest occasions, scoring twice in the Super Cup final, having scored two in the semi-final.
- His last-minute winner in the club's 5-4 Champions League group stage win in Benfica last season was a key moment for him. In his debut season at Barcelona in 2022–23, Raphinha registered a combined total of 14 goals and assists.
- That figure rose modestly to 15 in his second year, before almost doubling last season 27 goal contributions. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementThat improvement coincided with a sharp increase in his playing time, as he more than doubled his total minutes on the pitch compared with the previous campaign. As Barcelona fan Carlos puts it: "He constantly breaks away to create attacking options, he's generous with his passing, and most importantly, his accuracy has improved massively over the years."The influence of Hansi FlickHansi Flick was Xavi's successor at Barcelona []Since Flick replaced Xavi as Barcelona manager in May 2024, Raphinha's goal and assist contribution has increased dramatically. Raphinha attributed his improvement to Flick's belief in him."If Hansi Flick hadn't come, I would have left Barca.