Raphinha Shines in Career-Best Season, Driving Barcelona’s Champions League Push
In Barcelona’s thrilling 3-3 draw against Inter Milan in the Champions League semi-final first leg, Raphinha played a vital yet understated role in the team’s third goal. Although the official record lists it as an own goal by Inter keeper Yann Sommer—after Raphinha’s powerful shot bounced off the crossbar and deflected off Sommer—the Brazilian’s impact was undeniable.
Despite not being credited for that goal, Raphinha’s overall performance in the competition has been exceptional. The winger has now registered 12 goals and nine assists in 13 European matches this season—contributing directly to 21 goals. To put that into perspective, Inter Milan as a team have only scored 22 in the entire tournament. Remarkably, Raphinha has surpassed Lionel Messi’s best Champions League season for Barcelona, where the Argentine legend had 19 goal involvements.
Across all competitions, Raphinha has delivered a phenomenal 31 goals and 25 assists in 52 appearances, helping Barcelona claim the Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup and stay in the hunt for a potential quadruple. His form has been pivotal in the club’s journey toward their first Champions League final since 2015.
Raphinha credits his resurgence to manager Hansi Flick. “He changed everything for me,” said the winger, revealing he almost left the club at the start of the season. Flick’s faith reignited his motivation, encouraging him to stay and thrive in a new role on the left flank—despite Lamine Yamal’s rise on the right.
Signed in 2022 amid Barcelona’s financial restructuring, Raphinha initially showed promise but struggled with inconsistency. Last season was underwhelming for both player and club, prompting transfer speculation. But Flick’s high-pressing system and belief in Raphinha turned the tide.
Now a leader in a young squad, Raphinha has become a Ballon d’Or contender. Even after a strong performance against Inter, he remains grounded and focused, vowing to continue his relentless form at the San Siro as Barcelona aim to return to Europe’s biggest stage.
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