Barcelona has taken back the top spot in La Liga after the most recent round of games, largely because to Robert Lewandowski’s reliability.
With 35 goals in 20 games, the Polish striker has been a consistent goal scorer, demonstrating that experience is still crucial in the quest for the championship.
Although Lamine Yamal, the dribbling king of Europe’s top five leagues, is still a serious contender in the race for Barcelona’s “second protagonist,” Raphinha has risen to the top of the Ballon d’Or betting odds thanks to his outstanding achievements this season.
Raphinha Hits His Highest Point: A Real Ballon d’Or Candidate?
Raphinha’s impact this season has been evident based on his stats:
42 games in all competitions, 27 goals, and 18 assists, as well as 128 games for Barcelona, where he scored 47 goals and provided 44 assists.
This indicates that he has already tied the record for goals scored by Ronaldo Nazário at Barcelona.
Raphinha is close to signing a contract extension, guaranteeing a longer stay at Camp Nou than the Brazilian legend’s brief tenure.
Raphinha scored a hat-trick against Bayern Munich in the Champions League, becoming the first player in La Liga this season to do so. He contributed a goal and an assist against Real Madrid in El Clásico.
He supplied two crucial assists against Atletico Madrid and scored twice versus Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup final.
An unprecedented Champions League phenomenon:
- Barcelona’s best-ever goal contribution average of one every 75 minutes
- Currently ahead of Kane, Lewandowski, and Mbappé on the UCL best scoring list
- Currently leading the Champions League in average match ratings
Barcelona has historically depended on youthful talent, but Raphinha has shown that consistency and maturity can equally garner attention.
Raphinha’s All-Round Magnitude Exceeds Goals
Manager Hansi Flick has praised Raphinha’s defensive work rate and intensity, demonstrating that he is more than just an offensive asset.
He has excelled in a variety of tournaments thanks to his all-around contributions:
- The first player to generate 50 opportunities in all competitions in Europe’s top five leagues
- This season’s top creator of chances in the Champions League
- La Liga, Champions League, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup are the only four major competitions in which a player has scored and provided an assist
These numbers demonstrate that Raphinha is more than just a prolific winger; his leadership, adaptability, and consistency have solidified his place among Barcelona’s most vital players.
Break Messi’s Records? Raphinha makes Barca history
Even though there is still a chance to win the Ballon d’Or, Raphinha has already had a big impact on Barcelona’s history.
He is the first Barcelona player to record 20+ assists in a single season since Lionel Messi in 2019–20. His goal total this season is second only to Messi in Barcelona’s recent history.
He has the ability to become Barcelona’s next attacking talisman and smash multiple club records if he keeps up his present form.
Can Barcelona Win the Champions League with Raphinha?
Barcelona faces Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League knockout stages, which will be their biggest challenge despite their dominant position in La Liga.
Raphinha demonstrated his ability to perform well under pressure by dominating the last time he faced Dortmund with a goal, two successful dribbles, and two crucial passes.
The crucial question is whether Borussia Dortmund will allow Raphinha to have another chance to shine or if they will be able to thwart the Catalan giants.
A Deal Signing: Raphinha’s Increasing Worth
Raphinha’s market value has soared to €80 million after Barcelona paid just €58 million for him. He makes only €13 million year, which is much less than some of his failing teammates.
In contrast, Frenkie de Jong, who receives a salary of €19 million, has only scored twice and contributed one assist this season, while Ansu Fati, who makes €14 million annually, has had difficulty becoming a major player.
Raphinha has been one of Barcelona’s most valued acquisitions in recent years, both monetarily and in terms of performance.
From Possible Departure to Priceless Star
Raphinha’s time at Barcelona has not been easy.Before earning his transfer to Barcelona, he had to establish himself at Vitória Guimarães, Sporting CP, Rennes, and Leeds United.
Nine years ago, his market value was only €600,000. At first, he was close to leaving Barcelona since Chelsea, Manchester United, and Manchester City were all interested.
Nevertheless, he has developed into a vital member of the team via perseverance and hard effort.
Can Raphinha Lead Barcelona to a Historic Season?
Even though he is a frontrunner to win the Ballon d’Or, his greatest obstacle is still to come:
- Can Barcelona maintain their advantage in La Liga?
- Can they defeat Dortmund and get to the Champions League finals?
Raphinha is demonstrating that he is headed toward greatness by his performances, statistics, and mindset. The Ballon d’Or might be within his grasp if he can bring silverware.
Is Raphinha capable of leading Barcelona to Champions League success? Will he take home the Ballon d’Or?
