Raphinha is enjoying the best season of his professional career, with Brazil national team coach Dorival Junior hailing the Barcelona winger as a “Ballon d’Or contender”.
The Brazilian star has been in sensational form for Barcelona this season, scoring his 25th goal of the campaign during the Champions League knockout victory over Benfica on Wednesday night. Across all competitions, the 28-year-old has registered 41 goal contributions in 40 matches, nearly doubling his previous best tally of 21 goal involvements.
From Criticism to Stardom
Raphinha’s rise to stardom hasn’t always been smooth. He endured heavy criticism during the Copa America last summer, where Brazil suffered a shock quarter-final exit to Uruguay. His performances were underwhelming, and both Barcelona and the player reportedly considered parting ways.
However, incoming manager Hansi Flick convinced the Brazilian to stay at Camp Nou. Flick’s decision to tweak Raphinha’s role has proved pivotal, shifting him to the left flank and allowing him to roam freely across the attacking third.
Dorival Junior’s Praise
Speaking during the announcement of Brazil’s squad for the March international break, Dorival Junior was full of praise for the Barcelona forward:
“Raphinha is a Ballon d’Or contender. He faced heavy criticism during the Copa America, and now he’s one of the best players in the world.”
Raphinha’s Impact at Barcelona
The former Leeds United star has been Barcelona’s standout performer this season, stepping up in the absence of injured talisman Robert Lewandowski. His combination of speed, skill, and tireless work rate has made him a key figure in Barcelona’s title push.
Osasuna coach Vicente Moreno also heaped praise on Raphinha ahead of this weekend’s La Liga clash:
“Raphinha is underrated. I see him as one of the best in the world, if not the best, with more influence in both offensive and defensive play.”
Ballon d’Or Contender?
With Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo entering the twilight of their careers, the race for the Ballon d’Or is more open than ever. If Raphinha maintains his current form and helps Barcelona to Champions League and La Liga glory, his chances of being in the final shortlist will only grow.
With the backing of his national team coach and his club manager, Raphinha is finally getting the recognition his talents deserve.
