Raphinha (left) dribbles before scoring in Barcelona's 5-1 victory over Feyenoord in the Champions League qualifying round on September 9, at Camp Nou, Barcelona, Spain. Photo: AP

After Barcelona's 3-1 win against Atletico in La Liga on 2/12/2025, coach Diego Simeone frankly shared that he did not understand why Raphinha had not won the Ballon d'Or. Such praise from a defeated opposing coach, fully convinced by his performance, indicates that the Brazilian forward is not only an important member of Barcelona but is also emerging as one of the best players in the world today.

Since Neymar's departure in 2017, the chapter of Brazilian stars at Camp Nou has seen many low points. High-profile signings like Philippe Coutinho, Malcom, and Arthur Melo all arrived and left in disappointment. However, Raphinha is an exception.

From his early days in Catalonia, the former Sporting and Leeds United player immediately left a significant mark. He scored 10 goals and provided 12 assists in 50 matches during his debut 2022-2023 season, directly contributing to the team's first La Liga title in the post-Lionel Messi era. The Brazilian forward maintained consistency the following season with 10 goals and 11 assists in 37 matches, before truly excelling and reaching peak performance under the guidance of coach Hansi Flick.

The subsequent statistics clearly demonstrate the number 11 forward's exceptional rise. In the 2024-2025 season, Raphinha scored 34 goals and registered 22 assists in 57 matches across all competitions. His devastating form continued into the 2025-2026 season with 21 goals and 7 assists in just 34 matches. Alongside his individual records, the 29-year-old star has also amassed an extensive trophy collection, including three La Liga titles, one Copa del Rey, and two Spanish Super Cups.

With these achievements, Raphinha has surpassed illustrious predecessors like Rivaldo, Ronaldinho, Neymar (two times), and Romario (one time) to become the Brazilian forward with the most La Liga titles in Barcelona's history. The only compatriot ahead of him in terms of domestic titles at Camp Nou is legendary defender Dani Alves, with 6.

Raphinha celebrates with teammates in a La Liga victory against Valencia at Mestalla, Valencia, Spain, on 6/9. Photo: AP

Raphinha's value and influence, however, extend beyond goals and titles. What Barcelona fans admire most is his strong personality and selfless dedication.

Originally a natural right-winger from his time at Leeds, Raphinha accepted stepping back and ceding that flank when young talent Lamine Yamal emerged and claimed the position. Instead of showing dissatisfaction, he quietly moved to the left wing, adapted perfectly, and continued to shine brightly. This season, Raphinha once again astonished experts with his exceptional problem-solving ability.

When the club was unsuccessful in their pursuit of Julian Alvarez to replace Robert Lewandowski, the Brazilian forward was immediately deployed as a central striker. He excellently transformed into a model number 9, scoring 8 goals and providing three assists in just 6 matches. This outstanding adaptability not only helped Barcelona maintain their dominance at the top of La Liga but also completely resolved the attacking personnel issue, while sending a strong rebuttal to Atletico Madrid or any other team attempting to overprice players for the Catalan giants.

Beyond serving as a tactical savior on the pitch, Raphinha's strong personality and far-reaching influence in the locker room have made him an undisputed leader of the Barcelona squad under Flick's era. After central defender Ronald Araujo's departure, the number 11 forward took over the captain's armband. This decision stemmed not only from the German strategist's absolute trust but also reflected a strong consensus from his teammates' votes. Raphinha embodies the high-intensity football culture, winning desire, and unyielding fighting spirit that Flick aims to build.

The Brazilian star's leadership stature is most evident in inspirational behind-the-scenes moments. Before the Spanish Super Cup final, Raphinha's fiery speech in the locker room moved the entire team. He recalled past failures, urging his teammates to view the match as a "battle" to defend Barcelona's pride and prove their class.

Furthermore, on the field, the 29-year-old captain is consistently seen as a steadfast emotional support for young talents. For instance, when Lamine Yamal struggled with his form, Raphinha proactively encouraged and reinvigorated his spirits, subsequently witnessing the number 10's resurgence.

Raphinha and Lamine Yamal participate in the La Liga championship parade in Barcelona, Spain, on 11/5. Photo: AP

His humility, versatility, and dedication are transforming Raphinha into a new legend of Camp Nou. He may not possess a Ballon d'Or or prestigious Champions League trophies like Rivaldo or Ronaldinho once did, but the captain's armband he wears has become a symbol of an invaluable source of morale, elevating him into the pantheon of icons in the hearts of fans.

Commenting on his stature, the Madrid-based newspaper AS once remarked: "When Raphinha first arrived in Spain, people thought he might just be another Angel Di Maria. But now, he is proving himself to be one of the most important players in Barcelona's history."

Thanh Quy compiled