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12 Mar 2025, Wed

Raphinha shines at Barcelona, scores 25 goals and enters the race for the Ballon d’Or

Raphinha Barcelona


Brazilian forward Raphinha is having a standout season at Barcelona and is establishing himself as one of the top names in European football in 2024/2025. Under coach Hansi Flick, the player has delivered a high level of performance, accumulating impressive statistics and playing a crucial role in the Catalan club’s campaigns in the Champions League, La Liga, and the Copa del Rey. His numbers strengthen his case for the Ballon d’Or, awarded by France Football to the best player in the world. With 25 goals and 18 assists in 40 matches, Raphinha has become one of the key pillars of the team, showcasing his ability to make an impact in decisive moments.

Coach Hansi Flick did not hold back in his praise for the Brazilian during a press conference ahead of the Champions League clash against Benfica. The German manager highlighted Raphinha’s influence on the team and his continuous improvement throughout the season. Initially arriving at Barcelona amid some skepticism, the forward has cemented his place in the squad, overcoming competition and demonstrating remarkable consistency.

Beyond his club performances, Raphinha has also caught the attention of the Brazilian national team. He was recently called up by coach Dorival Júnior for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina. His club form solidifies his role as a key player in the national team’s new generation, positioning him as a crucial figure in Brazil’s path to the next World Cup.

Offensive impact and impressive season statistics

Raphinha’s numbers in the 2024/2025 season reflect his direct influence on Barcelona’s results. With 25 goals and 18 assists in 40 matches, the forward is currently the second-highest scorer in the Champions League, with nine goals, trailing only Borussia Dortmund’s Guirassy. In addition, his ability to create chances and finish plays makes him one of the most decisive players in the squad.

  • Direct goal involvement: 43 contributions (goals + assists) this season.
  • Champions League second-top scorer: 9 goals in the competition.
  • Goals in El Clásico: 1 goal and 1 assist against Real Madrid.
  • Hat-tricks this season: 2 games with three goals scored.

Raphinha has been a vital piece in Hansi Flick’s tactical system, ranking among the players with the most shots and goal-creating actions. His offensive contribution goes beyond just scoring goals; his ability to influence the team’s play in crucial moments has been a defining trait of his performances.

Tactical evolution and influence on Barcelona’s system

Hansi Flick’s arrival at Barcelona has brought significant changes to the team’s playing style, directly impacting Raphinha’s performance. The German coach has implemented a new tactical approach that favors the forward’s movement, allowing him to operate in different areas of the pitch and fully utilize his skill set.

  • More central positioning: Playing closer to the box, Raphinha has more freedom to finish plays.
  • Greater defensive contribution: The player has improved in tracking back and pressing opponents.
  • Better decision-making: Fewer errors in passing and shooting accuracy.

These tactical adjustments have been crucial in helping the Brazilian reach his best form since joining the Catalan club. Beyond becoming an attacking leader, he has shown maturity on the field, making himself indispensable in Flick’s strategy.

Key moments in the 2024/2025 season

Raphinha has been a standout performer in several crucial matches throughout the season. Some of his most remarkable performances have helped Barcelona remain competitive across all competitions.

  • August 31, 2024: Scored his first hat-trick for Barcelona in a 7-0 win over Real Valladolid.
  • October 23, 2024: Netted three goals in a 4-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
  • January 4, 2025: Scored one goal and provided an assist in a 4-0 win over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
  • February 15, 2025: Scored the decisive goal against Atlético Madrid in a 2-1 win.

These performances reinforce the Brazilian’s importance to the squad and his ability to shine in high-stakes encounters. His consistency and impact in top-level matches further strengthen his case for the best player award.

Ballon d’Or contention and comparisons with competitors

Raphinha’s incredible form has drawn comparisons with other players in the Ballon d’Or race. While stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Erling Haaland are also strong contenders, the Brazilian has solid arguments to remain among the favorites.

  • Mbappé: Standout for Paris Saint-Germain but inconsistent in the Champions League.
  • Bellingham: Real Madrid midfielder with impressive stats but fewer goals and assists.
  • Haaland: Maintains high standards at Manchester City but with less creative influence.

If the Barcelona forward continues at his current pace in terms of goals and assists, his chances of securing a top spot in the Ballon d’Or rankings will significantly increase. Additionally, his involvement in multiple competitions enhances his global visibility.

Contribution to the Brazilian national team and upcoming challenges

Raphinha’s performances at Barcelona have earned him a spot as one of the key players in Brazil’s national team under coach Dorival Júnior. As the team prepares for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, the forward’s experience and current form make him a vital asset.

  • Recent call-up: Selected for the matches against Colombia and Argentina.
  • Tactical importance: A versatile option for different attacking roles.
  • World Cup 2026 prospects: Expected to play a key role in Brazil’s journey to the tournament.

His performances in international fixtures will be crucial in cementing his status as one of the world’s best players this season. Consistently maintaining his high standards could define his impact at both club and national levels.

Expectations for the final stretch of the season

With Barcelona still competing in the main tournaments, the expectation is that Raphinha will continue to be one of the team’s leading figures. The final stretch of the season will be crucial in determining his future in the Ballon d’Or race and his status in world football.

  • Champions League: Barcelona faces Benfica aiming for a spot in the quarterfinals.
  • La Liga: The Catalan club leads the competition and seeks to maintain its advantage.
  • Copa del Rey: The team is in the semifinals, targeting another title this season.

Raphinha’s performances in the upcoming matches could be decisive in securing key trophies for Barcelona and further strengthening his place among football’s elite.



Brazilian forward Raphinha is having a standout season at Barcelona and is establishing himself as one of the top names in European football in 2024/2025. Under coach Hansi Flick, the player has delivered a high level of performance, accumulating impressive statistics and playing a crucial role in the Catalan club’s campaigns in the Champions League, La Liga, and the Copa del Rey. His numbers strengthen his case for the Ballon d’Or, awarded by France Football to the best player in the world. With 25 goals and 18 assists in 40 matches, Raphinha has become one of the key pillars of the team, showcasing his ability to make an impact in decisive moments.

Coach Hansi Flick did not hold back in his praise for the Brazilian during a press conference ahead of the Champions League clash against Benfica. The German manager highlighted Raphinha’s influence on the team and his continuous improvement throughout the season. Initially arriving at Barcelona amid some skepticism, the forward has cemented his place in the squad, overcoming competition and demonstrating remarkable consistency.

Beyond his club performances, Raphinha has also caught the attention of the Brazilian national team. He was recently called up by coach Dorival Júnior for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Argentina. His club form solidifies his role as a key player in the national team’s new generation, positioning him as a crucial figure in Brazil’s path to the next World Cup.

Offensive impact and impressive season statistics

Raphinha’s numbers in the 2024/2025 season reflect his direct influence on Barcelona’s results. With 25 goals and 18 assists in 40 matches, the forward is currently the second-highest scorer in the Champions League, with nine goals, trailing only Borussia Dortmund’s Guirassy. In addition, his ability to create chances and finish plays makes him one of the most decisive players in the squad.

  • Direct goal involvement: 43 contributions (goals + assists) this season.
  • Champions League second-top scorer: 9 goals in the competition.
  • Goals in El Clásico: 1 goal and 1 assist against Real Madrid.
  • Hat-tricks this season: 2 games with three goals scored.

Raphinha has been a vital piece in Hansi Flick’s tactical system, ranking among the players with the most shots and goal-creating actions. His offensive contribution goes beyond just scoring goals; his ability to influence the team’s play in crucial moments has been a defining trait of his performances.

Tactical evolution and influence on Barcelona’s system

Hansi Flick’s arrival at Barcelona has brought significant changes to the team’s playing style, directly impacting Raphinha’s performance. The German coach has implemented a new tactical approach that favors the forward’s movement, allowing him to operate in different areas of the pitch and fully utilize his skill set.

  • More central positioning: Playing closer to the box, Raphinha has more freedom to finish plays.
  • Greater defensive contribution: The player has improved in tracking back and pressing opponents.
  • Better decision-making: Fewer errors in passing and shooting accuracy.

These tactical adjustments have been crucial in helping the Brazilian reach his best form since joining the Catalan club. Beyond becoming an attacking leader, he has shown maturity on the field, making himself indispensable in Flick’s strategy.

Key moments in the 2024/2025 season

Raphinha has been a standout performer in several crucial matches throughout the season. Some of his most remarkable performances have helped Barcelona remain competitive across all competitions.

  • August 31, 2024: Scored his first hat-trick for Barcelona in a 7-0 win over Real Valladolid.
  • October 23, 2024: Netted three goals in a 4-1 victory over Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
  • January 4, 2025: Scored one goal and provided an assist in a 4-0 win over Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
  • February 15, 2025: Scored the decisive goal against Atlético Madrid in a 2-1 win.

These performances reinforce the Brazilian’s importance to the squad and his ability to shine in high-stakes encounters. His consistency and impact in top-level matches further strengthen his case for the best player award.

Ballon d’Or contention and comparisons with competitors

Raphinha’s incredible form has drawn comparisons with other players in the Ballon d’Or race. While stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Erling Haaland are also strong contenders, the Brazilian has solid arguments to remain among the favorites.

  • Mbappé: Standout for Paris Saint-Germain but inconsistent in the Champions League.
  • Bellingham: Real Madrid midfielder with impressive stats but fewer goals and assists.
  • Haaland: Maintains high standards at Manchester City but with less creative influence.

If the Barcelona forward continues at his current pace in terms of goals and assists, his chances of securing a top spot in the Ballon d’Or rankings will significantly increase. Additionally, his involvement in multiple competitions enhances his global visibility.

Contribution to the Brazilian national team and upcoming challenges

Raphinha’s performances at Barcelona have earned him a spot as one of the key players in Brazil’s national team under coach Dorival Júnior. As the team prepares for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers, the forward’s experience and current form make him a vital asset.

  • Recent call-up: Selected for the matches against Colombia and Argentina.
  • Tactical importance: A versatile option for different attacking roles.
  • World Cup 2026 prospects: Expected to play a key role in Brazil’s journey to the tournament.

His performances in international fixtures will be crucial in cementing his status as one of the world’s best players this season. Consistently maintaining his high standards could define his impact at both club and national levels.

Expectations for the final stretch of the season

With Barcelona still competing in the main tournaments, the expectation is that Raphinha will continue to be one of the team’s leading figures. The final stretch of the season will be crucial in determining his future in the Ballon d’Or race and his status in world football.

  • Champions League: Barcelona faces Benfica aiming for a spot in the quarterfinals.
  • La Liga: The Catalan club leads the competition and seeks to maintain its advantage.
  • Copa del Rey: The team is in the semifinals, targeting another title this season.

Raphinha’s performances in the upcoming matches could be decisive in securing key trophies for Barcelona and further strengthening his place among football’s elite.



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