Barcelona’s star winger Raphinha has spoken candidly about the expectations placed on him since joining the club, reflecting on the criticism he faced and how he overcame it.
In a recent interview with ESPN Brazil, the Brazilian admitted that meeting Barcelona’s high standards has not been easy, but his determination and self-belief have carried him through.
Last season turned out to be Raphinha’s best yet, with an incredible 34 goals and 26 assists, contributing to 60 goals in just 57 matches.
Weight of the expectations
Raphinha’s performances silenced critics and solidified his place as one of Hansi Flick’s most important players.
Yet, the winger revealed that his early days at Camp Nou were far from smooth.
“Many people wanted me to leave from my first steps at Camp Nou, I can’t name them all.
“Maybe I wasn’t doing what they expected of me, but I always had a clear conscience about what I gave. I did everything I could,” Raphinha shared.
He added, “Because I wasn’t the player they expected, they thought I had no future at the club from my first season. It wasn’t just a feeling, it was something tangible and clear.”
Raphinha proved his worth
Despite the doubts surrounding him, Raphinha refused to be discouraged. He focused on his work, trusted Hansi Flick’s vision, and ignored the noise from those who questioned his future.
“Maybe they expected 30 goals a season, but that’s not my profile. I’m not a centre-forward.
“I am a player who helps a lot with effort, with a lot of dedication and work; that’s Raphinha. I will always give my best,” he explained.
His perseverance paid off remarkably. Raphinha not only stayed at Barcelona but became one of the most decisive figures in their extraordinary 2024/25 campaign.
His outstanding numbers earned him a contract renewal until 2028, cementing his role as a cornerstone of Flick’s long-term project.
Today, few at Barcelona doubt his importance. Once viewed as a player under pressure, Raphinha has evolved into a symbol of resilience and quality.
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