FC Barcelona has officially tied down one of their most explosive talents for the future, as Brazilian winger Raphael Dias Belloli, better known as Raphinha, has put pen to paper on a new contract that will keep him at the club until June 30, 2028.
The agreement was finalized on Thursday at the club’s headquarters, with president Joan Laporta, first vice-president Rafa Yuste, and sporting director Deco, Raphinha’s compatriot and mentor, all in attendance.
“I’ve always dreamed of wearing this jersey for the rest of my career,” Raphinha said after signing the deal. “Barcelona is not just a club to me – it’s home. This renewal is a promise to the fans that I’m here to give even more.”
A Blaugrana Journey That Keeps Growing
Since joining from Leeds United in July 2022, Raphinha has grown into a cornerstone of Barcelona’s attack. In his debut campaign, he wore the number 22 shirt and helped fire Barça to a La Liga triumph with 10 goals and 12 assists.
He followed that up in 2023/24 with a similarly impressive tally of 10 goals and 13 assists.
But it’s the current 2024/25 season where the Brazilian has truly taken flight. Under new manager Hansi Flick, Raphinha has become not only a mainstay in the starting XI but also a leader in the dressing room.
He now shares captaincy duties with Robert Lewandowski, Lamine Yamal, and Ferran Torres.
“He’s become a complete player under Flick,” said Deco. “Raphinha isn’t just scoring and assisting – he’s setting the tone with his work ethic, leadership, and consistency.”
Record-Breaking Form
Raphinha’s numbers this season are nothing short of remarkable. In 56 appearances across all competitions, the 28-year-old has netted 34 goals and delivered 25 assists, establishing himself as one of the most productive attackers in European football.
He has also been the most frequently used player by Flick this season – a testament to his fitness, discipline, and importance to the team.
“Every time I wear the Barça shirt, I play with my heart,” Raphinha said. “I know what this badge means, and I’ll always give everything for it – in training, in matches, every single day.”
Looking Ahead
As the season nears its end, FC Barcelona has moved swiftly to secure one of its brightest stars. Raphinha’s new contract signals the club’s intent to build around a dynamic, experienced core with eyes firmly on domestic and European success.
“He embodies the spirit of the club,” said Laporta. “We believe in him, and he believes in our project. With Raphinha on board, the future looks bright.”
With his extension secured and form at an all-time high, Raphinha’s commitment to the blaugrana cause is crystal clear: he’s here to stay – and he’s just getting started.
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