It has been reborn as an ace in the sale target. Raphinha (29, Barcelona) continues to perform at his best this season.
Raphinha has played in a total of 45 matches this season, including 28 league matches with 13 goals and 10 assists, recording 28 goals and 22 assists. In particular, his presence in the UEFA Champions League (UCL) is dazzling.
On the 10th, Raphinha recorded 1 goal and 2 assists in the home match against Borussia Dortmund in the first leg of the quarterfinals, leading Barcelona to a 4-0 victory.
Raphinha scored the first goal in the 25th minute of the first half and assisted Robert Lewandowski's additional goal in the 3rd minute of the second half. He also assisted Lamine Yamal's clinching goal in the 32nd minute of the second half with a 3-0 lead.
As a result, Raphinha has recorded 12 goals and 7 assists in this season's Champions League, moving to the top in both scoring and assists. He is the driving force behind Barcelona's success in both the league and the Champions League this season.
In particular, Raphinha has recorded a total of 19 attacking points (goals + assists), ranking 2nd for the most attacking points in a single season in the Champions League. He is tied with Lionel Messi (38, Inter Miami) who set the attacking point record (14 goals and 5 assists) in the 2011-2012 season.
Now Raphinha is aiming for Cristiano Ronaldo. Having already surpassed Neymar (10 goals and 6 assists), Raphinha has become the Brazilian player with the most attacking points in Champions League history, getting within 3 points of Ronaldo's record of 22 attacking points (17 goals and 5 assists) set in the 2013-2014 season.
If Raphinha records a goal or assist in the second leg against Dortmund on the 16th in Germany, he will surpass Messi. At the same time, he will get closer to Ronaldo's record. If he performs like he did in the first leg, he will match Ronaldo's record in one go.
Even if Raphinha remains silent in the match against Dortmund, Barcelona can challenge the record again if they reach the semifinals. Given the current momentum, it is highly likely that he will easily surpass Ronaldo's record.
For Raphinha, who has often been targeted for sale every time the transfer market opens, this season is unforgettable. He left Leeds United and joined Barcelona in the summer of 2022.
Raphinha, who has always shouted to join his dream club. However, the reality was not easy. In his first season, he played 50 matches, scoring 10 goals and providing 12 assists, but he was always named among the club's sale targets.
Raphinha also performed well in the 2023-2024 season with 10 goals and 13 assists in 37 matches. He has dedicated himself as a winger and attacking midfielder. Nonetheless, he has not been favored by the club.
Raphinha began to shine with the appointment of coach Hansi Flick. He has established himself firmly as a winger and attacking midfielder under Flick, showcasing his presence.
Based on his current performances alone, Raphinha is a strong candidate for the Ballon d'Or. If his team, Barcelona, wins La Liga, the Champions League, and the Copa del Rey, his chances of winning the Ballon d'Or will greatly increase.
Raphinha is focusing on helping his teammates rather than relying on personal records. This means he is becoming a driving force in leading the entire team to success. His dedicated play is playing a crucial role in Barcelona's pursuit of the treble this season.
[OSEN]