Every fan who’s been following FC Barcelona during the past few seasons knows how important Raphinha has been to the team. Temporarily losing him due to injuries often meant a decline in the team’s performance, and he became widely respected among the Culers. After the summer break, he has seemingly ascended to another level, exceeding expectations in a new position and noting an incredible start to the 2026/2027 season.
For a big part of his career, Raphinha played mostly as a right winger. His performance in that position earned him a move to Barcelona. However, when the young prodigy Lamine Yamal emerged, the Brazilian moved to the left wing, where he also thrived, cementing his reputation at the Catalan club.
Things were bound to change in the 2026/27 season, as before it started, Barcelona had lost their two strikers, Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski. The team tried to sign Julián Álvarez, but as the negotiations fell apart, they were left without a proper striker. Raphinha stepped in to fulfill the role, playing at the front of the field as a false nine. In the most recent game against Sevilla, he was used as a central striker, a role which seemed to suit him perfectly, given his impressive performance in the match.
Barcelona won all the games they have played in the 2026/27 season, and Raphinha played a big part in that success. He started all seven matches the team played in La Liga and scored 12 goals combined, including two hat-tricks: one against the aforementioned Sevilla and one against Racing Santander. He has also recorded three assists.
On top of that, Raphinha scored two goals in Barca’s first Champions League game of the season, bringing his total to 14 goals. With that, he set a new club record for the most goals scored after eight games. His average, close to scoring twice per match, would be impressive for anyone, even more so for a player in an unfamiliar position.
Raphinha’s performance has also earned him high praise from Barcelona’s coach, Hansi Flick. When asked about the player after the team’s most recent league game, he said:
“Raphinha has the dynamism, he has everything that fits the way we want to play (…) His level is extremely high. We know his quality, and I’m very happy. He’s great at scoring goals, but also without the ball.”
Recently, the sporting director for FC Barcelona has announced that Raphinha is close to signing a contract extension until 2030, furthering his position within the team. Flick expressed his agreement with the decision, saying:
“I think for the club it’s the best decision”
The coach went on to add that due to Raphinha’s deep connection with both the team and the Culers, he makes the perfect leader for Barcelona going forward. He also praised the Brazilian’s dynamic performance on the field, both with and without the ball, as well as his ability to adapt to playing as a nine.
Raphinha could not have dreamed of a better start to the season. If he stays at the level he is at right now, things are looking quite promising for him and for Barcelona as a whole. Beloved among the fans and highly respected by other players, he is carving a name for himself in the team’s hall of fame.
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