Barcelona manager Hansi Flick threw his support behind Raphinhe as a serious candidate for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award this year.
The Brazilian striker was in a starry form of this season, which strongly belonged to individual recognition, with such as Mohamed Salah, Vinicius Junior and Kylian Mbappe.
Raphinha, 28, was a key figure in the Barcelona campaign, scoring 22 goals and 11 assists in only 35 appearances so far at 2024-25.
His impressive performances launched the Catalan club to the top of La Liga, at the same time increasing their aspirations of the Champions League under Flick.
On the eve of the key Barcelona Circle of the Champions League of 16 second leg conflicts against Benfice, Flick was asked about Raphinha’s chances to ask Ballon d’Or.
“Raphinha for Ballon d’Or? He is a candidate, yes. Of course, if he succeeds well this season, he could have the opportunity,” he said.
“It always helps us a lot, and if you see the goals he has achieved, she shows you how hungry he is. You see, it’s good to see how focused he is. I’m pleased with his level.”
Barcelona showed its strength in a recent 1-0 victory over Benfica despite playing most of the match with ten men.
Truth to its form, Raphinha has reached a key goal, proven once again by the team’s value.
Flick added, “They have a great team. Bruno Lage does a great job and you can see his philosophy on the field. The best thing is that 100% focus on us and do not think about the first leg. They usually always press high. “
“They do it very well, they have won a lot of guest games. We have to focus on it. Everything is in positioning, good possession helps us a lot and in the attack and in defense. We want to do that.”
Before moving to Barcelona in a contract of £ 55 million, Raphinha was strongly associated with the Premier League clubs, especially Chelsea and Arsenal. Chelsea even reached an agreement with Leeds United, but the wing player decided to transfer to Spain.
Last summer, there were speculations about a potential return to England, and Manchester United was reportedly interested in acquiring his services.
However, he remained in Barcelona, where he continues to progress and is strongly the case for one of the most prestigious football individual honors.
