Raphinha has been one of the most expensive signings made by FC Barcelona in the last few years. The Catalans paid €57 million fixed and another €7 million in variables to Leeds United to get the Brazilian in 2022.
The player himself also wanted to succeed at Barcelona as he rejected an irresistible offer from Chelsea to join the Blaugranes.
His first year at Barcelona was not too bad, and he frequently showed his quality on the pitch. In 26 La Liga matches, the Brazilian scored seven goals and gave seven assists while scoring another goal and giving another assist in two UEFA Europa League matches.
However, as SPORT has noted, the Brazilian’s numbers this season are highly disappointing. Raphinha has got only two goals and five assists to his name in fifteen games, which is too low an output from a starting winger at Barcelona.
With the departure of Ousmane Dembele in the last summer transfer window, Raphinha is now the clear starter for Xavi on the right wing. However, he is yet to impress in this role of greater responsibility.
The Brazilian was unfortunate to suffer a hamstring injury in the starting weeks of this season. He has been gradually getting back to full fitness but has been very inconsistent in his performances up to now.
Xavi still has a lot of faith in the winger, especially because he showed he can play at a high level during his time in the Premier League. He racked up impressive numbers with Leeds United, and Barcelona will be hoping he can recover that same form this season, and end up playing a leading role in the upfront.
In the last summer transfer window, it was not sure whether the Brazilian’s future lies at the club. Premier League sides, especially Newcastle United, were interested in him, and clubs from Saudi Arabia, including Al-Hilal, also made approaches for him.
However, Deco ruled out his departure after Ousmane Dembele’s exit and also believed the winger deserved an opportunity to succeed at Barcelona. Now, Manchester United are again asking Barcelona for a swap involving Raphinha and Jadon Sancho, but the Brazilian does not want to leave.
If he does not improve his numbers soon, Barcelona will be forced to look for a way out for him in January, as the club is surely going to need some sales for economic reasons.
